Abstract: A slitting apparatus mountable to a web handling apparatus, for slitting a thin web of a first width into plural ribbons each of width less than the first width. The slitting apparatus may comprise at least one enclosed motorized rotatable blade mounted on a rotatable shaft and a stationary base which is screw mountable to the web handling apparatus. The blade is movable between a slitting position for slitting operations and a service position spaced away from the slitting position, for blade replacement. A step-down gearset reduces blade rotational speed from the motor speed. A manual shifting element comprising a manual lever and a cam effects change between the slitting and service positions. The blade may be entirely ceramic or ceramic coated. A roller shaft may be located proximate the blades to maintain tension on the web and to obstruct direct access to the blades for safety purposes.