Testimonials
- Colm Quinn - Dublin, Ireland - Deluxe tamper for La Pavoni Europiccolo
- I live in Ireland but could not find a tamper retailer or fabricator in Ireland or the UK, so i went on the web and found Greg. The ordering process and payment was easy and it arrived safely.
We had some measurement problems that meant that I had to send it back but it was resolved and returned (as quickly as if it had been down the road rather than the other side of the world). The tamper is beautiful and the wood chosen compliments my rosewood fittings, the engraving is quite neat too! But most of all, it's a tight fit in the basket and works perfectly. can't say more than that.
Overall Score: 9/10
- Michael Lacey - NSW - Deluxe tamper for ECM Giotto
- Beautifil craftsmanship. A piece of art. Adds to the overall experience if you think of your coffee making as a sensual and theatrical daily event. The only thing that exceeds the quality of the tamper is Greg's efficiency. He answers queries promptly and in detail. A cottage industry that deserves your support. 100% recommendation.
Overall Score: 10/10
- Brett McLachlan - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Expobar Office
- I found Greg to be helpful all the way through the process. My initial enquiries via email were responded to quickly and helpfully. Extremely prompt service, I sent my basket from Sydney on Monday and had it back with my tamper to suit by that Friday. Was pleased with the tamper as soon as i unpacked it, was even better than I expected. I bought the red gum handle and am happy with my choice.
I am a complete novice and this is my first tamper. The lines make it easy to get a consistent tamp which I have found helpful to know I am dosing the same each time and know it will fit under the showerscreen before I put the portafilter into place. All of the coffee fanatics I have shown this tamper to have loved it. I have let others use it a couple of time with my basket and they were hooked on it straight away. Greg produces a great product and is great to deal with.
Overall Score: 10/10 - NewEnglandCliff - NH, USA - Deluxe tamper for Salvatore
- Great tamper and top order experience. the tamper fits perfectly. I have many tampers and none of finer quality than this. It's a substantial and artfully crafted tool. Thank you Greg!
Overall Score: 9.5/10
- Mark Thornton - QLD - Deluxe tamper for Nuovo Simonelli
- A truly functional, quality piece of engineering! All i have done is unpack the tamper (which was packed with soft packaging securely) together with my returned baskets, and test it!. The result(?).. perfect pour first time around! The whole purchase (from original enquiry, ordering, sending my baskets,payment, and delivery) only took 6 days! I was kept informed all throughout the process.. wonderful communication also.
All in all, i can't rate this experience highly enough! The tamper is an absolute work of art!
Thanks
Overall Score: 10/10 - Barry - VIC - Deluxe tamper for ECM Giotto
- Greg Pullman's processing of our order for one of his superb tampers was Rolls-Royce, old fashioned, travelling first class from beginning to end. several queries were handled as though i was his biggest client. What a delight. And what a tamper - tailor made for our baskets. The horizontal lines ensure even tamping, to enable even syrup flow.
Our truly handsome redgum Pullman tamper is a beautiful piece of redgum and gleaming metal, that blends perfectly with our sparkling ECM Giotto Premium + Rocky, for the making truly great coffees. We are grateful to own it. Greg Pullman and his product have our unreserved 100% recommendation. A big thanks.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Sue Farrugia - VIC - Deluxe tamper for La Marzocco baskets
- We had lots on enquiries about the tamper; not so much the tamper itself but about the baskets we had and the one we wanted to buy and Greg was very helpful with his responses to our e-mails before deciding to purchase one of his tampers.
The ordering and payment process was simple; but I managed to key in the wrong account number but we managed not to have to wait too long before our baskets and tamper were delivered to us and the tamper looks great. The tamper works great and our coffees are much improved from the first use. Greg has been great and responded promptly to all our questions.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Joe Surace - VIC - Deluxe tamper for La Cimbali M21
- I think the whole experience was fantastic and very professional. Everything went as you stated, and the finished product was of a very high standard. perfect actually. Delivery time was within the time frame specified and the service I recieved and prompt responses would have me returing as a future customer, with no hesitation for referals.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Tom Bainbridge - Auckland, NZ - Deluxe tamper for Nemox Napoletana
- The tamper is great. I am very happy with my purchase. The sizing is an exact fit, and it is easy achieve a consistant tamp via the indicator rings. it also looks good on the kitchen bench which is a bonus. I would advise anyone who is dissasisfied with their italian pump machine to invest in a good grinder and one of these tampers, (plus fresh coffee!) before looking to upgrade. By following advice on www.home-barista.com and in particular by using the Weiss distribution technique as explained there, i have been able to achieve a great pour and excellent results from my machine.
