Let’s Dive into LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size
The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size sits in a sweet spot for home processing. It’s not the smallest, nor the largest, but it promises a significant upgrade for those ready to tackle larger batches of meat. I’ve spent countless hours processing game, from deer and elk to wild boar, and a reliable grinder is the heart of any operation.
My old grinder, a smaller #8 unit, struggled with larger quantities, overheating and slowing me down. I needed a grinder that could handle 10-20 lb batches without a fuss, and the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size seemed to fit the bill. The Big Bite technology and the 0.75 HP motor were particularly appealing.
Unboxing the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size, I was immediately impressed with the all-stainless steel construction. It felt solid and well-built, a step above some of the cheaper grinders I’ve encountered. The weight (33.1 lbs) gives it a reassuring heft, suggesting durability.
I considered the Weston Pro Series #22 and the Cabela’s Commercial-Grade #12 before settling on the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size. The Weston was overkill for my needs, and the Cabela’s didn’t have the same reputation for reliability. The LEM seemed to strike the right balance of power, capacity, and build quality, plus LEM Products has a solid reputation.
My first impression was definitely excitement, mixed with a bit of anticipation. Could this grinder truly live up to the hype and streamline my processing workflow? Only time and a lot of meat would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved grinding 15 pounds of venison for burger. The grinding took place in my garage, where the temperature was a chilly 40 degrees Fahrenheit. This put the grinder under some strain, as the meat was quite cold and firm.
The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size handled the venison with ease. The Big Bite technology really shined, pulling the meat through quickly and efficiently. I only needed to use the included meat stomper a few times.
Using the grinder was simple and intuitive. A straightforward on/off switch and a sturdy handle for moving the unit made the process smooth. The unit proved easy to operate, with minimal setup required.
There was no significant bogging or slowing down, and the meat came out with a consistent texture.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I’ve processed over 100 pounds of various meats, and it still performs like new. Durability is really a standout feature.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear, just some minor surface scratches on the stainless steel. The stainless steel head, auger, and meat pan are all holding up perfectly. All metal (steel) gears with roller bearings have ensured smooth operation.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. The grinder disassembles easily, and the stainless steel components wash up quickly with soap and hot water. A light coat of food-grade silicone spray after cleaning helps prevent rust and keeps everything running smoothly.
Compared to my old grinder, the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size is a quantum leap in performance and efficiency. It grinds faster, handles larger quantities, and is noticeably more durable. It has exceeded my expectations in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size
Specifications
- Power: 0.75 HP (550 watts). This provides ample power for grinding various types of meat.
- Grinding Capacity: Approximately 11 lbs. per minute. This throughput allows for quick processing of large batches.
- Head Size: #12. The 12 Head Size provides a balance between capacity and motor strain.
- Construction: All stainless steel motor housing, head, auger, and meat pan. Stainless steel construction is essential for hygiene and durability.
- Dimensions: 9.13in W x 20.24in L x 15.98in H (Fully Assembled). The dimensions offer a compact footprint while providing adequate work space.
- Weight: 33.1 lbs. Weight equates to ruggedness in this case.
- Voltage: 120 Volt, permanently lubricated motor. A standard electrical connection is convenient and reliable.
- Plates: Includes 1 stainless steel fine plate (3/16in – 4.5mm) and 1 stainless steel coarse plate (3/8in – 10mm). These plates allow for different grind consistencies.
- Stuffing Tubes: Includes 3 stuffing tubes (5/8in, 1in, 1-3/8in OD). The stuffing tubes allow for making sausages of various sizes.
- Meat Pan: Large stainless steel meat pan (12-1/4in x 9-1/8in x 2-1/4in deep). Provides ample space for meat before grinding.
- Warranty: 5-year factory warranty. This warranty demonstrates LEM Products’ confidence in their product.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size excels at its primary function: grinding meat quickly and efficiently. The Big Bite technology ensures a smooth and consistent grind, even with tougher cuts of meat. The grinder is very reliable.
Its main strength is its ability to process large quantities of meat without overheating or bogging down. A potential weakness could be the noise level; it’s not the quietest grinder on the market, but that is expected with any powerful unit. It more than meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size has a straightforward and functional design. The all-stainless steel construction not only looks good but also makes it easy to clean.
The grinder is relatively heavy, but the heavy duty handle makes it easy to move around. There’s no significant learning curve; you can plug it in and get right to grinding!
Durability & Maintenance
The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction suggest it will provide years of reliable service. This feels like a multi-decade product.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Disassembling the grinder for cleaning is quick and easy, and all the components are dishwasher-safe. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it running smoothly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size comes with a good selection of accessories, including:
- Meat stomper
- Stainless steel knife
- Stainless steel stuffing plate
- Stainless steel fine plate (3/16in – 4.5mm)
- Stainless steel coarse plate (3/8in – 10mm)
- 3 stuffing tubes (5/8in, 1in, 1-3/8in OD)
- Plate extractor
- Large stainless steel meat pan
It’s compatible with most standard #12 grinder plates and stuffing tubes. This allows for further customization based on your specific needs.
Pros and Cons of LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size
Pros
- Powerful 0.75 HP motor: Provides ample power for grinding large quantities of meat quickly and efficiently.
- Big Bite technology: Ensures a smooth and consistent grind, even with tougher cuts of meat.
- All-stainless steel construction: Durable, hygienic, and easy to clean.
- Includes a variety of accessories: Comes with everything you need to start grinding and stuffing sausages.
- 5-year factory warranty: Provides peace of mind and demonstrates LEM Products‘ confidence in their product.
Cons
- The unit is fairly heavy, so moving it can be difficult for some users.
- The grinder can be somewhat noisy during operation.
Who Should Buy LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size?
Perfect for hunters who process their own game, home cooks who want to make their own sausages and ground meat, and anyone who needs a reliable grinder for processing larger quantities of meat. This is also ideal for small butcher shops, restaurants, and caterers.
This product may not be ideal for those who only occasionally grind small amounts of meat. Those individuals would benefit from a smaller, less powerful grinder.
A meat mixer would be a valuable addition for sausage making, and extra grinding plates of varying sizes could enhance versatility.
Conclusion on LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size
The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size is a fantastic grinder that delivers on its promises. It’s powerful, durable, and easy to use, making it a great investment for anyone who regularly processes meat. This grinder also features a built in circuit breaker.
At $529.99, it’s not the cheapest grinder on the market, but the price is justified by its performance, build quality, and included accessories. It’s worth it to invest in quality.
I would definitely recommend the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 12 Head Size to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient meat grinder. It will make processing your own meat a breeze, saving you time and money in the long run. Upgrade your grind!