LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS Review

The Most Honest LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS Review Online

My quest for the perfect coarse grind began with a deep desire to elevate my homemade sausage and burger game. While my existing grinder performed admirably for finer grinds, it lacked the ability to produce that satisfying, hearty texture for chili and stew meats. I needed a solution that would provide a significantly coarser output without compromising on quality or introducing excessive waste.

After considerable research into various grinder accessories, the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS emerged as a strong contender. Its advertised 12mm plate holes promised exactly the kind of coarseness I was seeking. The build quality, specifically the Salvinox SS designation, suggested a durable and rust-resistant material, a critical factor for longevity in a kitchen appliance accessory.

Initially, I considered generic grinder plates, but my experience with other LEM Products components instilled confidence in their adherence to stringent manufacturing standards. The prospect of a single, well-crafted plate designed to enhance the grinder’s capabilities was appealing, and the price point of $45.99 seemed reasonable for a specialized, high-quality component. My first impression upon receiving the plate was one of solid heft and precise machining; the stainless steel finish felt robust and clean.

Real-World Testing: Putting LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS to the Test

My initial testing occurred right on my kitchen workbench, a familiar environment for any serious home cook or workshop enthusiast. I loaded my meat grinder with pre-chilled chuck roast, the kind of cut that benefits immensely from a coarser grind for optimal texture in burgers and sausages. The plate slipped into place with a satisfying snugness, indicating proper fitment with my #20/22 grinder.

The first run was eye-opening; the grinder chewed through the meat with surprising ease, producing unmistakably coarse particles. I ran about 5 pounds of meat through it in about 10 minutes, and the plate performed consistently without any signs of clogging or overheating of the grinder motor itself. It was genuinely intuitive to use, essentially a direct swap for my existing finer plates.

After a few months of regular use, averaging at least two grinding sessions per month, this LEM Products plate has proven its mettle. I’ve used it for everything from pork shoulder for pulled pork to venison for chili, and the results have been consistently excellent. The 12mm plate holes have maintained their integrity, showing no discernible wear that would affect grind consistency.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse under hot water and a scrub with a stiff brush usually suffices, followed by thorough drying to prevent any moisture buildup. I’ve intentionally subjected it to slightly moist conditions before drying on occasion, and thankfully, there have been no rust spots whatsoever. Compared to some older, less robust plates I’ve used from lesser-known brands, the Salvinox SS material is a clear differentiator, offering superior resistance to corrosion and maintaining a smooth operational surface.

First Use Experience

My testing ground was my own kitchen, specifically my workbench where I frequently process game and bulk meats for various culinary projects. The environment is typically clean but can sometimes see minor splashes of grease or moisture during intensive processing. I tested the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS with beef chuck and wild boar, meats known for their sinew and connective tissues, which can challenge finer plates.

The plate fit perfectly into my #20/22 grinder head, requiring no force or modification. Performance was immediate and impressive, producing a wonderfully coarse grind ideal for rustic sausages and hearty burger patties. There was no significant lag or stuttering, even when feeding larger chunks of meat.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, I’ve put approximately 30 pounds of various meats through this coarse plate. It has consistently delivered the desired texture, transforming tougher cuts into perfectly ground ingredients for chili and stews. The stainless steel construction has shown zero signs of rust or pitting, even after occasional air drying.

Maintenance is as simple as rinsing and drying, which is a significant plus for any kitchen tool. Compared to older, blued steel plates I’ve owned that would show superficial rust if not meticulously maintained, this Salvinox SS plate offers a much more forgiving user experience. Its reliability in maintaining grind quality over repeated uses has been a notable benefit.

Breaking Down the Features of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS

Specifications

The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS are a critical component for achieving a coarse grind, specifically measuring 12mm (approximately 1/2 inch) for their plate holes. The overall plate diameter is a substantial 3-1/4 inches, ensuring it mates correctly with standard #20/22 grinder heads. Crafted from high-grade Stainless Steel, this plate is designed for exceptional durability and resistance to rust and corrosion.

