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Espro Calibrated Tamper

Espro Calibrated Tamper

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Store Address:	Availability:
6911 216th Street SW,Suite A Lynnwood, Washington, 98036 Phone: 425-673-2706
10692 NE 8th ST Bellevue, Washington, 98004 Phone: 425-451-7292
26 NW 23rd PL Portland, Oregon, 97210 Phone: 503-224-1415

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$99.95

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Product Description

It's Tamp-alicious! The Espro Calibrated Tamper takes the frustration out of what is normally a finicky trial and error process. This super smart tamper will give you just the right amount of pressure needed to pull shots like a pro. Espro's must-have tamper is calibrated to click at 30 pounds of pressure and measures at 53mm or 58mm in flat or convex styles. Try it and you will praise its tamp-alicious-ness too!

How the Espro Calibrated Tamper Works

Fill your portafilter with your favorite grind
Give it a good approximate 30-pound tamp as evenly as possible
Lightly knock the side of the portafilter to shake any loose grinds
Give it another light tamp to push those grinds into place

How Does it Compare?	The calibrated tamper helps ensure a consistent tamp pressure. Variation in tamping force will no longer affect espresso shot quality.
Tips and Tricks	Subtle, but satisfying click when you reach maximum pressure will not disrupt tamped grounds.

Additional Information

Material	Stainless Steel
Manufacturer	Espro

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Does the base unscrew? I've got a 40mm VST tamp I'd like to use with one of these, but I have to make sure the threads are the same.

Thanx for a great site!

Rich G on May 4, 2013

Best Answer: I'm sorry, but I don't know if the tamper unscrews. And I don't want to try it for fear of goofing up my tamper. But my guess is that it doesn't. Their website offers tampers in various widths. Sorry I couldn't help. It is a great tamper.

Reply · Report · Britt L on May 6, 2013

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I am 99.5% certain it does not unscrew without impacting the actual mechanism that regulates the tamp pressure. In fact on visual examination I don't see that it unscrews at all.

Reply (1) · Report · Jeffrey G on May 6, 2013

No. I couldn't get mine to unscrew. We love this tamper though. Well worth the extra money!

Reply · Report · Christina D on May 6, 2013

I don't believe so. I gave a try on mine without forcing it and it did not budge.

Reply · Report · Romain N on May 6, 2013

Just going to echo Jeffrey and Britt. Put a little force on mine (not much) and had no sense that it was going to budge. More than anything though, it just *looks* like the mechanism and handle are an integrated system.

I do appreciate mine. Much as I would like to imagine I would develop a feel for a consistent tamp, I don't think I would. Me and finesse? Not well acquainted.

Reply · Report · KCat K on May 12, 2013

Rich- I purchased this tamper December 2012- it's fabulous, easy to handle, feels good in your hand- not too big, easy to use, perfect tamp every time.
Base doesn't not unscrew, not that I can tell- tried but it doesn't unscrew

Reply · Report · Rosa H on May 7, 2013

If it does it is not obvious, and I am fearful it may alter the calibration. I would call the manufacturer. Good luck.

Reply · Report · TIMOTHY H on May 7, 2013

The base on the one I purchased is one piece and does NOT detach

Reply · Report · Steve C on May 6, 2013

Is it possible to case the tamper base?

Robert S on Dec 8, 2014

Best Answer: My apologies. I have no idea what "case the tamper base" means. But I can tell you that I am using the tamper successfully. One variable that I no longer have to worry about.

Reply · Report · Britt L on Dec 9, 2014

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I'm not sure I understand the question. Sorry!

Reply (1) · Report · Lalita M on Dec 10, 2014

Oops, sorry! I meant is it possible to change the tamper base? From flat to convex for example.

Robert S on Dec 10, 2014
Reply (2)

I imagine that it is probably *possible* but I have not tried to take it off. I imagine it is probably glued on in some fashion, making it difficult to change out. Are you wanting to change it because you have a different sized portafilter?

Lalita M on Dec 11, 2014
Reply (1)

Unfortunately, it is not possible to change out the base for a different size or style of base. Sorry!

Stephanie AStaff on Dec 15, 2014
Reply

Convex or flat?!

Dont understand what difference it will produce.

A shopper on Dec 21, 2012

Best Answer: There are some machines that have a screen or screw which can press into the top of the surface of the puck, and so a convex tamper is helpful to obtain a clean puck. More testing for tamper base types can be found at the link below:

http://blog.seattlecoffeegear.com/2010/09/16/brew-tips-tamper-base-testing/

Reply · Report · Teri KStaff on Dec 28, 2012

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The most talked about difference, by the way, has to do with the convex tamper being able to "press' the grind against the side walls of the portafilter so as to avoid gaps. Using a flat tamper improperly (such as tapping the portafilter too hard after the tamp), can result in the puck pulling away from the side, and channeling in the pull. However, with practice, both flat and convex should produce a great result.