Prior to recieving Greg's tamper I had been using a poor fitting, light weight aluminium tamper that was the best that i could find at the time. even with a good grinder and fresh coffee i just could not get a good tamp and top quality results. now i am happy! Greg's service was prompt and friendly and he also gave me some advice re my machine which was an added bonus and much appreciated. Greg is a top guy to deal with.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Daniel - not supplied - Deluxe tamper
- Brilliant life-changing device. Minor issue - had trouble removing the basket that was jammed onto the tamper for postage.
Dan - they're sometimes loosely assembled but I've not heard of them jamming before. Will investigate how to prevent in future. Thanks. - Greg
Overall Score: 9.5/10 - Francois - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Rancilio Silvia
- Beautifully manufactured tamper, perfect vanilla, best results and great service (incl. communication, delivery, special wishes, etc.) - 110% satisfaction! Keep going Greg
Overall Score: 10/10 - Scott Camac - TAS - Deluxe tamper for Expobar Brutus (
see tamper) - I found Greg to be swift to respond to my inquires and always helpful throughout the process as i was deciding which one i wanted. The odering process was quick and easy and the delivery fast. When i received the tamper i was amazed at the high quality feel it had and when i tamped i found i only had to do it once- it so closely matched the basket i didn't need to retamp! Thanks greg- I'm impressed beyond expectation.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Allen Hull - Margaret River, WA - Deluxe tamper for Nuova Simonelli
- a very professional service. immediate feedback to queries, and turn around to and fro from perth took, i think, 8 days. the tamper arrived in my mail box the day following your email advising that it had been sent.
i have to admit that i was somewhat suspicious that the tamper would not have a great effect on the coffee i made, but have been proved absolutely wrong!. i was having great difficulty in making consistent cups of coffee, to the extent of actually thinking about ditching the simonelli and reverting to the baby gaggia. some cups were ok, some were too weak, and some over-extracted. the tamper has completely fixed these variations and my coffee making now produces pleasingly consistent cups with wonderful flavour and no bitterness. i was also thinking of buying one of the 'clicking' tampers, but now have absolutely no need to. and of course the pullman tamper is a lovely thing to both use and admire. thanks for such a great product.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Andrew - VIC - Deluxe tamper for ECM Giotto
- a)my enquiries were responded to swift and fast
b)ordering was simple..and i didnt send my baskets out(vernier caliper helped)
c)ordered thurs arrived tues
d)quality is better than fatastic and the asthetics are second to none
e)like a piston moving in a engine cylinder with no coffee up the sides of the basket...absolute precision to the mm
f)greg happens to be engineering a marvle, made to order...and his service shines like his tamper
Overall Score: 10/10 - Cedric - Singapore - Deluxe tamper for Silvia
- from ordering, making payment to the time i received my tamper is easy and convenient. can't keep my hands off the tamper the moment i received it. hand crafted very much to my expectation. tempted to order a couple more!
Overall Score: 10/10 - Mark Newcombe - TAS - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Factory
- after reading every one of the testimonials i decided to buy a red gum pullman deluxe tamper, like many other's who have written on this site i was stunned when the tamper was unveiled from it's well wrapped little box. i am a function over aesthetics kind of guy but this piece of engineering is a work of art!
i was relieved to see my double basket had made it back in good order, i had considered just sending the measurements to greg but very the reason that i was buying a pullman tamper was to get the very best out of my coffee experience. how did it fit? "like a glove" doesn't even come close.
the fit is so good that when i tamp there isn't room for a single coffee ground to squeeze by. if you are reading this and you're still deciding whether to send your basket off & live with your other basket for 1-2 weeks? yes you can! "you must" you need to!! i am sure measuring your own tamper and sending that info to greg will result in a good fit but that's not why you're here - is it? you're after the best.
this is a two week review which i believe to be a good sampling of coffee goodness to let you know how it affects my shots. there have been reviews on this site that claim better coffee from the tamper. i haven't found this to be the case but the pullman does make a big difference to my daily coffee and this is why. essentially on the very best days with my old tamper - you know the ones. you wake up and make that first coffee of the day, the pour is good, the smell terrific, the crema is that great nut brown and your first mouthful brings a smile to the soul. my old tampa brought one of these glory shots along about 1 in 7, this is where the pullman makes its mark, i have one of those shots about 1 in 3 now! the 2 in 3 shots that don't make it are still far better than i ever get at my local cafe. in my judgement the pullman will not give you a better shot of coffee but it will give you a far more consistent shot and that makes the world of difference.
the ergonomics are fantastic, heavy at first but by the time you have tamped your first coffee you'll have the feel of it. the rings make a level tamp child's play. the pullman looks great next to my all chrome gaggia factory g106 lever pull.
greg was a pleasure to deal with and quick with his e-mails.
