What it Does:
The mechanism behind the gadget is very simple. The device is similar to a single, handheld hole punch. There is a small bowl on one side with a hole in the bottom that is large enough to allow the pit to pass through. You place the cherry or olive in the bowl and push through it with the rod on the other side. I own a simple handheld model that requires me to position each piece of fruit before squeezing. There are also models for higher volume kitchens that allow you to load multiple cherries or olives at one time. But for home kitchen purposes, the handheld model is sufficient.
Problem It Solves:
Before I discovered it, I would spend a lot of time each spring in frustration, trying to pry the pits from cherries to make fresh pies or strudels. I also enjoy making olive tapenade as an appetizer, and found it even more difficult to free the pits from olives than from cherries.
Why I Love It:
Since the discovery of my cherry pitter, I no longer sweat over these tasks.
Best Kitchen Uses:
You'll want one of these gadgets if you enjoy making recipes using fresh cherries or olives that don't come out of a can. 