Reply · Report · Brohne L on Dec 28, 2012

There seem to be lot of schools when it comes to the tamper base. Before I go on an purchase my flat-based version, i tried to find what differences and benefits one has over the other and couldn't find a convincing answer or opinion.

So i decided to go with the standard flat-based version, and i'm quite happy with the tamp quality and consistency of it.

Reply · Report · Ammar M on Dec 31, 2012

In theory, a convex tamper will reduce the likelihood of channeling around the edge of the puck by compacting the coffee in a way that makes it slightly thicker near the edge and thinner in the middle. In most polls, it seems people prefer the convex regardless of any purported benefits it may have. I do as well.

Reply · Report · Andrew B on Dec 29, 2012

There are a number of variables you have to control to be able to make a consistent shot. Changing the type of coffee, the grind, the Tamp will all impact the quality of the shot. If you are using the golden rule, and aiming for a 25 second shot, you need to have control of all of these and only change one at a time.

This particular tamper, allows you to consistently use 30 pounds of pressure each and every time. This has made it possible for me to focus on the grind setting I'm using rather than having to worry whether I tamped harder or softer when I made the last shot.

Reply · Report · Bruce A on Dec 28, 2012

-1

I bought the flat bottom Espro and it works just fine.
I do not have a convex to try and I doubt I would be able to tell a difference.
This tamper has changed the way my ECM works because the coffee grounds are always at the correct level and do not jam against the dispersing screen.
Everything is cleaner and more reliable. My next move will be to try roasting green beans on the spot rather than to worry about flat or convex. The main thing here is the calibrated tamper is a good thing, I think.

Reply · Report · Richard J on Dec 28, 2012

-1

While I don't have a basis of comparison, I ordered the flat, and it works "perfectly." I had never pulled a shot in my life; then, jumped all in, and bought a prosumer machine, grinder, gram scale, 30# tamper, etc. Within 4 double shots, I had dialed in my techniques, and have pulling deliciousness out since. The tamper was a huge part of that success, I'm sure. You can't go wrong.

Reply · Report · Brohne L on Dec 28, 2012

-1

i take flat,it's great,super work

Reply · Report · Marianna F on Dec 29, 2012

-1

Has anyone used this with the Breville 840 Infuser? I believe the portafilter for the 840 and 860 is 54mm. Thanks.

Jeffrey G on Jan 26, 2013

Best Answer: Hi Jeffrey,

I have the 58mm Espro and use it with my Rancilio Silvia. It works great! I started with a regular tamper on my bathroom scale to work on getting 30 lb pressure each time. As a novice the Espro unit has taken out an additional variable in the process so I can move more quickly and work on perfecting my other techniques. I think after a while I will have the pressure dialed and can use a regular tamper if needed. I have also installed an Auber PID with pre infusion and steam control. This now keeps the temp perfect so all I need to do is keep my grind at the proper setting and steam/froth good microfoam which is getting pretty good.

It's a great product with high quality. I recommend it. Just check the spec of your portafilter basket and order one up from Seattlecoffeegear. I prefer the flat base rather than convex.

Best regards,
Gerrit

Reply · Report · Gerrit A on Feb 20, 2013

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Thanks, everyone. I am going to buy this. As a novice as well I hope it removes a variable. I am rapidly learning how even a change in the beans I use will alter which grind and quantity to use. Based on Teri's response I will assume it fits (but at least they have an easy return policy).

Reply · Report · Jeffrey G on Feb 21, 2013

Hi Jeffrey,

Did you end up getting the Espro tamper? I also have the Breville 840 and was wondering what size Espro tamper would fit. What size did you get?

Darrin

Reply (1) · Report · Darrin G on Jan 8, 2014

I think that the Espro Calibrated Tamper comes in only 2 available sizes, and those are 53 mm and 58 mm, so I don't think you would be able to use it with the Breville Infuser.

Reply · Report · David M on Feb 21, 2013

The Breville Infuser is 53mm, and this size of the Espro calibrated tamper will fit in the portafilter just fine!

Reply (1) · Report · Teri KStaff on Jan 29, 2013

what's the difference between the sizes of 53 and 58 - I have a Breville Espresso machine. ALSO, what's the difference between flat and convex?

nick t on Apr 10, 2017

Best Answer: 5mm, or a little under a quarter of an inch. Depending on your Breville model, you'll need one or the other (if you don't want to use the included tamper).