thanks greg, if you ever make a blackheart sassafras handle i'll buy a second tampa just because i can.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Rune @ ristereik.dk - Denmark - Deluxe tampers for Rancilio, Elektra, Vibiemme
- got two for my self and now i came back for three more to serve as presents and it's been a great succes. for my own use and my three friends. excellent tampers.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Mark Scotney - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Bezerra BZ99S
- came across greg's tampers reading the various coffee forums and decided to take the plunge and make a serious upgrade from a plastic tamper supplied with machine.i think the true beauty of these tampers is greg's calibrating them to match portafilter baskets.extremely quick turnaround time for this
standard of tailored product (4 days), the wooden handle has seriously good hand feel and looks great. undoubtedly there's a bit of a learning process involved in adjusting coffee grind etc to match the single heavyweight tamp compared to previous tamper but that's all part of the fun and i'm already very happy with the more consistent shots.
overall a great deal with exemplary service.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Fergus Reaper - VIC - Deluxe tamper for Saeco Via Venezia
- i came across the pullman tamper whilst browsing crema magazine's forums looking for info on how to get the best out of my saeco via venezia... the answers seemed to be drop the pressurised porta-filter holder and get a non-pressurised one and a decent tamper...
well, to be honest, the only tamper i considered after having a brief look at the rubbish on offer at a few stores was greg's custom made works of art.
i must say that the web order form was excellent and provided the right information on what was required of me. being able to pay via paypal made it a one minute affair and greg's email communications were excellent. i sent the filter baskets to be measured, and i'm glad i did... i received a perfect fitting tamper that suits both the single and double shot basket and the quality of the unit is just exceptional! the handle, whilst looking elegant, provides an excellent grip.
making the leap from pressurised to non-pressurised porta-filter has been an interesting one. but with a lot of experimenting i am now able to produce a far superior coffee than before.
i thoroughly recommend this product, after all it's only the cost of a few kg's of beans... beans that you'll now be able to do justice to!
Overall Score: 10/10 - Brian Davey - VIC - Deluxe tamper for ECM Giotto
- exquisite tamper. beautiful jarra handle. great feel. made to fit my basket perfectly. the service was excellent.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Stuart - ACT - Deluxe tamper for Silvia
- received my tamper just a couple of days ago, and am delighted with the results. was having some serious difficulties with the plastic tamper delivered with my new silvio, and this tamper works perfectly and looks great as well. the couple of questions i had were answered promptly and the whole manufacture and delivery was very timely. my wife thinks if i get any more obsessive about coffee, the weight of the tamper might also make it useful as a cudgel!
Overall Score: 10/10 - Geoff Rowcroft - VIC - Deluxe tamper for Nemox Cafe Dell Opera
- greg, i love the tamper!
the whole process from initial enquiry to receiving the finished product was seamless. your service was excellent. having used it for a couple of weeks i now understand why it was so important for you to have the filter basket. the tamper is a perfect fit and the end result is in another league when compared to the tamper attached to the machine.
not only that, all our visitors comment on how good it looks.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Polly McGee - TAS - Deluxe tamper for Bezerra
- after observing a lot of very positive feedback across internet coffee fora i purchased a tamper for a friends birthday, he was overjoyed, the service from greg was exceptional, and the product, a personalised checkerboard tamper was a work of art. my partner also purchased a tamper for me for out wedding anniversary, he reports similarly fantastic service, and the personalised jarrah tamper i received is a delight to work with. i am utterly surprised at what a difference it makes to the consistency of my shots. i can unequivocally recommend the pullman tamper as a masterpiece of engineering backed up by a user friendly e-commerce site and committed personal service.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Mike - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Silvia
- great service and communication. couldn't be easier to order! the tamper arrived in less time than i expected and was so excited i couldn't wait to get home and give it a shot... so much so that i even left work early. it is a pleasure to use and i can't imagine how i functioned without one!
wonderful product!
Overall Score: 10/10 - Adam Florence - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Classic
- i stumbled across these tampers via a link from another site. after a few emails back and forth to greg, my filter baskets found their way into his very capable hands. approximately 9-10 days later, a knock at the door heralded the return of my baskets in the company of a very fine tamper.
these tampers are superbly finished, hand-crafted pieces of inanimate beauty. truly, much more appealing is the tamper in the flesh. photo's can only do so much...
what you don't get to appreciate in two dimensions is the weight of the tamper, the attention to detail in the craftsmanship and the stylish sophistication of machined stainless steel. and then there is the touch. it's funny, you'd think that i was somehow connected to greg through what i have just written, but i know him only through conversation and the delivered product.
i love my new pullman tamper (if you haven't already guessed). it looks great, it feels great and it works. if you're looking for a new tamper you will not be disappointed with one of greg's creations. he is friendly, knowledgeable, accomodating and prompt. these tampers are great value.
