Salt/Pepper Grinder Questions

[PTownSubbie]

I have yet to make one of these but the LOML said something about wanting one.

My question is:
1. Which kits did you like the best?
2. Are there any that are not made with much quality/precision that you would not use again?

 

[Craftdiggity]

I have only worked with the PSI kits and they seem to be just fine. I have had no issues with either the shaft or shaftless kits.

 

[broitblat]

I like the kits that Exotic Blanks sells (and I think these are similar to the Premium/Deluxe CSUSA kits).

In contrast to Chris' experience, I haven't had good luck with the shaftless kits from PSI although my main issue was that the mechanisms wouldn't stay glued in place.

-Barry

 

[Larryd]

This is what I use. They are well made, easy to install and MADE IN USA. I've never had a problem with the pepper or the salt. my 2 cents

http://www.packardwoodworks.com/Mer...kard&Category_Code=proj-supp-salpep-delpepper

 

[bitshird]

I've only made 1, and I used this mechanism http://www.woodcraft.com/Catalog/ProductPage.aspx?prodid=16792 it takes at least a 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 by what ever length you want to make, but it's a nice grinder, I bought one from Exotics, but I haven't had a chance to make it yet, it looks a lot simpler to make than the Ceramic one is, and it's less expensive also.

 

[ed4copies]

And ours are also made in USA

 

[el_d]

I bought a shaftless grinder from Woodcraft that looks OK but havent put the dang thing together yet. Too many bits that I dont have.

 

[philipff]

Just be sure that the person wanting a salt grinder understands that the hard plastic ones work and the steel ones rust away, including the SS ones. I get my kits from Chef Specialties -- no connection, just satisfied with quality. Phil

 

[TellicoTurning]

I use the Crush Grind mechanism, both the shafted and shaftless version. They are touted as being good for both peppercorns and salt... keeping in mind that the shaft is aluminum and may react with salt if there is moisture.... I have a tutorial on making the shaftless kits that I use.... most instructions call for a 3 piece body... I only use two pieces..

 

[ed4copies]

Just be sure that the person wanting a salt grinder understands that the hard plastic ones work and the steel ones rust away, including the SS ones. I get my kits from Chef Specialties -- no connection, just satisfied with quality. Phil

Actually, we sell Chef Specialties mechs. Have done so since 1999.

 

[PTownSubbie]

Thanks everyone for the responses. It gives me a great place to start.

Only questions I have remaining is how durable are the plastic ones? I am leaning toward that for the salt to prevent the rusting...

 

[nava1uni]

I have had a salt grinder with a plastic mechanism for over 5 years and have had no problem with the mechanism. It grinds nicely and produces a nice grind of salt.

 

[nava1uni]

I use the Crush Grind mechanism, both the shafted and shaftless version. They are touted as being good for both peppercorns and salt... keeping in mind that the shaft is aluminum and may react with salt if there is moisture.... I have a tutorial on making the shaftless kits that I use.... most instructions call for a 3 piece body... I only use two pieces..

Would you be willing to share the tutorial? Or at least where you found it.
Thanks

 

[Larryd]

Ed, I am sorry I did not mention you, sorry. Chef Specialties is an excellent grinder.

 

[ed4copies]

Ed, I am sorry I did not mention you, sorry. Chef Specialties is an excellent grinder.

Not YOUR job to mention us!!!

I'll manage to fill that gap:biggrin::biggrin::biggrin:

BTW we also handle Chef Specialties' salt mech, which is designed for milling sea salt.

Seems to work--have never had a complaint.

Also, if you want to make regular peppermills, send me a PM if you would like my tutorial (written with pictures, not a video-yet).