Let’s Dive into LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder
The LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder isn’t just another kitchen appliance; it’s a game-changer for anyone serious about processing their own meat. Manufactured by LEM Products, this grinder boasts a dual grind system, meaning you can achieve the perfect texture in a single pass. This innovative feature, combined with its powerful motor, immediately caught my attention.
For years, I’ve been processing my own deer and wild hog, a task that always felt tedious with multiple grinds required for optimal texture. I needed a reliable and efficient grinder that could handle large quantities of meat without bogging down. After countless hours researching grinders, the LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder stood out with its promise of speed and consistency.
Unboxing this beast was impressive; the sheer weight (almost 50 lbs) screamed quality, and the stainless-steel construction exuded durability. The build quality felt robust, like it could withstand years of heavy use. Compared to my old grinder, a smaller unit that constantly clogged and struggled with tougher cuts, the LEM felt like a professional-grade machine.
Initially, I was excited but also a bit skeptical. The dual-grind system seemed too good to be true; I was worried it might compromise texture or power. However, the promise of cutting my processing time in half was too tempting to ignore, and my first impression was one of hopeful anticipation.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test run was with a batch of venison harvested during the last deer season. I set up the LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder in my garage, eager to see how it handled the meat. Despite the cool autumn air, the powerful motor didn’t hesitate, grinding through sinewy cuts with ease.
The dual-grind system worked flawlessly, producing a consistent, even texture that was noticeably superior to what I achieved with my old single-grind machine. I was immediately impressed by the speed and efficiency; the “Big Bite” design truly lived up to its name, pulling meat through the auger with minimal effort. No issues arose during the first use, and I found it surprisingly easy to operate after familiarizing myself with the components.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, grinding everything from deer and hog to beef and chicken, the LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder has proven its worth. It has handled countless batches without any noticeable degradation in performance. The stainless steel construction has held up extremely well; there are no signs of rust or corrosion.
Cleaning is relatively straightforward, although the weight of the head and auger makes handling them a bit cumbersome. Regular cleaning and proper lubrication are essential, but these tasks are manageable. Compared to my old grinder, which required constant disassembly and unclogging, the LEM is a dream to maintain, significantly outperforming it in terms of reliability and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder
Specifications
- The LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder boasts a powerful 1 HP motor (750 watts) for tackling tough grinding tasks. Its frequency is 60HZ for the 120V motor.
- The unit is constructed from durable stainless steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion. This includes the motor housing, head, auger, and meat pan.
- Its dimensions are 48.9 inches in height, 22.83 inches in length, and 12.08 inches in width, weighing in at 49.6 lb. The hole in the head where the pan is inserted is 3 inches.
- The grinder includes essential accessories like a stuffing plate, a first grind plate, a 10mm grind plate, a dual blade knife, and a 4.5mm grind plate. It also comes with three stuffing tubes (5/8in, 1in, 1-3/8in OD).
- The rounded meat pan measures 16-1/2in x 12-1/8in x 3in deep and features a hand guard for safety. Its maximum output is an impressive 13 lbs per minute.
- It incorporates Dual Grind Big Bite technology, featuring all-metal (steel) gears with roller bearings for smooth operation and lasting performance. Also, there is a storage drawer directly underneath the grinder head.
These specifications translate into a grinder that can handle large volumes of meat quickly and efficiently. The powerful motor prevents bogging down, while the stainless-steel construction ensures hygienic operation and long-term durability. The inclusion of various plates and stuffing tubes adds versatility, allowing for a wide range of meat processing tasks.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder excels at its primary function: grinding meat quickly and consistently. The dual grind system produces a uniform texture, ideal for sausages, burgers, and other ground meat products. Its “Big Bite” design efficiently pulls meat through the auger, minimizing the need for manual assistance.
However, it is quite heavy, making it less portable than smaller grinders. Its robust construction and efficient grinding capabilities more than compensate for the weight. This grinder meets and exceeds expectations for both speed and quality.
Design & Ergonomics
The stainless-steel construction of the LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder not only provides durability but also lends a professional aesthetic. While the unit is heavy, the included heavy-duty handle facilitates easy moving. The rounded meat pan with a hand guard is well-designed and provides a safe and convenient work surface.
There is a minimal learning curve; the grinder is relatively easy to assemble and operate. The storage drawer underneath the grinder head is a nice touch for storing plates and accessories.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust stainless-steel construction suggests that the LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder will last for many years with proper care. LEM Products provides a 5 year factory warranty. Regular cleaning and lubrication are crucial for maintaining its performance.
The grinder is relatively easy to disassemble for cleaning, although the weight of the components can be a minor inconvenience. Parts are readily available from LEM Products should any repairs be needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder comes with a generous selection of accessories, including multiple grinding plates and stuffing tubes. This allows for a wide range of meat processing tasks, from fine grinding for sausages to coarse grinding for chili. The included stainless steel first pass grinding plate, stainless steel dual blade knife, stainless steel second pass grinding plate 3/16in – 4.5mm, stainless steel stuffing plate, and stainless steel coarse plate 3/8in – 10mm provides versatile options.
While LEM Products offers additional accessories like sausage stuffers and jerky guns, the grinder itself is designed for optimal performance with the included components. Compatibility with third-party accessories may vary, but the included accessories are sufficient for most meat processing needs.
Pros and Cons of LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder
Pros
- Efficient Dual Grind System: Achieves optimal texture in a single pass, saving time and effort.
- Powerful 1 HP Motor: Handles large quantities of meat without bogging down.
- Durable Stainless-Steel Construction: Ensures long-term reliability and hygienic operation.
- Generous Accessory Package: Includes multiple grinding plates and stuffing tubes for versatile meat processing.
- Easy to Clean and Maintain: Simplifies the meat processing experience.
Cons
- Heavy and bulky, making it less portable than smaller grinders.
- Can be noisy during operation.
Who Should Buy LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder?
The LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder is perfect for serious hunters, home butchers, and homesteaders who regularly process large quantities of meat. It is also ideal for small-scale food businesses that require a reliable and efficient grinder. Anyone who values speed, consistency, and durability will appreciate this machine.
However, if you only occasionally grind small amounts of meat, a smaller, less expensive grinder might suffice. Those with limited storage space or physical limitations might also find the LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder too cumbersome. A must-have accessory is a good quality meat lug to catch the ground product.
Conclusion on LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder
The LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder is an outstanding machine that delivers on its promises of speed, efficiency, and quality. The dual grind system is a game-changer, producing consistent results in a single pass. The powerful motor and durable construction ensure long-term reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about processing their own meat.
The price of $799.99 is justified by its performance, durability, and included accessories. I wholeheartedly recommend the LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder to anyone looking to upgrade their meat processing capabilities. Take your meat processing to the next level, and invest in the LEM Products #22 Big Bite Dual Grind Meat Grinder today!