Let’s Talk About LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel are essential components for anyone serious about processing their own meat at home. Manufactured by LEM Products, these plates are designed for use with #20 and #22 meat grinders, offering a 6mm (approximately 1/4 inch) hole size, and constructed from durable stainless steel.
I found myself needing a replacement plate for my trusty grinder. My old plate, after years of loyal service grinding everything from venison to pork, had finally started to show its age with visible wear and tear affecting the grind quality.
The LEM Products grinder plate arrived simply packaged but well-protected. My initial impression was of solid, substantial construction. The stainless steel felt smooth and dense, immediately inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand heavy use.
Compared to generic grinder plates I’ve used in the past, the LEM Products plate stood out due to its seemingly superior build quality and hubless, reversible design. I’d considered a cheaper alternative, but the promise of LEM’s reputation for quality and longevity ultimately swayed my decision.
I was definitely excited to get this plate installed and start grinding again. It felt like a small investment to breathe new life into my meat processing setup and ensure consistent results for my sausage making and burger blending adventures.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel during a large batch of Italian sausage making after a successful deer hunt. The plate was used in conjunction with my electric #22 grinder to process roughly 20 pounds of venison and pork shoulder.
The grinder plate performed exceptionally well, even when grinding slightly thawed meat. The 6mm holes produced a consistent, medium grind, perfect for the texture I was aiming for in my sausage.
Installation was effortless, and the hubless design meant I didn’t have to worry about orientation. I noticed an immediate improvement in the speed and consistency of the grind compared to my old, worn plate.
There were no immediate issues or surprises. The plate performed exactly as expected, resulting in a smooth, even grind with minimal clogging.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel has proven to be a durable and reliable component. I’ve used it to grind everything from tough cuts of beef for burger patties to leaner venison for chili.
The stainless steel construction shows no signs of rust or corrosion, even after being exposed to moisture during the grinding process. The edges of the holes remain sharp, maintaining a consistent grind quality.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward: I simply wash the plate with hot, soapy water after each use and dry it thoroughly. I occasionally apply a light coat of food-grade mineral oil to prevent any potential sticking.
Compared to previous grinder plates I’ve owned, the LEM Products plate significantly outperforms them in terms of durability and consistent performance. It truly seems built to last, and I expect to get many years of service from it.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel
Specifications
- Manufacturer: LEM Products
- Material: Stainless Steel – Offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability for long-term use.
- Plate Size: #20/22 – Compatible with #20 and #22 size electric meat grinders.
- Hole Size: 6mm (approximately 1/4 inch) – Provides a medium grind, ideal for sausages, burger meat, and other ground meat recipes.
- Diameter: 3.25 inches – The standard diameter for #20/22 grinder plates.
- Center Hole Size: 1/4 inch – Ensures proper fit and alignment with the grinder’s shaft.
- Hubless Design: Allows the plate to be used on either side, extending its lifespan.
- Quantity: 1 Plate – Each purchase includes a single grinder plate.
These specifications are important because they dictate the compatibility, performance, and longevity of the grinder plate. The stainless steel construction and precise hole size contribute to efficient and consistent meat processing.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel performs its job exceptionally well. The plate consistently produces a uniform grind, essential for quality sausages, burger patties, and other ground meat dishes.
Its strength lies in its durable construction and consistent grind size. One minor improvement could be even sharper edges on the holes for even faster grinding.
It definitely meets my expectations, providing a reliable and efficient grinding solution for my home meat processing needs. It consistently delivers quality results.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The stainless steel feels solid and well-machined, with no sharp edges or imperfections.
The hubless design is user-friendly, making it easy to install and reverse the plate for extended use. There’s no learning curve whatsoever – it’s a simple, functional design.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the stainless steel construction and robust build, I expect this plate to last for many years with proper care. It appears to be highly resistant to wear and tear.
Cleaning is straightforward with soap and water, and occasional oiling ensures smooth operation. Maintenance is minimal, which is a huge plus.
Accessories and Customization Options
The plate itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it’s a standalone replacement part. However, it’s designed to be compatible with any standard #20 or #22 electric meat grinder.
There are no customization options for the plate itself, but it can be used in conjunction with other LEM Products grinder attachments, such as sausage stuffing tubes, to create a complete meat processing system. This plate is a building block to many other options.
Pros and Cons of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity.
- Consistent 6mm grind size is ideal for sausages and burger meat.
- Hubless design allows for reversible use, extending the plate’s lifespan.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Compatible with any standard #20 or #22 electric meat grinder.
Cons
- Can be slightly more expensive than generic grinder plates.
- Does not come with any additional accessories.
Who Should Buy LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel?
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel is perfect for hunters who process their own game, home cooks who want to grind their own meat for burgers and sausages, and anyone who values quality and durability in their meat processing equipment.
Those who only occasionally grind small amounts of meat might be able to get by with a cheaper, less durable plate. However, if you grind frequently or in large quantities, the LEM Products plate is a worthwhile investment.
A must-have accessory would be a good quality meat grinder lubricant to help ensure smooth operation and prevent wear and tear on the grinder’s internal components. Also, a set of various sized plates (small, medium, coarse) is a good idea.
Conclusion on LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel
Overall, the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel is an excellent replacement part for anyone looking to improve the performance and longevity of their meat grinder. The quality, durability, and consistent grind size make it a valuable addition to any home meat processing setup.
The price is justified by the plate’s long-lasting stainless steel construction and reliable performance. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about grinding their own meat.
I would absolutely recommend this grinder plate to anyone looking for a high-quality, durable, and reliable replacement. Don’t settle for inferior imitations – invest in the LEM Products plate and experience the difference. Take your home meat processing to the next level!