I've read through a couple of the manual grinder threads and used the search function but couldn't discern what I was looking for. I was considering going with the Kyocera CM-45 but wanted to see if anyone had any insight for a more suitable grinder.

I want a manual grinder to use on trips (camping, out of country, etc), that would be safe to take on flights since I don't check in bags, and will be using almost solely with the clever coffee dripper from Sweet Marias.

Any thoughts? Should I just go with the Kyocera?

I received a Hario Slim as a gift for Christmas. We just took our first trip together—a weeklong trip to China. I was satisfied with its more than serviceable duty and very small footprint. But knowing what I do now, I'd probably have put the Orphan Espresso modified Kyocera on my holiday wish list instead:

http://www.orphanespresso.com/OE-PFP-Ha..._3325.html

While the centering mechanism that Orphan Espresso adds is undoubtedly more essential for a press technique, I also like to reduce the amount of fines in my pour-over preparation. A lower burr axle strap is a feature that I suspect is borrowed from the old Peugeot hand grinders, which are reportedly the best grinders for French Press. In my experience these Peugeots are also excellent pour-over coffee grinders.

Basically, because you want a larger grind size for pour-over technique, I think you can benefit from a grinder with two bearings for the inner burr axle. The OE mod to the Kyocera adds that second bearing.

As far as flight-safe grinders, I've seen this topic come up before on forums and mailing lists and always heard good reports regarding carrying on a hand grinder, but it always helps to have some coffee with it so you can explain what it's for.

I bought the Kyocera CM-45 CF as my first espresso grinder, which I eventually replaced with a Vario. I've also used it camping and traveling and it now is part of a MyPressi Twist espresso case where it continues to serve.

You may want to read my review of my experiences with the Kyocera CM-45 CF here. Overall, I'm satisfied with the grind quality, but there's durability concerns with this and other small grinders you should be aware of.

I recently scored a Hario Slim grinder new-in-box at a thrift store for $5. I took it to work and set it for pour-over grind (Aeropress with Disk or Clever Coffee Dripper) and keep the Kyocera dialed in for espresso. For the difference in price (new), you may want to consider one of the Hario's over the Kyocera CM-45 CF, or if you really want to go small, I've heard that the Porlex which shares the burr set of the Kyocera CM-45 CF can fit inside the small plunger of the Aeropress.

I've heard that the Porlex which shares the burr set of the Kyocera CM-45 CF can fit inside the small plunger of the Aeropress.

That's a fantastic idea for when one has to go really small and compact!

Would I be right in assuming that is the new compact Porlex only or the "older" taller one as well?

It's the normal porlex that fits in the aeropress, not the smaller one, it has a bit that sticks out on the side to hold the handle that stops it going in. You have to be careful putting it in though, it's a snug fit and if you create a vacuum it can bit a right pain getting it out. It does stick out the end so it's not 100% aeropress sized.

Thanks Yakster et al, I skimmed through that thread but re-read it more carefully after this and the link to the OE-PFP, the modified Kyocera CM-50. I just purchased that =) I hope I don't get harassed at the airport and will of course have coffee (and will demonstrate if so they desire) with me.

Eastsideloco wrote:http://www.orphanespresso.com/OE-PFP-Ha..._3325.html

Thanks for the link! It helps a lot especially when trying to read through all the options with a limited time frame.

Thanks, Kevin. May have to investigate that for camping.

Cheers

Mike

Mike, I'll bring my porlex and aeropress on the 9th so you can play with them.

I'd only add that the KYOCERA CM-50 does a fantastic job with French Press and Moka pot grinds. I have not used it for drip because we don't do that. But is designed to do well for grinds more coarse than espresso, and there is a good reason for having the stabilizer bar used to accomplish that. The CM-50 is a very practical mod. FWIW.

It seems Union have a pic of a porlex in an aeropress here http://www.unionroasted.com/subscriptions-gifts/ultimate-coffee-travel-pack.html.