Let’s Talk About LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel
For those who take pride in crafting their own ground meats, from the perfect burger blend to homemade sausages and jerky, the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel is a crucial piece of equipment. LEM Products is a respected name in meat processing, and this grinder plate promises to deliver a fine grind for a variety of culinary creations. With its stainless steel construction and precise 3mm (1/8 inch) holes, it aims to be a durable and reliable tool for any home meat grinder.
I’ve spent years working with various meat grinders and attachments, always searching for the perfect grind consistency. My old grinder plate was struggling, producing uneven results, and showing signs of rust despite my best efforts. I needed a replacement that could deliver consistently fine ground meat, and the LEM Products plate caught my eye due to its stainless steel build and reputation for quality.
Upon unboxing, the plate felt solid and well-made. The stainless steel had a nice weight to it, and the precision of the 3mm holes was immediately noticeable. It appeared much more robust and refined than my previous, cheaper plate.
I considered a few other brands, but ultimately chose the LEM Products plate because of LEM’s reputation and the overwhelmingly positive reviews regarding its durability and consistent grind. Plus, the price was competitive. Initial thoughts were positive; I was excited to see how it would perform in action.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was grinding venison for burger patties. I used my LEM Products #22 meat grinder, attaching the new plate with ease. The grinder plate delivered a remarkably consistent, fine grind that was noticeably better than my old plate.
The 3mm holes created a texture ideal for burgers, allowing them to hold their shape well during cooking. There were no issues with clogging or uneven grinding, even when processing slightly tougher cuts of venison. The plate performed flawlessly, even when grinding meat that was only partially frozen.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of frequent use, the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my meat processing setup. I’ve used it to grind everything from beef and pork to chicken and wild game. It continues to produce consistent results every time.
There are no signs of wear and tear, and the stainless steel has remained rust-free. Maintaining the plate is simple; a quick wash with soap and hot water is all it takes to keep it clean. Compared to my previous grinder plate, which quickly became stained and difficult to clean, the LEM Products plate is a significant improvement.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel
Specifications
- Manufacturer: LEM Products
- Material: Stainless Steel – This ensures durability and resistance to rust.
- Plate Size: #20/22 – Fits standard #20 and #22 meat grinders.
- Hole Diameter: 3mm (1/8 inch) – Provides a very fine grind, ideal for hamburger, bologna, hot dogs, and jerky.
- Plate Diameter: 3.25 inches – The standard diameter ensures proper fit and function with compatible grinders.
- Hubless Design: Can be used on either side – Increases the lifespan of the plate by allowing both sides to be used.
These specifications are crucial for achieving the desired grind consistency and ensuring the plate’s longevity. The stainless steel construction is a must-have for hygiene and durability, while the 3mm holes provide the fine texture needed for specific recipes.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel excels in its primary function: providing a consistent and fine grind. Its performance is outstanding, and it consistently delivers the texture I need for various meat products. It easily meets and even exceeds my expectations.
Its strength lies in its ability to handle different types of meat without clogging or producing uneven results. A slight improvement could be made by further polishing the plate’s surface to reduce friction and improve the grinding speed, though it’s a minor concern.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The stainless steel construction feels robust, and the plate is easy to handle. The hubless design is a smart feature that effectively doubles the plate’s lifespan.
There is no real learning curve; it’s a straightforward attachment that works seamlessly with compatible meat grinders.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction and LEM Products’ reputation, I expect this plate to last for many years. The ease of cleaning and maintenance further contributes to its longevity.
A simple wash with soap and water is sufficient to remove any residue. Regular inspection for any signs of damage is also recommended, though I haven’t encountered any issues so far.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone attachment. It is designed to work with standard #20 and #22 meat grinders.
The compatibility with various grinder models makes it a versatile addition to any meat processing setup. LEM Products also offers a wide range of other grinder plates with different hole sizes, allowing for further customization of grind consistency.
Pros and Cons of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel
Pros
- Consistent Fine Grind: Provides a uniform 3mm grind, ideal for burgers, sausage, and jerky.
- Durable Stainless Steel: Resists rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Hubless Design: Allows for use on either side, effectively doubling the plate’s lifespan.
- Easy to Clean: Simple maintenance with soap and water.
- Compatible with #20/22 Grinders: Fits a wide range of standard meat grinders.
Cons
- Limited Grind Size: Only offers a very fine grind; not suitable for coarser textures.
- No Included Accessories: Comes as a standalone plate; no additional cleaning tools or storage case included.
Who Should Buy LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel?
The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel is perfect for home meat processors, hunters who grind their own game, and anyone who wants to create finely ground meat for specific recipes like sausages, bologna, hot dogs, or jerky. It’s ideal for those who value consistency and durability in their meat processing equipment.
This product may not be suitable for those who prefer a coarser grind for their meat or who only occasionally grind meat and don’t need such a specialized plate.
A must-have accessory would be a dedicated cleaning brush for removing meat particles from the plate’s holes.
Conclusion on LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel
In summary, the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 3mm, Stainless Steel is a high-quality and reliable tool that delivers consistent, fine grinds for various meat processing needs. Its durable stainless steel construction, hubless design, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about grinding their own meat.
The price of $19.56 is more than justified given the plate’s performance and longevity. I would highly recommend this grinder plate to anyone looking for a durable and effective solution for achieving a fine meat grind. Upgrade your meat processing game and experience the difference a quality grinder plate can make!