Commercial quality grinder for the home that fits well in the kitchen and is ideally suited for making espresso coffee
Positive Product Points
Rugged design Stepless worm gear grind adjustment Power cord exits from under machine Chrome plated exterior housing Quiet
Negative Product Points
Doser throws grinds slightly to left Bent wire porta filter platform is cheap looking and doesn't work all that well The black on black numbers on the grind setting collar are difficult to read and of little use
Detailed Commentary
The M4 was purchased to replace my Rocky. I was looking for a grinder that was a more suitable companion for the Anita I owned at the time in terms of both aesthetics and quality. I wanted stepless adjustments that could be changed precisely and predictably. The worm gear adjusting mechanism provides that allowing me to tweak the grind quite easily. I was also considering the Mazzer Mini but for my needs the M4 was the better choice. It is used exclusively for espresso. I never need to change my grind settings by much.
The M4 is a heavy duty machine. It runs very quietly. I learned this the hard way shortly after I purchased it when I accidentally left it running. About 20 minutes later it started making noise. By that time the case was too hot to touch. I was sure that I had destroyed the motor. Happily, once it cooled down, it ran as good as new. Four years later, it is still running like a new machine. I do understand now why the Mini power switch has a timer. It would eliminate accidents like that.
The burrs have proven to be durable. There has been no degradation in the grind after four years of use, say 250 to 300 lbs of coffee.
I was on the bench in deciding purchase the M4, having a hard time convincing myself it would be much of an improvement over the Rocky. I asked Chris if he thought I would notice that much difference between the two. He told me that the M4 would be the last grinder I would ever have to buy. So far this has turned out to be the case. I have not felt a temptation to upgrade to something more expensive or exotic. The m4 suits my needs perfectly.
This grinder was one that had been returned to Chris Coffee, most likely a buyers remorse. Whatever the reason, their loss was my gain plus it was offered for a reduced price.
Buying Experience
As most reviewers who have done business with Chris Coffee have noted, it just doesn't get any better. On a scale of 1 to 10, Chris Coffee gets a 10+.
