We recommend measuring the exact inside diameter of the portafilter basket and then selecting a tamper at least . 75 mm smaller. Step 1: Use machine calipers or a steel measuring tape with 1/32 inch divisions to carefully measure the distance inside the filter basket directly across the centerline (the diameter).
#3: Post by BaristaBob replying to pcrussell50 » April 8th, 2018, 10:33 am +1 Welcome to H-B. Also look for 54.3 or 54.4mm size tamper through sources such as Pullman, Motta, etc. Would be your easiest solution. In the mean time use the north, south, east, west tamp method to flatten as much of the puck as possible. Bob “hello darkness my old friend..Ive come to drink you once again”
#2: Post by pcrussell50 » April 8th, 2018, 10:20 am First things first, try a 53 mm basket and see if it fits your portafilter and tamper. I think it might be a more common size than 54mm anyway. If not, its time to start measuring. See if you can scare up a dial caliper. Measure your portafilter basket diameter. Buy (or find) another 54mm basket and measure it. Measure your tamper. See if the 54mm tamper you bought fits a different 54mm basket any better. Also, in the 58mm world (the standard commercial size), people buy a very slightly bigger tamper, like 58.4mm for a high precision fit. -Peter LMWDP #553
#5: Post by BaristaBob replying to Ursego » April 8th, 2018, 1:21 pm Do a quick internet search. Seems the Dalla Corte uses a 54mm basket. Seems there are some oversized tampers out there. You should be good, just get some measurements of the inner dimensions of your basket. That should solve your problem. My BDB uses 58mm baskets and I use a 58.5mm tamper…very tight fit, but no edge crumbles!
#6: Post by TheJavaCup77 » April 9th, 2018, 12:43 pm Getting a basket thats specifically designed for a certain tamper or a tamper that is specifically designed for a certain basket is the go to way like having Pesado tamps for Pesado baskets and Pullmans for VSTs Besides that route… getting a custom tamper for your measured basket internal diameter is also a good idea but costly Many companies such as Reg Barber does these sort of custom projects Or you could always just measure your baskets I.D and search for a specific diameter online It could be as complex or as simple as you want. Its the choice of the barista.
Espresso Tampers – How to Choose the Best Size for Your Machine Setting up a perfect shot with the correct espresso tamper! Correctly sized, an espresso coffee tamper should be slightly smaller than the inside diameter of your espresso machine filter basket, so you can evenly compact the ground coffee without the tamper binding. The best method to identify correct tamper size is to measure the exact inside diameter of your filter basket using machinist calipers, then select a tamper slightly smaller than this measurement. In the event that you do not have access to a set of calipers, you can also use a steel measuring tape with 1 mm divisions and a very careful eye and steady hand to take the measurement in millimeters as follows: 1. Measure the largest distance inside the filter basket across the centerline. 2. Select a tamper slightly smaller (at least 0.75mm for clearance) than your filter basket measurement. Tamper Sizing Example 1. Using a steel tape you determine the inside diameter of your filter basket measures 58.74mm. 2. The espresso tamper that you like is available in sizes 49mm, 53mm and 58mm; therefore, the best fit would be 58mm. Espresso Tamper Size Reference Chart In addition, over the years weve compiled the following list of tampers for many popular espresso machines to assist with your selection. However, please note that actual measurement of your filter basket is always the most reliable method; although we went to much effort to validate the following sizes, we cannot guarantee them as sometimes variations are made by manufacturers within a given model or based on the year the machine was manufactured. Please feel free to call or email us if you have any question and we would be happy to assist with tamper sizing.
Selecting a Tamper for your Portafilter
FAQ
How do I choose a tamper size?
Can you use a 53mm tamper on a 54mm portafilter?
Will a 51mm tamper fit a 51mm portafilter?
Are all coffee tamps the same size?
How do you calculate a tamper size?
Convert the inches to millimeters by multiplying by 25.4 (2.33 x 25.4 = 59.18 mm) Get a tamper that’s 0.75 mm smaller by subtracting (59.18 – 0.75 = 58.43 mm) Tamper sizes are usually standardized to a whole number. For that reason, you’ll need to round up your final number to the lower approximation.
What size tamper do I Need?
Tamper sizes are usually standardized to a whole number. For that reason, you’ll need to round up your final number to the lower approximation. In the example’s case, this means 58 mm, so you will have to get a 58 mm tamper for your portafilter, the most common size in that case.
Does tamper size matter?
Tamper size matters. Using the correct tamper size ensures a snug fit within the portafilter, resulting in even and consistent tamping. This promotes optimal extraction, balanced flavors, and a satisfying espresso experience. What Size Tamper for 54mm Portafilter? For a 54mm portafilter, you would typically need a tamper with a 53mm or 54mm base.
What should I look for in a tamper?
Grip: Look for tampers with textured or knurled handles to provide a firm grip, especially when your hands are wet or oily. Detachable Handle: Some tampers feature detachable handles, allowing you to interchange handles of different materials or styles according to your preference.