Tampers

[milowebailey]

The problem with having more than one espresso machine is now I need a better tamper for the cabin.  That lame plastic one that comes with the Gaggias just isn't cutting it.

What tamper should I buy?

convex
concave
flat
stainless
wood
ribbed

What is the difference and what are the benefits of each?

and do I need a tamper tote

[Pyment]

Wacker Vibroplate Tamper
http://www.rentaldepot.com/wacker_vibroplate_tamper.html

[milowebailey]

Wacker Vibroplate Tamper
http://www.rentaldepot.com/wacker_vibroplate_tamper.html

Benefits please!

[J.Jirehs Roaster]

Wacker Vibroplate Tamper
http://www.rentaldepot.com/wacker_vibroplate_tamper.html

I need one of those for projects in my back yard for a day (and a couple yards of stone)

[BoldJava]

What tamper should I buy?

convex
concave
flat
stainless
wood
ribbed

Where is 'pretty?'  My only criterion is 'eye candy.' That's sufficient.

B|Java

[peter]

What tamper should I buy?

convex
concave
flat
stainless
wood
ribbed

Where is 'pretty?'  My only criterion is 'eye candy.' That's sufficient.

B|Java

That's the only reason he keeps me around.

[Pyment]

how about a group buy on Gorilla Tampers?

http://gorillatampers.com/

we could offer "pretty peter" as a spokesmodel for them.

[John F]

My $0.02...

Get a good tamper of either shape and you will build your routine around it.

Having multiple machines, baskets and tampers I'm not so sure about so I could also see a case for getting what you are used to at home.

But I started out with a convex Deluxe Lava and over time have switched over to a generic flat SS. My main reason for switching was the feel in my hand and it has slightly more heft. It's the little things ya know?

Anyway, I saw quality is paramount and the shape of slightly convex or flat isn't going to be as important a consideration  once you build 100 shots with it.

[Dante]

My $0.02...

Get a good tamper of either shape and you will build your routine around it.

Having multiple machines, baskets and tampers I'm not so sure about so I could also see a case for getting what you are used to at home.

But I started out with a convex Deluxe Lava and over time have switched over to a generic flat SS. My main reason for switching was the feel in my hand and it has slightly more heft. It's the little things ya know?

Anyway, I saw quality is paramount and the shape of slightly convex or flat isn't going to be as important a consideration  once you build 100 shots with it.

+1.

I started with s spring loaded Espro to train with, then went on a buying spree of tampers - Thor tamper in olive wood, Bumper concave, Reg Barber SS/aluminum flat tamper, another RB wood handle with a hybrid base - flat center with angled edges, and a generic hefty SS flat one from Amazon. Like John, I prefer the heft of the generic one and use it for almost all my espresso needs.

[John F]

http://www.espressoaccents.com/custom.html

I don't think the one with the long handle is a good idea but some of the other links look spiffy. 

[mp]

Larry ... if you have a local store that stocks them why not check them out in person.  Feel them all and go with the one that feels the most comfortable in your hand.

My 2 cents.

 

[milowebailey]

Larry ... if you have a local store that stocks them why not check them out in person.  Feel them all and go with the one that feels the most comfortable in your hand.

My 2 cents.

 

I think there are a few stores in Seattle.  I do have a generic rosewood handled stainless for home, but always wondered about other types and thoughts on them.

Is this really true?

Serrated face creates more surface area for the water to pass through the coffee, prevent channeling.

I do like the fact that those are made in the USA... and they have the bling factor

[John F]

Serrated face creates more surface area for the water to pass through the coffee, prevent channeling.

Only one way to find out but I doubt it.

As best I know channeling is not caused by lack of surface area and even if it was I don't think tiny ridges are going to help even if that does create a meaningful increase in surface area.

If anything it might produce an odd/uneven surface that causes other things to happen.

But that is just a hunch.

[stevieboy9]

If I had the disposable income, Cannonfodder at HB is the man I'd go to for custom espresso accessories.  Have a look at some of his creations.http://www.home-barista.com/marketplace/custom-wood-for-your-espresso-machine-t10642.html

Steve, in Ft. Worth.

What tamper should I buy?

convex
concave
flat
stainless
wood
ribbed

Where is 'pretty?'  My only criterion is 'eye candy.' That's sufficient.

B|Java

[mp]

Certainly candy for the eyes.

If I'm not mistaken B|WoodConverter had his handles redone perhaps by him.