Jcheney How is the user experience? Are grind times quick? How hard are you grinding (and can us old and out-of-shape guys do it)? Are you seasoning with lighter roasts or is this all for standard darks for now? Does the look and feel make you happy, and do they feel like they match the cost?
Re user experience: well, it’s certainly not about “work flow”. If you buy a big hand grinder like this you don’t do it for work flow. But I know that was not your question but I wanted to point that out so you have context for my answer which is that the experience is enjoyable and because I’m working with a functional piece of art (to steal DaveC’s descpriton of the Strietman) and everything from the brass inlay to the hand crafter zebrano all-timbeer basket is beautifully designed and made. It is a sensual experience and that means form is marginally prioritised over function e.g. transferring grinds from the timber basket to the portafilter basket is fiddly, but it’s worth it.
Grind times are quick and easy. 18g in 40 seconds at the equivalent of 133RPM which is interesting because my EG-1 does the same 18g in 35 seconds at 500RPM. Can anyone explain that?
Old and out of shape people like me can grind easily thanks to the three gear system. One gear drives a second gear which drives a third geat. Honestly, I was VERY suprised at how easy it it even a super light roast (Cinnamon).
Worth every cent and loving it!