A quality tamper is important to achieving an even tamp of ground espresso to help in pulling the perfect espresso shot. Currently, we carry two of the most common size tamper bases used in home machines, 51 mm and 53 mm, which corresponds to the diameter of the portafilter in your espresso machine. These bases are flat and are made of solid, US-made, FDA food compliant grade 304 18-8 stainless steel.
Our tamper handles are made from spalted birch or spalted maple from our property in Quebec that is carefully turned on our vintage wood lathe into a designed and tested ergonomic shape. The handle is then sanded, polished and spray-finished with at least five coats of ultra-clear, environmentally friendly, water-based acrylic lacquer that both highlights the character of the wood and provides a durable, shiny finish. The handle is then threaded onto the stainless-steel base.
Spalted wood is beautiful and eye-catching and it comes in many forms with unique lines, patterns, colors and textures that is caused by decay of certain species of aged wood. While somewhat rare and sought after by woodworkers and others for its beauty, spalt is one of the longest-lasting colorations found in wood.
Espresso Coffee Tamper
The entire tamper handle and base is about 4 inches (102 mm) in height.
Some slight variations in shape might occur because each hardwood handle is individually turned by hand on our lathe.
Because each tamper is unique in its wood type, coloration and patterns, each is listed separately in the drop-down menu under “Wood Type (Type de bois)” and only one item is available for each selection. Further, the maximum diameter of the handle is listed next to the selection in this drop-down menu.
After making your selection of tamper handle, it is important to select the tamper base diameter under “Tamper Base Diameter (diamètre de la base)”
To care for the handle, simply wipe with a damp, non-abrasive cloth when needed, however, the wood should never be allowed to soak in water or be washed in the dishwasher or it will become damaged. The stainless-steel base can be unthreaded and removed for easier washing when required and, unlike the handle, this part can be immersed in water or washed in the dishwasher if desired.
Happy espresso making and all activities related to it!