LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size Review

Let’s Talk About LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size

The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size is more than just a kitchen appliance; it’s a gateway to crafting your own sausages, burgers, and ground meat creations. Designed for the avid hunter or home cook processing a moderate amount of meat, this grinder balances power with a manageable size. The LEM Products brand has built a solid reputation for quality meat processing equipment, and this grinder appears to continue that tradition.

For years, I relied on a smaller, less powerful grinder that struggled with even moderately sized batches of game meat. Processing a deer after a successful hunt became a dreaded chore, filled with overheating and frustrating jams. The promise of faster grinding and more consistent results led me to the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size.

Unboxing the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size revealed a robust, stainless steel machine. The heft of the motor housing and the substantial meat pan immediately suggested a durable build. It felt like a professional-grade tool, a significant step up from my previous grinder.

Compared to smaller grinders from brands like KitchenAid or Cabela’s entry-level models, the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size appeared far more capable. I chose it for its combination of power, capacity, and reputation for handling tougher cuts of meat. My decision was further solidified by the all-metal gears and the LEM’s five-year warranty.

Initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive. The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size exuded quality and looked ready to tackle a serious meat grinding session. I was genuinely excited to see if it lived up to the “Big Bite” name.


Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run was processing a batch of venison after a successful deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. The temperature was a crisp 35 degrees Fahrenheit, and the meat was chilled but not frozen. I used the coarse grinding plate for a batch of burger and the fine plate for sausage.

The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size handled the venison with ease. It powered through sinew and tougher cuts without bogging down or requiring excessive pressure. The “Big Bite” auger system definitely made a noticeable difference in feeding the meat into the grinding head, preventing jams and speeding up the process.

Using the grinder was straightforward, although I did consult the manual for the initial setup and attachment of the stuffing tubes. Clean-up was relatively easy, with the stainless-steel components detaching and washing quickly. However, I recommend wearing gloves while handling the grinding plates and knife due to their sharpness.

After the first use, I was impressed by the grinder’s performance and efficiency. My previous grinder would have taken twice as long and required significantly more effort to process the same amount of meat. The consistent grind and clean operation of the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size were a pleasant surprise.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, processing everything from deer and elk to pork and beef, the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size has consistently performed well. It has become an invaluable tool for creating custom sausage blends and high-quality ground meat at home. The volume of meat I can process in a single session has markedly increased.

The grinder has proven to be durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. I have noticed some minor discoloration on the grinding plates, but this is normal with use and does not affect performance.

Maintenance is straightforward. I thoroughly clean and dry all components after each use and occasionally apply a food-grade lubricant to the gears. The Manufacturer recommends this maintenance to prolong the lifespan of the grinder. The simplicity of the design makes disassembly and cleaning relatively quick and easy.

Compared to my previous, underpowered grinder, the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size is a game-changer. It has significantly reduced the time and effort required for meat processing, while also delivering a higher quality end product. Its reliability and consistent performance have exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size

Specifications

  • Power: The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size boasts a 0.5 HP (370 watts) motor. This provides ample power for grinding various types of meat without bogging down.
  • Grinding Capacity: It can grind approximately 7 lbs per minute. This allows for efficient processing of large batches of meat.
  • Head Size: The 8 head size is a good balance between capacity and ease of handling. It’s large enough for processing a few deer per year, but not so large as to be unwieldy.
  • Material: The grinder features stainless steel construction for the motor housing, head, auger, and meat pan. This ensures durability, hygiene, and ease of cleaning.
  • Meat Pan: The large stainless steel meat pan (12-1/4in x 9-1/8in x 2-1/4in deep) provides ample space for holding meat before grinding. This reduces the need for frequent refills.
  • Accessories: The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size comes with a variety of accessories. These include: stainless steel stuffing plate, stainless steel fine plate (3/16in), stainless steel grinding knife, meat stomper, three stuffing tubes (1/2in, 1in, 1-3/8in OD), stainless steel coarse plate (3/8in), and a plate extractor.
  • Dimensions: Assembled, the grinder measures 9.13in W x 18.5in L x 15.59in H. This is a relatively compact size that won’t take up too much counter space.
  • Weight: The grinder weighs 28.66 lb. This indicates a robust and durable construction.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the grinder’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The powerful motor and large grinding capacity allow for efficient processing of meat. The stainless steel construction ensures hygiene and longevity, while the included accessories provide versatility for different grinding and stuffing tasks.

