This is one of the most powerful ice shavers in the world. Features a 3/4 HP motor. A "V Belt" pulley reduces the motor speed down to about 350 RPM. The large three-blade shaver head planes snow off of the larger block and delivers it from the chute at the lower right-hand corner of the body. To operate, put a 6 to 12 lb. block of clear ice into the ice block compartment. The front door has a "safety switch" to protect the operator until the cast aluminum door is safely locked in the closed position! The heavy-duty lever on the left-hand side allows the operator to ratchet the handle to apply pressure. The more pressure, the coarser the ice -- light pressure provides a finer snow. The Model #1087 is shipped complete with the catch basin and the 8 oz. Sno-Kone® Dipper -- the right size for producing a full cup of snow.