The LEM #22 Big Bite 1.0 HP Meat Grinder stands out as a robust and efficient solution for those requiring significant meat processing capabilities. Designed to handle large volumes, this grinder is a valuable asset for hunters and individuals who frequently prepare ground meat and sausages. Despite its substantial cost and size, its superior performance, advanced safety features, and integrated sausage-making functions position it as a top-tier investment for demanding applications. Its powerful motor and durable construction ensure longevity and reliability, making the meat grinding process quick and straightforward.
This comprehensive review delves into the grinder's key attributes, including its setup, maintenance, operational efficiency, and safety mechanisms. It also examines the practical advantages of its versatile plates and sausage-making attachments, providing insights into optimizing its use for various culinary needs. By comparing it with less expensive models, the review highlights why the LEM #22, with its reputation for quality and excellent customer support, offers a compelling value proposition for users who prioritize performance and durability in their meat processing equipment.
Effortless Operation and Setup: A Deep Dive into the LEM #22 Big Bite Meat Grinder's Usability
The LEM #22 Big Bite Meat Grinder is engineered for both ease of assembly and cleaning, offering a straightforward user experience despite its comprehensive set of components. Users can quickly connect the grinder head to the motor, insert the auger, blade, and desired steel plate, and then secure everything with a retaining ring. This process, including attaching the meat tray, can be completed in under a minute, streamlining preparation. Disassembly is equally rapid, allowing for thorough cleaning of every part, which is crucial for hygiene and maintaining the grinder's efficiency. The inclusion of a storage drawer for unused parts further enhances organizational convenience.
Operating the grinder is remarkably efficient, thanks to its powerful 1-horsepower motor and "Big Bite" auger, which can process up to 13 pounds of meat per minute. This speed ensures that large quantities of meat are ground rapidly, often as quickly as the user can feed the machine. The grinder’s design allows for continuous, fast processing, only requiring manual assistance with the meat stuffer if the meat tray isn’t heavily loaded. This efficiency significantly reduces the time spent on grinding, making prep and cleanup the most time-consuming aspects of the process. Furthermore, its surprisingly quiet operation allows for comfortable conversation even while the machine is running.
Safety, Versatility, and Value: Maximizing Your Investment in the LEM #22 Big Bite Meat Grinder
Safety is a paramount concern for the LEM #22 Big Bite Meat Grinder, featuring a well-protected power button that requires firm pressure to activate, preventing accidental startups. For enhanced safety, users are advised to always unplug the unit when assembling, disassembling, or performing any maintenance. A crucial safety feature is the integrated guard in the meat tray, which prevents hands from reaching the auger, accommodating only the provided meat stuffer. While this guard is non-removable, it effectively mitigates risks associated with operating such powerful equipment, demonstrating LEM’s commitment to user protection and investment security, further supported by an internal circuit breaker.
The grinder’s versatility is extended through its various accessories, including three stainless steel plates (4.5mm, 10mm, and a stuffing plate) and three plastic stuffing tubes (5/8", 1", and 1-3/8"). These allow for a range of grinding consistencies and sausage sizes, from fine grinds to large brats. The "Big Bite" technology, characterized by an auger designed to take in more meat and prevent clogging, contributes to the grinder's speed and efficiency, making it ideal for processing entire animals. Despite its higher price point, the LEM #22’s stainless steel construction, durable motor, 5-year warranty, and excellent customer service underpin its value, making it a reliable, long-term investment for those with significant meat processing needs.