Normcore V4 Coffee Tamper 53.3mm - Spring-loaded Tamper – Barista Espresso Tamper with 15lb / 25lb / 30lbs Replacement Springs - Anodized Aluminum Handle and Stand - Flat Base

Good

1. The quality of the machining is pretty good for this price. 2. The shape of the handle is a bit odd with a flat top but I'm only pulling a few shots a day so there's no issue there. 3. The levelling ability is reasonable. There is a slight bit of play between the inner shaft and the leveling flange but it does keep the tamp level. 4. Now the bad. There are actually two springs in this tamper. One which puts pressure on the flange which can be changed, and one which put pressure on the tamper which cannot be changed. The tamp pressure roughly measured on scales is 9 kg.. not enough to for me to get full compaction of grounds. The adjustable three springs just changes the pressure on the leveling flange so probably the lightest one is best. I think I'll pull mine apart and see if it's possible to remove the inner spring so I can get a slight bit more pressure to fully compact the puck. I know there's a bunch of peeps who measured tds at different tamp pressures who say it doesn't matter...well maybe for them in their situation. But for me in mine, there is absof*ckenlutly a difference with different tamp pressure. I've found that it's best when grounds are fully compacted...whatever that pressure emay be.

Expensive tool but the quality is great!

A close to perfect and Reliable tamper

This tamper is great accessory and is indispensable if you are hoping to pull a great espresso consistently. The calibrated spring greatly helps in applying desired tamping pressure consistently. Though slightly overpriced, greatly compensates with flawless tamping every time for pulling a great espresso. I would strongly recommend tamping tool for a great espresso every time and this tool satisfactorily and consistently serves the purpose.