Oster 4291 Beehive blender Red Metallic

Comment: This model was a model carried by Walmart in late 2008 and possibly early 2007. It was bought to replace an old Hamilton Beach model that bit the dust.

The unit is very heavy, and unlike current Walmart models of Oster Blenders, it has an actual metal housing. The lever-style switch feels solid too--in contrast to the current crop of flimsy dial type switches used for multiple speeds on the newer models. The blender is very attractive and looks great on the counter--something I am sure the ladies will appreciate.

Looks aside, though, this is a manly blender! It has a 600W motor (most current models feature a 500W motor--even the professional series.) and a square metal drive shaft (way that than the plastic and rubber most blenders have.) In only plastic piece on the thing is the silver collar that helps hold the mixing jar in place.

It easily powers through frozen fruit and ice--its' chief duty is to make smoothies. The two speeds are all you really need for this type of duty--though some may complain you need more speeds--they just haven't figured out how pulse and on/off work.

At this price this blender is a steal--the current model 4292 can only be found a few places at a cost of nearly 100 dollars! There appears to be little difference between the two aside from color, but I've yet to see one in person.

If you're looking for a great blender at great price, this one can't be beat. I'd confidently pit it against 100 dollar+ blenders from Kitchenaid and Cuisnart.

P.S. Be careful of the blades--unlike most blenders they are sharp!