I see there's a VST tamper. I haven't read about it here, maybe I missed it. Has anyone tried it?

mitch236 wrote:I haven't read about it here, maybe I missed it.

Not specifically about VST's rendition of a tamper, but Which tamper for the 18g VST filter basket discusses custom-sized pistons for VST baskets.

I read Andy's report of tampers and as a good HB student looking for any edge, I bought a new Reg Barber base for my tamper! With all the hubbub surrounding VST products, I was surprised not to see any talk about this here!

169$?

http://store.vstapps.com/products/vst-barista-tamper

I felt bad for not being able to afford a RB. I think I'll stick to trolling eBay for "rosewood" tampers.

mitch236 wrote:I see there's a VST tamper. I haven't read about it here, maybe I missed it. Has anyone tried it?

I have one. Yet another tamper to add to my ever-growing collection.

The fit of the VST tamper in VST baskets is, as you would expect, excellent. The adjustable handle is quite nice, too. The feel is very good for my hand. The tamper is beautiful as well.

Personally, I don't believe that the taste of the shot will be any different if I use a 58mm tamper or a 58.34mm tamper. The larger base leaves less coffee on the sides of the basket, which is aesthetically pleasing, and it probably makes it slightly harder for me to tamp off-level. Other than that, I got the tamper because like the look. I'm keeping it because I really like the feel.

I'm right with you Dick. I actually ended up ordering one from Pullman! I don't fully understand my affinity towards tampers since I already have a good one. Maybe because one is most intimate with the tamper? Anyway I have a growing collection too!! They sit along my collection of unused cups!!!

Some call them "espresso bling". The Pullman certainly is that.

Another favorite of mine is a Reg Barber with the short maple handle. Looks and feels great, but somewhat easier to cant the puck than a taller handle.

It's amazing how much attention we can give to one of the least important components of the espresso-making process.

The RB 58.4mm is excellent as you'd expect, but with the adjustable handle and the deeply inlayed rubber cushioning for the fingertips, plus the exceptionally well polished base, the VST/Pullman has become my daily go-to tamper. Some other folks on this site were already very impressed with the Pullman tampers, but with the VST connection you can get them a lot faster now, and without the usual delays and overseas shipping and customs hassles.

Is there any difference between these and the stock standard pullman barista tampers? Aside from the VST etching of course.