Let’s Talk About LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel might not seem like the sexiest piece of gear, but for anyone serious about processing their own game or crafting the perfect sausage, it’s an absolute essential. This stainless steel plate, designed for LEM #20 and #22 meat grinders, boasts a 12mm (approximately 1/2 inch) hole diameter, making it ideal for coarse grinds. What truly sets it apart is its durable stainless steel construction and hubless design for extended use.
I embarked on a journey to find a grinder plate that could handle the demanding task of processing wild game after each hunting season. My previous experience with cheaper, coated plates was frustrating, to say the least; they chipped, rusted, and never delivered a consistent grind. The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel promised a solution to these problems, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the solid, substantial feel of the plate. It’s a simple, utilitarian design, but the quality of the stainless steel is immediately apparent. Compared to the flimsy, coated plates I’d used before, this felt like a professional-grade tool.
I considered options from Weston and Cabela’s, but ultimately chose the LEM plate based on its reputation for durability and precision. Many reviews emphasized the plate’s ability to withstand heavy use and resist rust, a crucial factor for my needs. I was hoping for a game-changer in my meat processing routine, and my initial impression was certainly positive.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel during my annual deer processing session after a successful hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was cold and damp, typical for late-season hunting in that region. Using a LEM #22 grinder, I processed about 50 pounds of venison, aiming for a coarse grind suitable for chili and sausage.
The plate performed flawlessly, producing a consistent, coarse grind with minimal effort. There were no jams or clogs, even when processing tougher cuts of meat. Cleanup was surprisingly easy; the stainless steel surface rinsed clean with hot water and soap.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel continues to perform admirably. I’ve used it to process everything from venison and pork to wild turkey and even fish for fish cakes. There are no signs of wear and tear, no rust, and no dulling of the cutting edges.
Maintenance is simple. I wash the plate thoroughly after each use and apply a light coat of food-grade mineral oil to prevent any potential corrosion. This is a huge improvement over my previous experiences with coated plates, which required constant scrubbing and still succumbed to rust. The LEM plate has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel
Specifications
Manufacturer: LEM Products. They are known for their quality meat processing equipment.
Material: Stainless Steel. This ensures durability and rust resistance.
Plate Diameter: 3.25 inches. This is designed to fit #20 and #22 grinders.
Hole Size: 12mm (approximately 1/2 inch). Perfect for coarse grinds.
Hubless Design: Can be used on either side. This doubles the lifespan of the plate.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the performance and longevity of the plate. Stainless steel resists corrosion and wear, while the precise hole size guarantees a consistent grind. The hubless design further extends the plate’s usability, making it a worthwhile investment.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel excels at producing a coarse grind. This is ideal for applications like chili, stew meat, and the first grind for sausage making. It efficiently processes meat without clogging or requiring excessive force.
The plate’s primary strength is its consistent performance and durability. A minor weakness is that it only offers one grind size; those needing finer grinds will require additional plates. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for coarse grinding.
Design & Ergonomics
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel boasts a straightforward, utilitarian design. The stainless steel construction gives it a solid, robust feel, and the hubless design is a practical touch. There’s no learning curve; it’s simply a matter of inserting the plate into the grinder.
The simplicity of the design contributes to its ease of use. The smooth stainless steel surface also makes it easy to clean.
Durability & Maintenance
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel is built to last. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service. Maintenance involves simply washing and drying the plate after each use.
Applying a thin coat of food-grade mineral oil is also recommended to prevent any potential corrosion. The stainless steel construction means it’s highly resistant to rust and wear, unlike cheaper alternatives.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone component. However, LEM Products offers a range of other grinder plates with different hole sizes for finer or coarser grinds. The plate is designed to work seamlessly with LEM #20 and #22 grinders.
While not customizable in the traditional sense, the option to purchase different sized grinder plates from LEM allows for versatility in meat processing. It is compatible with any standard #20 or #22 meat grinder that accepts standard plates of this size.
Pros and Cons of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel
Pros
- Durable Stainless Steel Construction: Resists rust and wear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Limited to Coarse Grinds: Requires additional plates for finer grinds.
Consistent Coarse Grind: Perfect for chili, stew meat, and first grinds for sausage.
Hubless Design: Can be used on either side, doubling the lifespan.
Easy to Clean and Maintain: The stainless steel surface is simple to clean and requires minimal maintenance.
Compatible with LEM #20 and #22 Grinders: Guarantees a proper fit and seamless performance.
Single-Purpose Tool: Designed solely for coarse grinding, lacking versatility for other tasks.
Who Should Buy LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel?
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel is perfect for hunters, home butchers, and serious cooks who regularly process meat and desire a durable, reliable coarse grinding solution. It’s also ideal for those making sausage, chili, and other recipes that require a chunky texture. If you are regularly processing large quantities of meat, this is an indispensable tool.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who only occasionally grind meat or require very fine grinds for specific recipes. You should also skip it if you don’t already own a #20 or #22 meat grinder. A must-have accessory is a set of additional LEM grinder plates with different hole sizes for greater versatility.
Conclusion on LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel is a well-built, durable tool that delivers consistent results. Its stainless steel construction and hubless design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about processing their own meat. While it’s limited to coarse grinds, its reliability and ease of use more than compensate for this limitation.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction. I wholeheartedly recommend the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Stainless Steel to anyone seeking a reliable and long-lasting coarse grinding solution. Upgrade your meat processing setup today and experience the difference!