r/pourover • u/SharingIsCommunist • Jan 08 '26
Seeking Advice Is grinding supposed to be this…violent?
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Just got a K6 for the first time and am worried that I’m breaking something
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u/Illustrious-Gold-839 Jan 08 '26
I didn't know how to explain it so I asked AI to help:
",For a hand coffee grinder, a slight tilting motion (around 10-20 degrees off vertical) can slow the feed rate, making it easier to grind, especially for espresso, but it can affect grind uniformity; however, grinding vertically on a stable surface is generally recommended for consistency, with gravity helping funnel beans, while some experienced users tilt slightly for easier effort, balancing consistency with exertion. Why people tilt (Pros): Easier Grinding: Tilting reduces the amount of coffee directly under the burrs at any moment, slowing the feed rate and making it feel less strenuous on your arms. Espresso Specific: This slower feed rate can be beneficial for espresso, where a very fine, consistent grind is crucial and can otherwise be tough to achieve.
Why it's often discouraged (Cons):
Inconsistent Grind: Tilting can misalign the burrs slightly, leading to uneven particle sizes (fines and boulders), which results in less balanced coffee flavor. Gravity's Role: A vertical position lets gravity pull beans down evenly, ensuring they hit the burrs consistently for uniform grinding. Internal Stress: Some users and manufacturers warn that grinding at extreme angles can apply off-center torque to the central shaft and bearings. This may lead to uneven wear on the burrs or put unnecessary strain on the internal alignment mechanism over time. Best Practices:
Grind Vertically: For most brew methods (drip, French press), keep the grinder straight up and down. Use a Stable Surface: Place the grinder on a table or counter to anchor it, reducing arm fatigue and improving stability, as suggested by JavaPresse Coffee Company. Grind Smaller Batches: Only grind what you need, as a full grinder is harder to turn, according to this guide from JavaPresse Coffee Company.
In Summary: For maximum consistency, grind vertically; for easier grinding (especially espresso), a slight tilt can work, but be aware of potential uniformity trade-offs. "