kupe wrote:Among all these options, I would still prefer my PeDe hand grinder from Orphan espresso. Stepless adjustment, incredible grind quality, and no grind retention issues to deal with. Only takes 60 seconds and some effort to grind around 16 grams. They don't have any on sale right now, unfortunately.

Well said - I can't say enough about the PeDe box mills I've used. But, as in my prior post, there is a time factor to consider.

If the OP does wish to go the old hand grinder route, I would be glad to provide a few pointers for purchasing one from ebay. When doing so there is always a risk that it will not perform well for espresso, so ask here or elsewhere first!

PC

peacecup wrote:Well said - I can't say enough about the PeDe box mills I've used. But, as in my prior post, there is a time factor to consider

The old Lenhartz I got from Orphan Espresso is also a very fine grinder, certainly superior to the Kyocera, though the Kyocera is easier for dosing straight into the portafilter.

On the time factor front, if you mainly use your espresso machine first thing in the morning and don't leave it on all night, I can;t really see the problem, you just grind yourself into wakefulness as the machine heats up It may take longer to grind the beans, but the time you wait for your first shot is the same. And whereas the Kyocera can only hold a double, the drawers in the old grinders will hold more...

Random thoughts, really, but hopefully useful.

Cheers

Mike

+1 for Orphan Espresso grinder. I got really lucky (checked their site multiple times a day) and bought a KYM wall mounted hand grinder, well over a year ago. In less than 30 seconds I have 16 grams of grinds ready to go into my Pavoni. I use a plastic funnel to dose into my large basket can't-be-original because I can stuff 18g in there (on a scale, I might add).

-phillip