The hubless design is a practical feature that allows the plate to be used on either side, maximizing its lifespan and simplifying its orientation during use. LEM Products manufactures these plates to their stringent standards for hardness, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of grinding tougher meats without prematurely dulling. The quantity provided in this package is one plate, intended as a direct replacement or addition to a grinder set.

Performance & Functionality

This grinder plate excels at its primary function: producing a coarse grind. The 12mm holes are perfectly sized for applications like chunky chili, rustic sausage, and burger patties that benefit from a less refined texture. It effectively processes meat without turning it into a paste, which is a common issue with finer plates when aiming for a coarser result.

Its key strength lies in its ability to maintain this coarse output consistently, even with sinewy or fatty cuts. The main weakness, if one could call it that, is its specialization; it’s not designed for fine grinds. However, for its intended purpose, its performance is outstanding and meets all expectations for a coarse grind plate.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS is centered on robust functionality. The stainless steel material gives it a solid, premium feel, and the precise machining of the 1/2 inch plate holes is evident. Its hubless nature means there’s no central protrusion, making it easy to handle and ensuring it sits flush within the grinder housing.

Ergonomically, it’s a simple component; its ease of use comes from its perfect fit and the intuitive nature of grinder plate swaps. There’s no real learning curve here, just a direct application. The smooth, polished surface of the stainless steel also contributes to easier cleaning, a welcome design consideration.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its stainless steel construction and LEM’s reputation for quality, this grinder plate is built for longevity. Under normal use for grinding meats, I anticipate it will last for many years, likely outlasting the grinder motor itself. The material is inherently resistant to corrosion, making maintenance minimal.

The primary maintenance requirement is thorough drying after washing to prevent any water spots, though actual rust is highly unlikely. Potential failure points are minimal for a solid metal plate; the edges of the holes could theoretically chip or wear down over extreme usage, but this is improbable with typical home use.

Accessories and Customization Options

This product is a single component, the grinder plate itself, and does not come with additional accessories. However, its primary customization benefit is that it offers a distinct grind size compared to other plates. It is designed specifically for LEM grinders, ensuring compatibility, but it is also likely to fit other #20/22 grinder heads from different manufacturers.

Its value lies in providing a specific grind size that might not be included in a grinder’s default set of plates. For those seeking a truly coarse texture, this plate is the specific solution.

Pros and Cons of LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS

Who Should Buy LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS?

This grinder plate is an ideal purchase for home butchers, hunters, and serious home cooks who frequently process wild game or prepare dishes like hearty chili, rustic sausages, or coarse burgers. If you’ve found your current grinder plates too fine for your liking and crave that satisfying, chunky texture, this is exactly what you need. It’s particularly beneficial for anyone looking to improve the texture of their ground meat for specific recipes.

Anyone seeking a fine or medium grind should look elsewhere, as this plate is strictly for coarseness. If you are primarily grinding for pâtés or very smooth sausage, this would not be the correct plate for your needs. A good meat grinder is the primary complementary item, and ensuring your grinder is compatible with #20/22 plates is essential.

Conclusion on LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS

The LEM Products #20/22 Grinder Plates 12mm, Salvinox SS is an outstanding accessory that delivers precisely what it promises: a superior coarse grind. Its robust stainless steel construction ensures durability and resistance to the elements, while the thoughtful hubless design maximizes its utility. For its price of $45.99, you’re investing in a component that significantly enhances the versatility of your meat grinder, making a tangible difference in the texture of your homemade ground meats.

I wholeheartedly recommend this grinder plate to anyone looking to achieve a truly coarse texture for their culinary creations. It’s a testament to LEM Products’ commitment to quality, providing a reliable and effective solution for a specific grinding need that many home processors will appreciate. If you value texture and consistency in your ground meats, this plate is a worthwhile addition to your kitchen arsenal.