This is the experience that solved my problems with scoring/getting those ears on my loaves.

There's lots of good info in this site about when, where, why and how to score; you can read it all just like I did.

But if that doesn't do the trick, here's what made my score something to roar about:

1. Double-sided razor blades, still available in a easy to handle cartridge at some pharmacies.

2. Break them in half lengthwise - now you have twice as many.

3. Employ them easily, safely, by hand. SCORE!

ROAR!!!

This is not a big deal, but it is mildly annoying.

When I finish making a bread, I hold the Bread Pan upside down and shake the Bread out.  99% of the time,  the Blade is embedded in the bottom of the bread.  I have to wait a minute for the Bread to cool down, then cut it out with a knife.

Is this common?

Is there some way to avoid this?

Thanks

I recently replaced my old Breadman [12 years of steady use!] with a new mini Zo. I love this new breadmaker, but I have trouble removing the kneading blade from the shaft after I am done baking a loaf. Does anyone have any suggestions for me? I am worried about scratching the non-stick surface of the pan as that is the only reason I had to finally replace the old breadman - the final straw came when I had to pry an Easter loaf from the pan in pieces.  I wonder if it is important to remove it at all, but don't like the idea that I can't clean the pan properly.

Thanks for any help!