Re-zeroed again. I could hear faint / very slight burrs chirping at 0.5 past Zero and more at -1.0, which were very similar to factory configured. The optimum burrs position had changed, although it was a toss up between the factory and the new.
I pulled a shot of Foundry’s Costa Rica setting at 3 on the Duo (before zeroing). Given their roast degree, it is more likely a medium light. The Costa Ricans coffee typically require a finer grind. This gave me 12-13s shot for 1:2.5. The coffee was ok to drink.
Re-zeroing did not change the shot time at 3 Mark on the Duo. I had then set to 0.5 on the Duo and pulled a shot. It did not choke the machine. The shot lasted for 25s for 1:2.5.
Of the 4 bags, 3 of them gave shot times between 20 and 31s for 1:2.5. I can’t believe Cartwheel and Foundry coffee were stale. All the 3 are freshly roasted, rested for 2 weeks, vac-ed and stored before opening. The Foundry coffee this morning was very nice.
So, I can’t help think something is not right here. It does concern me for sure. I have not heard from Niche yet since the 22nd. This is unlike them as they are extremely good in their response. I am sure they will come back with their observations / advise.
https://foundrycoffeeroasters.com/collections/coffee-beans/products/el-perezoso-costa-rica?variant=47391249531161
Edit:
I would vac store Foundry to compare the 0.5 grind size with Dave’s Duo.