Let’s Talk About LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel
The LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel might seem like a simple component, but for anyone serious about home butchery or sausage making, it’s a crucial piece of equipment. LEM Products is a well-known and respected name in the meat processing industry, and this grinder plate promises durability and consistent performance. I’ve been processing game and making sausage for over a decade, so I’ve seen my fair share of grinder plates, both good and bad, and understand the importance of a quality plate to avoid frustrating experiences.
I recently decided to upgrade my aging grinder plates after noticing inconsistent grinds and worrying signs of rust on my old carbon steel plates. My primary goal was to find a durable, stainless steel plate that would provide a consistent, coarse grind suitable for summer sausage, salami, and snack sticks. The LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel, with its 6mm (1/4in) holes and stainless steel construction, seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel and clean finish of the plate. The stainless steel felt substantial, and the precisely drilled 6mm holes looked consistent and free of burrs. Compared to my old, thinner plates, this LEM Products plate felt like a significant upgrade in terms of build quality. It felt heavier than my old plates that are similarly sized.
I considered plates from Weston and Cabelas, but I ultimately chose the LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel because of LEM’s reputation for quality and the overwhelmingly positive reviews regarding the durability of their stainless steel products. I was hoping for a significant improvement in grind consistency and a longer lifespan compared to my old carbon steel plates. Early on, the product made me excited to put it to use and create some summer sausage.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel came during my annual deer processing weekend. I used the plate to grind about 20 pounds of venison and pork fat for summer sausage. The plate performed admirably, producing a consistent, coarse grind that was perfect for the recipe. It was used in a garage environment.
The plate handled both the venison and pork fat with ease, even when grinding partially frozen meat. Cleanup was also a breeze; the stainless steel construction made it easy to wash and sanitize the plate without worrying about rust. There were no issues during first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it to grind everything from deer and elk to pork and beef, and it consistently delivers a uniform, coarse grind. There are no signs of wear or tear on the plate surface or around the holes.
Maintenance is simple: I wash the plate with hot, soapy water immediately after use, sanitize it with a food-grade sanitizer, and then dry it thoroughly before storing it. Unlike my old carbon steel plates, there’s no need to oil this plate to prevent rust. Compared to my previous experiences with carbon steel plates, the LEM Products stainless steel plate is a huge improvement in terms of durability and ease of maintenance. It outperforms my old plates in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel
Specifications
The LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and longevity.
- It features a 6mm (1/4 inch) hole size, ideal for coarse grinding applications. This is perfect for making sausages like summer sausage, salami, pepperoni, and snack sticks.
- The plate has a 2-1/8in (2.125 inch) diameter, fitting standard #5 meat grinders. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of grinders commonly used for home meat processing.
- It is constructed from high-quality stainless steel, which provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. This is essential for maintaining food safety and ensuring a long lifespan.
- The plate is hubless and can be used on either side, extending its lifespan. This thoughtful design feature allows for even wear and tear.
- LEM Products manufactures this plate to stringent standards for hardness and quality, assuring long-lasting performance. This commitment to quality ensures consistent results.
These specifications are critical for delivering a consistent grind, resisting corrosion, and providing a long service life. The stainless steel construction is particularly important, as it prevents rust and makes the plate easy to clean and sanitize, vital for maintaining food safety.
Performance & Functionality
The LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel excels at its primary job: producing a consistent, coarse grind. It effortlessly grinds meat, fat, and even partially frozen ingredients, maintaining a uniform texture ideal for sausage making. The grind is accurate and consistent.
The plate’s strengths lie in its durability, ease of cleaning, and consistent performance. However, it is specifically designed for coarse grinding, so it’s not suitable for applications requiring a finer grind. It exceeds my expectations given the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel features a simple, functional design. It is constructed from heavy-duty stainless steel. The plate feels solid and well-made in hand, inspiring confidence in its long-term durability.
There is virtually no learning curve associated with using this grinder plate. It is user-friendly and simple to install.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures that the LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel will last for years with proper care. The stainless steel is highly durable. The plate is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it much more durable than carbon steel alternatives.
Maintaining the plate is easy: simply wash it with hot, soapy water after each use, sanitize it, and dry it thoroughly. There are no special maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it can be paired with other LEM Products grinder accessories, such as grinder knives and stuffing tubes, to enhance its functionality. It does not have further customization options.
The plate is compatible with any #5 meat grinder that accepts standard-sized plates, making it a versatile addition to any home meat processing setup.
Pros and Cons of LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Consistent 6mm coarse grind is perfect for making summer sausage, salami, pepperoni, and snack sticks.
- Hubless design allows for use on either side, extending the plate’s lifespan.
- Easy to clean and sanitize, making it a hygienic choice for food processing.
- Compatible with standard #5 meat grinders, offering versatility and ease of use.
Cons
- Only suitable for coarse grinding; not ideal for applications requiring a finer grind.
- May require replacement of grinder knife for optimal performance, adding to the overall cost.
Who Should Buy LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel?
The LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel is perfect for home sausage makers, hunters who process their own game, and anyone who regularly grinds meat for coarse sausage recipes. It will benefit the folks that want to make summer sausage. Its durability and consistent grind make it an excellent investment for those who prioritize quality and longevity.
This product is not ideal for those who primarily need a fine grind or for those who only occasionally grind meat. These people should consider another product. A matching LEM Products #5 grinder knife is a must-have accessory for optimal performance.
Conclusion on LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel
The LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel is a well-built, durable, and reliable grinder plate that delivers consistent results. Its stainless steel construction ensures longevity and ease of maintenance, while its 6mm holes produce a perfect coarse grind for a variety of sausage recipes. The price is justified, given the quality of materials and build.
I wholeheartedly recommend this grinder plate to anyone serious about home meat processing. Upgrade your grinder today with the LEM Products #5 Grinder Plates 6mm, Stainless Steel and experience the difference a quality plate can make!