This machine is designed to peel or smooth the skin of cured hams and similar products. The machine, which features a blade unit activated by a movable handle and a balancing device, enables the operator to carry out the task quickly and safely. In addition to a self-sharpening system, the rotating blade head is equipped with a device for adjusting the size of the selected cut. This ensures that each “pass” is the same thickness, regardless of the pressure exerted on the blade, and especially in order to minimize any reduction in weight.