Flat tamper bases are the standard, your Breville tamper is flat. A convex tamper base curves slightly in the center, creating a 'rounder' impression on your espresso puck after tamping. The idea behind a convex tamper base is that it can help to 'seal' the edges of the coffee to the basket in order to prevent channeling. While some people swear by them, I've never found much of a practical difference between the two.

Reply (1) · Report · Joshua SStaff on Apr 10, 2017

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Will 53mm work on a breville 870xl? I have read some that say yes even though breville says 54

A shopper on Dec 13, 2015

Best Answer: Yes

Reply · Report · Michele BStaff on Dec 13, 2015

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Which Espro tamper size and style would work best with the Rancilio Silvia V3?

Josh F on Mar 30, 2015

Best Answer: The Silvia takes a 58mm tamper and the style is based on your own personal preference.

Reply · Report · Michele BStaff on Mar 30, 2015

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Hi, would that work for a Saeco Aroma? What's the difference between flat and convex? thanks

A shopper on Mar 18, 2015

Best Answer: Unless you have upgraded to a non-pressurized portafilter, your Aroma should not require tamping. If you do choose to tamp, yes, this will work. You will need the 53mm size. Flat is just as it sounds, having a flat bottom. Convex means that the bottom is slightly curved. Which one you choose is all about preference.

Reply · Report · Michele BStaff on Mar 28, 2015

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I have a Saeco Via Venizia machine with a 53 mm portafilter. does that mean I should buy a tamper that is slightly smaller than 53 MM or do I just order the 53 mm size tamper?

A shopper on Jan 15, 2014

Best Answer: If you are using a 53mm portafilter, a 53mm tamper is designed to be just slightly smaller than that and so you will be ordering the correct size if you purchase a 53mm tamper.

Reply · Report · Teri KStaff on Jan 15, 2014

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Hi, does the 53mm size fit the mypressi v2?

Tim A on Jul 30, 2013

Best Answer: I am not sure if it's a good fit, as we no longer offer the MyPressi. Can you measure your basket with calipers? It should be about 53mm, and the tamper itself is just shy of that to fit inside. In inches, the 53mm baskets are about 2 1/8 inches, and the compatible tamper should be about 2 3/32 inches. Hope this helps!

Reply · Report · Teri KStaff on Jul 31, 2013

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Resources

Videos Featuring the Espro Calibrated Tamper

SCG Gift Guide 2012: Espresso Enthusiast

Reviews

Must haveReview by gmontem

Price
Quality
Value

Before having a calibrated tamper like the Espro, I had no idea I was tamping with too much pressure! Now I have one less variable to deal with.

The tamper feels very sturdy. My only gripe is the handle. When it's time to polish, I cannot get a good grip of the handle. Much easier to spin my Rattleware tamper.

I purchased the 53 mm convex for my Breville Infuser. (Posted on 9/15/2016)

Exelent upgradeReview by Jack YV

Price
Quality
Value

The first two days after receiving my Rancilio Epoca S1T, while I was waiting for the accessories shipment, I used the plastic tamper included in the box :-( . The tamper I've ordered was a 20$ aluminum one. Almost a year later, time for an upgrade, I ordered the Espro calibrated tamper. the difference feels as the one I felt when switching from the plastic one. superb construction, nice feel and more important: control, consistency and repeatability. At almost the same price of other non calibrated premium options, I don't consider it to be expensive for the added value to my coffee. (Posted on 11/12/2013)

Great tamperReview by carlitos

Price
Quality
Value

I have had the tamper for a bout a month and I really like it because it is so easy to apply the correct pressure all the time. It's heavy and sturdy and it feels good in my hand. I highly recommend it, it's worth the cost. (Posted on 8/14/2013)

Pricey but GoodReview by Jamesworld

Price
Quality
Value

It's a great idea. The first time my wife used the calibrated tamper she said, "I would have never pressed that hard." It's a great training tool for those who want to learn a proper tamp and a great aid for those who don't, but still want a good shot.

There's no question about the quality of the product. It's first rate! (Posted on 5/29/2013)

Excellent product which will improve the home espresso qualityReview by Tom

Price
Quality
Value

For some time I felt like using a calibrated tamper was a little like cheating. I wanted to develop my technique without the aid of a device like this. I finally threw in the towel and decided that it would be worth decreasing the variables of achieving a decent shot. I am delighted with the results. Even though I had done the bathroom scale test of measuring my tamp pressure it was obvious immediately that my tamping was sometimes too much or too little. My shots have improved dramatically and when I switch coffees with a little effort I can dial in on the perfect shot by only worrying about the grind. If you are having trouble getting the quality espresso you desire I can strongly recommend this tamper. (Posted on 5/25/2013)

Great tool and Video from the SCG teamReview by Vito

Price
Quality
Value

I love my Espro Calibrated tamper. It brings me great joy to know that Gail's art and "my" art look so much alike. I do think that at $90, its is a bit expensive, but having my espresso tamp be consistent means I only need to adjust my grinder a bit every few days to keep the beans in the right range for shots.

