Keep this in mind just in case you don't like the points you purchased.... 2/3 of beef selected for corning is somewhat irregular, maybe a slight mis-cut or heavier in fat, or an unusual taper. In addition, this time of the year producers ramp up their corned beef production, so what might get ground in August might get corned in January and February. Also, if you see a new name brand, like Fred and Barney's Corned Beef, on sale.... chances are they started with cheaper cuts, and these may be very fatty. Every year I see posts from folks that are really disappointed in the "on sale" corned beef products.
What I'm getting at is this.... if you stick to a name brand you generally get better quality.. Also you know what their brine is like, so it makes it easier to determine the soaking time you like best. For years my favorite brand is Grobbels from Sam's club. they have been in business for 100+ years. The packages marked flat often have a section of point on them, the trimming is good and the thickness is very uniform. Their points are good size and are not loaded with kernels of fat you have to cut out. Unfortunately, they don't go on sale. Other name brands we know (and that are around all year long) do go on sale, some before and after this weekend.
As far as slicers go, take a look at Victorinox Forschner Granton Edge Wide Slicing Knife. I think mine is 12" or 14". These are a great value and you can find them on sale for around $60 online.
