Everything worth pursuing should be worth the effort. Give yourself the time to learn how to use the HG-1 properly and you’ll be rewarded with excellent grounds capable of producing outstanding espresso.

Learning to use the HG-1 is similar to learning to use a handsaw. Both require a modicum of strength and skill. You have to start with a good stroke, maintain a steady beat, hold the saw properly, and focus on the task at hand. If you rush, the end of the saw starts to wiggle and shake, and you end up binding the blade. But with a little practice, you soon develop a smooth and steady rhythm and the process becomes second nature.

The HG-1 follows the same principle. You have to start by turning the flywheel slowly, keep a steady pace, maintain even pressure on the handles, and focus on the task at hand. If you rush, the machine will hop on the counter, and you’ll end up stalling the grinder. But once you get the hang of it and find the sweet spot, you’ll be able to spin the flywheel like a record player.

Helping you on the path to achieving quality results with the HG-1 grinder are the following pages. We recommend familiarizing yourself with the contents before embarking on your trip.

The HG-1 is a hand grinder. No plugs, motors, or switches. And like all hand tools the HG-1 requires some effort, patience, and skill to operate. Be it a saw, paintbrush, chef’s knife, or grinder, the craftsman and artist has to learn to use them in order to get the most out of the tool.

The HG-1 is a tool that provides you with the best raw ingredients required in making excellent coffee. It is not a push button solution that takes the effort out of making an espresso. As a craftsman, it’s up to you to manipulate the ingredients in order to achieve excellent results. It’s a choice that some gladly make, and it’s the same reasoning that we choose to drive manual transmission cars over automatics, and prefer lever over pump espresso machines.

In order to get the best out of the grinder, we have a couple of simple routines which add a few seconds to the average home barista’s routine. These steps shouldn’t be considered chores, but rather part of the ritual. For those looking for a more automated experience, there are always other options. It’s our belief that these rituals and routines keep you in touch with your coffee, and give you a better understanding of the how and why of pulling a great shot. And in some ways, they have the potential to make you a better barista.

If you’ve made it this far you’re probably looking for more information. Read on to see what other customers think of the HG-1 Grinder and see how far around the world it’s traveled. And if you’re really interested, check out the dimensions page to see how well the HG-1 will fit on your kitchen countertop.