Let’s Talk About LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes
The LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes are designed to streamline the process of filling bags with ground meat or sausage directly from your grinder. These tubes promise durability and ease of cleaning, crucial for anyone serious about home meat processing. LEM Products aims to provide quality equipment for hunters and home processors, and these stuffing tubes are an integral part of their lineup.
My foray into home sausage making hit a wall when I tried using makeshift funnels and spoons. The mess was incredible, and the efficiency was non-existent. I needed a solution that would not only speed up the process but also ensure consistent filling and reduce waste.
The LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was positive; the stainless steel construction felt solid and substantial. The smooth finish suggested easy cleaning, a major plus in my book.
I considered cheaper plastic alternatives but ultimately decided against them. My experience with plastic kitchen tools often ends in cracks and breakage. The LEM option seemed like a worthwhile investment in terms of longevity and hygiene, setting it apart from other, less durable options.
I was excited to finally have a dedicated tool that would make sausage making less of a chore and more of an enjoyable process. The promise of less mess and more efficient filling definitely piqued my interest. It seemed like a small investment for a significant improvement in my meat processing workflow.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes during a sausage-making session after a successful deer hunt. The goal was simple: convert the venison trim into delicious breakfast sausage. The tubes were used in conjunction with my #12 LEM grinder.
The performance was immediately noticeable. The 2-inch diameter tube allowed for a steady flow of ground meat into the poly bags. The smooth surface minimized friction, preventing the meat from sticking and clogging.
Using the tubes was straightforward; they easily attached to my grinder without any modifications. I filled several bags in quick succession, appreciating the even distribution of the meat. There weren’t any unexpected issues, and the process went far smoother than my previous attempts.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes have held up remarkably well. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, even after repeated exposure to moisture and meat juices. The stainless steel maintains its polished finish.
The tubes have proven to be incredibly durable. They’ve endured countless batches of sausage without any dents or warping. The solid construction gives me confidence that they will last for years to come.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wash with soap and water, followed by a run through the dishwasher, leaves them spotless. The simple design eliminates any hard-to-reach crevices where bacteria could accumulate. They have significantly outperformed my expectations compared to the frustrating experiences with makeshift methods.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes
Specifications
The LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes boast several key specifications that contribute to their functionality. They are made of durable stainless steel, ensuring longevity and hygiene. The length is 6 inches, providing ample space for filling bags.
The tube diameter is 2 inches, allowing for efficient meat flow. The tubes are designed to fit #20/12 grinders, making them compatible with a wide range of LEM and other brands. Each package contains one tube, which is sufficient for most home processing needs.
These specifications are vital because they directly impact the ease and efficiency of the sausage-making process. The stainless steel construction guarantees resistance to corrosion and makes cleaning simple. The 2-inch diameter strikes a balance between speed and control.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes excel at their primary function: efficiently filling bags with ground meat or sausage. They consistently deliver a smooth and even flow of meat, reducing air pockets and ensuring uniform filling. The functionality of these tubes is unmatched.
The major strength lies in their ability to streamline the filling process. I’ve noticed a significant reduction in processing time compared to using makeshift methods. There is room for improvement in bag-holding, but this is a minor quibble.
They meet my expectations and then some. I can fill bags of sausage with minimal effort. The consistency and speed have significantly improved my sausage-making sessions.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. LEM Products uses high-quality stainless steel that feels solid and durable in hand. The smooth, polished finish adds to the overall premium feel.
The tubes are user-friendly. They attach easily to the grinder and require no special tools or techniques. The 2-inch diameter is comfortable to work with, and the length provides adequate control. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures that the LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes are built to last. They are resistant to rust, corrosion, and wear and tear. I expect them to last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wash with soap and water after each use is all that’s needed. The dishwasher-safe design further simplifies the cleaning process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes come as a standalone product and do not include additional accessories. However, they are designed to integrate seamlessly with LEM’s line of grinders and other meat processing equipment. There are no customization options.
They are compatible with most standard poly bags used for sausage and ground meat. The simplicity of the design makes them versatile and easy to use with various setups. They’re the ideal upgrade for most meat grinders.
Pros and Cons of LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes
Pros
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures longevity and resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Efficient Filling: 2-inch diameter allows for a smooth and consistent flow of meat.
- Easy to Clean: Dishwasher-safe design simplifies maintenance.
- Universal Compatibility: Designed to fit #20/12 grinders from LEM Products and other brands.
- Improved Hygiene: Stainless steel construction minimizes the risk of bacterial contamination.
Cons
- Single Tube: Package only includes one tube, which may not be sufficient for larger operations.
- No Accessories: Does not include any additional attachments or accessories.
Who Should Buy LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes?
The LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes are perfect for home sausage makers and hunters who regularly process their own meat. Anyone looking to streamline the bag-filling process will greatly benefit from these tubes. They are also suitable for small-scale meat processors.
Anyone content with inefficient and messy filling methods should skip this product. Those who only occasionally make sausage might find it an unnecessary investment. If using a grinder smaller than a #12, be sure to check for other diameter sizing tubes, as these are designed for larger grinders.
Consider pairing these tubes with a good-quality poly bag sealer for optimal results. Also, having various sizes of meat grinder plates can help customize your texture. A hands-free bag holder can also make the filling process even smoother.
Conclusion on LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes
The LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes are a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about home meat processing. They offer durability, efficiency, and ease of cleaning, making sausage-making a more enjoyable and less tedious task. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity and hygiene.
The price is justified by the quality and performance. These tubes represent a significant upgrade over makeshift methods. I would wholeheartedly recommend them to fellow hunters and home sausage makers.
If you’re tired of messy and inefficient bag-filling, give the LEM Products #20/12 Stainless Steel Stuffing Tubes a try. You won’t be disappointed. Streamline your sausage making today!