Thanks Gail and KAT! (Posted on 4/10/2013)

Oh!! That's 30lbs.Review by Gynomite

Price
Quality
Value

My tamps are much more consistent now. Dose, groom and tamp evenly until the 30lb feed back is reached. Stop and polish. Brew. It allowed me to better dial in the shot more consistently.

Good job (Posted on 4/10/2013)

Get it!Review by Barnard

Price
Quality
Value

This is not only a great learning tool but has me wondering why I would ever switch. Like a torque wrench for espresso. This price is steep but on par with other high end tampers. (Posted on 2/25/2013)

good tamperReview by marisha

Price
Quality
Value

very nice product (Posted on 12/27/2012)

No scale neededReview by RI_Art

Price
Quality
Value

If you are new to making espresso, like I am, then being able to control one of the many important variables just makes it easier.

Pros:
Easy To Use

Cons:
(Posted on 4/27/2012)

Great device to improve consistencyReview by Sean

Price
Quality
Value

I was having difficulty achieving a consistent 30 pound tamp without resorting to leaving my unsightly bathroom scale on my counter. This tamper delivers a consistent and precise 30 pound. Love it!

Pros:
Easy To Use, Accurate

Cons:
Expensive (Posted on 3/14/2012)

New Espresso Drinker...Great Product!!Review by bowtiensm

Price
Quality
Value

The bottom line is that this product is GREAT! I bought my first espresso machine just before Christmas this year (mini vivaldi II). Since then I've went through about 15 pounds of coffee. I've never been able to get consistent shots and have probably thrown about 10 pounds of that coffee down the sink, forced myself to drink another 4 pounds of it, and loved those few and far between shots that tasted great. I had seen this tamper when I bought my machine and thought it looked like a good idea but I didn't want to shell out another [$] for it. After getting the tamper today my first 4 cappuccinos are the best that I've made so far. Apparently I think I was was tamping between 70-100 pounds of pressure. I'm really not sure how much the "force" matters as far as the consistency of the tamp, but this product takes care of both issues. At $50-65 for a 5 pound bag of coffee I now realize that I should have bought this when I first got my machine and it would have paid for itself by now. As to the specifics of the tamper...it's solid, heavy, nice looking, and the size I got (53mm convex) fits my baskets a lot better than my other tamper (which was a cheap aluminum one).Also seattlecoffeegear was great to work with. I ordered this product late on a Wednesday afternoon and had the product by Saturday morning. Thanks!

Pros:
Easy To Use, Easy To Clean, Great Taste, Fixed my espresso

Cons:
Price but worth it (Posted on 2/18/2012)

Works for meReview by David C

Price
Quality
Value

The tamper has helped remove one variable for this newbie. Every shot use to be radically different. No longer. If you're on the fence about purchasing the tamper - jump off, do a Humpty Dumpty. It does a cracking good job.

Pros:

Cons:
(Posted on 2/1/2012)

Good, solid tamper for learningReview by reedk

Price
Quality
Value

This is a great and well made tool for learning how much pressure to pack with and for providing a consistent pack for calibrating the extractions on your machine. It's not quite as nice as some packers though if that matters to you. It does have a spring in it. But then again it calibrates your packing pressure!

Pros:
Provides consistent pack, Solid, Teaches pressure

Cons:
None (Posted on 1/25/2012)

ConsistencyReview by DAG-NYC

Price
Quality
Value

Very even, consistent tamper. Takes one variable out of the process, so you can control brew time more precisely by adjusting the grind.

Pros:
Great Taste, Easy To Clean, Easy To Use, Commercial Grade

Cons:
(Posted on 1/9/2012)

Really cool toolReview by CK

Price
Quality
Value

If you only make espresso on the weekends like me, its hard to develop a consistent tamp pressure. This tamper takes out tamp pressure as a variable, so you can properly concentrate on grind and dose to adjust your pulls. Since using this tamper, and also dosing by weight, I reduced my sink shot considerably.

Pros:
Easy To Use

Cons:
(Posted on 12/30/2011)

Great toolReview by CJanky

Price
Quality
Value

Great tool for learning the correct tamping pressure. After a month or two of using the Espro, muscle memory allows for standard tamper use with consistency and confidence! I love it!

Pros:
Reliable, Good design, Easy To Use

Cons:
(Posted on 4/2/2011)