Performance & Functionality

The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size excels at its primary function: grinding meat. It consistently produces a uniform grind, whether using the coarse or fine plate. The “Big Bite” auger system efficiently pulls meat into the grinding head, reducing the need for manual pushing and preventing jams.

The grinder’s strengths lie in its power, efficiency, and consistent performance. It handles tough cuts of meat with ease. The included stuffing tubes allow for the production of a variety of sausages.

One area for potential improvement is the meat stomper. The included plastic stomper feels a bit flimsy. A sturdier, heavier stomper would be beneficial.

Overall, the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size meets and even exceeds expectations. It is a reliable and efficient meat grinder that delivers consistent results.

Design & Ergonomics

The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size boasts a functional and durable design. The stainless steel construction is not only hygienic but also gives the grinder a professional appearance. The weight of the unit provides stability during operation.

The grinder is generally user-friendly, with a straightforward setup and intuitive controls. However, the initial assembly of the grinding head may require referring to the manual. The front storage drawer is a convenient addition for keeping accessories organized.

Durability & Maintenance

The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size is built to last. The stainless steel components and all-metal gears are designed to withstand years of use. The Manufacturer, LEM Products, offers a 5-year factory warranty, providing further peace of mind.

Maintaining the grinder is relatively easy. Thorough cleaning and drying of all components after each use are essential. Occasional lubrication of the gears will help to ensure smooth operation and prolong the lifespan of the grinder.

Accessories and Customization Options

The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including:

  • Stainless steel stuffing plate
  • Stainless steel fine plate (3/16in)
  • Stainless steel grinding knife
  • Meat stomper
  • Three stuffing tubes (1/2in, 1in, 1-3/8in OD)
  • Stainless steel coarse plate (3/8in)
  • Plate extractor

While there aren’t many direct customization options for the grinder itself, the availability of different grinding plates and stuffing tubes allows for versatility in meat processing. The grinder is likely compatible with standard 8 head size grinding plates and stuffing tubes from other brands. This expands the possibilities for creating different types of ground meat and sausages.

Pros and Cons of LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size

Pros

  • Powerful 0.5 HP motor provides efficient grinding for various types of meat.
  • “Big Bite” auger system ensures smooth feeding and prevents jams.
  • Stainless steel construction provides durability, hygiene, and easy cleaning.
  • Includes a variety of accessories, including grinding plates and stuffing tubes.
  • 5-year factory warranty provides peace of mind.

Cons

  • The included meat stomper feels somewhat flimsy.
  • The price point might be prohibitive for casual users.


Who Should Buy LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size?

The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size is perfect for:

  • Hunters who process their own game meat.
  • Home cooks who want to create custom sausage blends and high-quality ground meat.
  • Small-scale farmers who sell meat directly to consumers.
  • Anyone who values quality, durability, and efficient meat processing.

This product might not be ideal for:

  • Casual users who only occasionally grind meat.
  • Those on a very tight budget.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality meat lug for holding the meat before grinding. Consider also investing in a set of high-quality sausage casings for making homemade sausage.

Conclusion on LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size

The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size is a well-built, powerful, and efficient meat grinder that delivers consistent results. It is an excellent investment for hunters, home cooks, and small-scale farmers who want to take control of their meat processing.

The price is justified by the grinder’s performance, durability, and included accessories. The LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size is a significant step up from smaller, less powerful grinders.

I would absolutely recommend the LEM Products Big Bite Grinder 8 Head Size to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient meat grinder. It is a worthwhile investment that will provide years of reliable service and enable you to create delicious, custom meat products at home. Upgrade your meat processing game today and experience the LEM Products difference!

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