“This thing rocks. Is it worth $200? That’s more subjective but I think so! So consistent, and level, basically takes tamping out of the equation as a changing variable.
Espresso Parts was amazing and shipped this super quick. I actually received the wrong size at first (58.35 instead of 58.5) but EP resolved this and had a new one out express delivery by the end of the day. Just top notch service. I’ve already recommended them and will certainly be buying from them again in the future!!”
“This seems to take one variable out of the "dose, level, tamp" equation that helps to achieve consistent extraction with your espresso machine. The Force Tamp is well made, and seems to apply a consistent pressure with every puck it compresses. I've used it for a week now, and I see fewer "puck" defects, more consistent extraction times, and consistently good espresso flavour. It was delivered by Espresso Parts via USPS, and was tracked across the US border into Canada, providing accurate delivery notice. It took about a week all considered, which is better than I expected. I'm very pleased with the purchase and the delivery service.”
“The functionality of this tamper is amazing. Because I make so few espressos, something that helps my puck prep consistency really increases my enjoyment of pulling great shots. I deducted a star because the top of the handle’s plastic threads aren’t that great. I also will warn that this tamper requires thorough cleaning as grounds get in between the leveling plate and the back side of the tamping surface.
But it is completely worth it.”
“Stop reading if you think spending this much on a tamper is lunacy. But if you're considering purchasing this, you're probably deep in the rabbit hole of espresso and costs associated to this hobby (addiction). I'm only here to give my opinion on the device's function and my impression as a user. Let's talk about the quality and machining of the tamper. In a few words, it's precise. Its lines are sharp and the tamper feels very high quality - not heavy, not light. Some others I've used that give me this feel: Pullman and PUSH tampers. Unlike other calibrated/spring tampers, this device 'punches' the grounds down after a certain depth is reached when pushing down on it. Supposedly it is calibrated @22 pounds from factory. If you want heavier then adjustments are made by twisting off the wood knob and turning the adjustment 'screw' clockwise (they even supply a thin washer underneath the the knob for this action). For every full turn clockwise, you add 10 pounds of force onto the puck. Once the puck is tamped after the 'punch', I take a brush and dust the grounds underneath the housing and off I go. The manufacturer recommends not washing the device as grounds could stick in crevices so I'll just listen to them. I'll take it apart completely every quarter just to do a thorough cleaning as I'm curious to see how dirty it can get after some time. I'll have to say that this may be my end game for tampers (hopefully). Using it is very satisfying especially with the unique action. I highly recommend it if you were curious!”