Mandoline safeguards

Zucchini shaved thin enough for carpaccio, radishes sliced to the point of translucence, wisps of fennel in an orange, and olive salad all make you look like a pro — for which a mandoline is key. The problem with this hand-held slicing tool is your fingers. For the overly enthusiastic, finger-protectors are essential. Fancier mandolines come with a plastic guard to hold vegetables and protect hands. Many chefs swear by double-latex gloves; another option is high-quality cut-resistant gloves. Get the results without the scars. Mandolines with guards at China Fair, 2100 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 617-864-3050, 70 Needham St., Newton Highlands, 617-332-1250, or www.chinafairinc.com; Kitchen Outfitters, Acton Woods Plaza, 342 Great Road, Acton, 978-263-1955, www.kitchen-outfitters.com; Tags Hardware, 29 White St., Porter Square Shopping Center, Cambridge, 617-868-7711, www.tagshardware.com. Safety gloves available at KitchenWares by Blackstones, 215 Newbury St., Boston, 857-366-4237.