With technology always developing, the days of being stuck with simple cubes for ice are over. Today you can get ice in a wide variety of shapes, textures, and thicknesses. One type of ice that is commonly overlooked is bullet ice cubes. In short, this type of ice are bullet-shaped ice cubes that are used for frozen drinks.
Let’s look at this type of ice and how you can make it right at home.
What are Bullet Ice Cubes?
As the name states, this type of ice features a rounded tip and hollow center that looks much like a bullet. This usually comes in three different sizes and is quick to make.
It is enjoyed for its versatility and easy creation. Bullet ice cubes are commonly made by portable ice bullet machines that use cooling prongs to freeze water and form ice cubes. It is also quick to make which is convenient for large crowds.
This type of ice has a hollow middle and is quite hard. It has a longer melting time than sonic ice or crushed ice. It will keep drinks cool for quite some time compared to other types of ice.
One downfall of this ice is that it is not good for chewing. Bullet ice cubes are too large and hard to be easily chewed when first created. You may be able to chew bullet ice after some melting but it is not designed for this purpose.
If you are looking to fill a cooler or other container with ice that will keep several items cool, then this ice is a great option.
How Can I Create Bullet Ice Cubes?
Most standard design portable ice makers make some variation of bullet ice. This is because it is easy to make quickly and in large quantities.
It is created when a portable ice maker lowers cooling prongs into trays of water. The water freezes around the prongs and thickens into ice cubes over time.
When the machine reaches the end of its cooling time, the prongs heat just enough to slip the ice-free into the storage tray.
You can have fresh, ready to use ice by purchasing an ice bullet machine that creates this kind of ice for you without any special hookups or hassle. One perk, in the realm of home ice machines, these machines are a very affordable option.
The Best Ice Making Appliances
Do you want to enjoy fresh bullet ice at home? Check out ice makers reviews to know your options. Meanwhile, here are some of the best appliances on the market.
Luma Comfort IM200SS
While almost all bullet ice machines create ice through the same process, the features of each machine vary and make some machines stand above the rest.
This countertop ice maker specializes in the creation of very clear ice. When clear ice is used in carbonated drinks they do not fizz and go flat as quickly as when frosted ice is used.
This machine also creates larger batches of ice at one time than many other models but does take a bit longer than the competition.
Magic Chef MCIM22
If portability and small size is a priority, it is hard to beat this simple ice maker machine. This machine is a quick producer in a small package and includes an ice basket and ice scoop.
This machine doesn’t come with a lot of bells and whistles but has proven itself to be dependable and easy to use in a wide variety of environments. It is also priced to sell when compared to other ice machines.
A quick machine that is easy to take anywhere we might need ice? That’s a win in our book.
Frigidaire EFIC103 26-Pound Freestanding Ice Machine
Another quick machine that makes nine cubes at a time, this machine is a little heftier than the one above and includes a durable and oversized ice bucket.
This machine lets you customize the thickness of your bullet ice cubes, choosing between three different sizes to fit your drink.
Reviewers of this countertop ice maker loved the thickness of the ice because it meant a little bit of ice went a long way in filling and chilling a drinking glass.
Is an Ice Bullet Machine Right For Me?
Nowadays, there are so many choices when it comes to ice, it’s easy to get confused about what type of ice to use at home.
If you are looking for small, fine, chewable ice then bullet ice cubes may not be your best bet. Take a look at a nugget ice maker or a simple ice machine that produces tiny ice cubes instead.
This is great for someone who is wanting to try out their first home ice machine. It is a great ice choice for anyone wanting to buy a quality machine on a budget.
Bullet ice cubes can chill any kind of beverage and is a great ice for when you need to create a large amount of ice in a small amount of time.
If you are just getting your first taste of home made ice and want to be able to serve cold drinks fast, then countertop ice makers that make bullet shaped ice cubes are a great option for you. Check out various ice makers reviews to find out which machine works best for you.