This optional/replacement handle is flat stainless steel with laser engraved, graduated markings from 110mm operative length (OL) to 140mm (we experimented with even longer handles, but found that the result was diminishing returns - it became awkward to use). OL is center of axle to center of knob. The handle includes a BIG Over-Engineered Knob (BOEK). The machined POM knob is made in 2 parts, with a removable top cap which allows access to install it. It has 2 roller bearings on the shaft. The BOEK measures 40mm tall, 40mm across the top. The body is completely smooth & pleasant to hold & use. The handle fits only the Lido OG Manual Coffee Grinder
Our standard OEM handle for the Lido OG has an OL of 100mm (4") from center of axle to center of knob. Historically, one of the big questions people have about manual coffee grinders is speed: "How long does it take to grind X amount of coffee beans?" Grinder speed has been equated with grinder desirability - i.e., nobody wants a slow grinder... The 100mm OL allows the user to turn the burr as fast as they personally can, and provides enough power to overcome bean grinding resistance while using a minimal amount of arm movement when grinding with the OG as prescribed. In other words, this length has a good balance of speed and efficiency for grinding most coffee beans, for most people. The adjustable length handle is for everyone else!
Like everything else in Coffee, there's more to it... As more & more people use manual coffee grinders, particularly for espresso, speed can still be important, but the relationship between grinder speed and the production of fines is becoming recognized in the field of Specialty Coffee, in both manual AND electric grinders. A longer handle allows the user to turn the burr while grinding at a slower speed, and can be beneficial for grinding light roast, or very hard beans. Keep in mind - the total amount force required to grind coffee beans is the same, no matter how long the handle is, and it's a trade off - the turning arm may feel like it's doing less work, but the hand holding the grinder is working more... Also, particularly with espresso, one should be aware that changing the grinding speed will change the flow results for the espresso shot, often requiring a change in the grind size setting. But a variable length handle can allow for some interesting experimentation!
Laser Engraved Handle has BOEK installed, and comes with a Delrin disk to apply UNDER the OG handle Top Cap to prevent scratching of the stainless steel.