Overall Score: SCORE/10 - Carsten - Denmark - Deluxe tamper for La Marzocco
- the order and payment procedure went fine, without any problems. i received the tamper after about 1â½ week, which is expected. immideately when i opened it, i could feel the quality. the steel and the red gum with oil finish plays together very well. i asked for a rustic piece, and i am very satisfied with the look. i actually have it on my kitchen table for ornamental purposes as well. the engraving is nice, and greg took a lot of time to get to know how i wanted it.
i am very satisfied with my tamper. i no longer need to knock the tamper against the portafilter to make the grinds fall down the sides before the final tamp.
all in all, a great investment. these beauties lasts forever!
Overall Score: 10/10 - Name withheld - VIC - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Classic
- great product. i especially like the circumferential lines that let you see how far into the basket you have tamped.
Overall Score: 9.5/10 - John - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Silvia
- all is good. just recently managed to start using it with my espresso machine. maybe if an additional accessory (such as a lid for the tamper to sit on when not in use) will be available, that'll be great.
Overall Score: 9/10 - Andrew Lindsay - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Classic
- found your copmany through google searches. very good website that explained the ordering process well. goods were shipped promptly, in excellent condition. service fantastic and tamper looks great.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Patrick Shaddock - Deluxe tamper for Rancilio Silvia
- product: beautiful product, perfect fit into portafilter basket, and the rings assist in even tamping. the only problem now is i don't want to knock the grounds that get pushed up the sides of the basket off with the tamper handle for fear of damaging the jarrah wood.
service: friendly communication, quick delivery.
overall experience: i'm so grateful for stumbling across greg's tampers. i definately reccomend them to other potential buyers.
Overall Score: 9/10 - Pat - QLD - Deluxe tamper for Saeco Via Venezia
- mate what can i say that has not already been mentioned by numerous others........
a quick turnaround 2 weeks from door to door.
a joy to hold and more importantly makes coffee tamping a breeze.
i would not have thought a decent tamp would make such a huge difference. a pullman tamp all the way!!...
well built,strong,solid base well crafted handle.
many thanks....
Overall Score: 10/10 - Lee Nutter - NSW - Deluxe tamper for La Marzocco
- when deciding on my new setup, i factored in enough for one of your tamps due to the excellent reputation they had. i ordered the tamp as soon as i could measure my basket, and was tamping with my new tamp on the monday of the following week. the tamp definitely lives up to expectations, wonderful finish, beautiful aesthetics and perfect fit! the tamper arrived promptly and was well packaged. and greg, i really appreciated chatting via email! really made me feel like a valued customer!
Overall Score: 10/10 - Ian Broadhurst - Cheshire, UK - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Factory
- great product. the other side of the world and yet the easiest ordering and payment i have ever made on the internet. international delivery only 3 days - incredible. work of art that easily stands up next to my factory gaggia. barista not then but maybe now - just love the improved espresso. everything considered this is one of the best buying experiences that i have had on the internet
many regards
ian
Overall Score: 10/10 - Ange - VIC - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Classic
- from the initial enquiry right through to the delivery time i could not fault anything. the tamper was even more appealing in real life. it sure is a work of art. the only negative thing i can say, and it is minor, is that the mail contractor just left it on the front door step without knocking.it might pay to use registered or express post to safeguard your investment.
Overall Score: 9.5/10 - Brett Dennis - NSW - Deluxe tamper for ECM / Bezerra machines
- thanks, greg
i got the tamper today- it is all the testimonials said it would be- beautifully machined and a great fit even with my ± 2mm measurements. is it only my experience that the crema is thicker and longer lasting? i don't think so - i wish you all the best in your 'hobby'- you deserve to do well- you have a great product.
brett dennis
Overall Score: 10/10 - Dean - VIC - Deluxe tamper for ECM Veneziano
- i have recommended these tampers to people that have bought machines from me and finally got around to ordering a tamper for myself. we measured the filter basket and selected the wood for the handle , added some engraving and sent the order. greg was very fast in replying and kept us up to date with the progress and delivery time. when the tamper arrived it was taken out of the box and put to work. it fits the filter basket with microns to spare. it is a pleasure to use!!
Overall Score: 9.5/10 - Andrew - VIC - Deluxe tamper for La Pavoni Europiccolo
- greg's service is excellent. he responded to my emails within a couple of hours every time, and is really friendly. i paid using direct transfer which went very smoothly (accepted within 24 hours). i requested a tamper without sending the filterbasket (at my own risk); however using only a ruler my measurement was innaccurate. i had the tamper altered - there was a 72 hour turn-around between when i sent my only filterbasket and when i received the tamper. i would recommend those considering ordering without sending their filterbasket to reconsider.. it would just be easier that way.
it's a great looking device, with a very heavy base and a smooth domed top that is the perfect size for my hand.
it creates a perfect 'puck' in the filterbasket with very little effort, and there is no way any coffee could get caught in the sides - it's an absolutely perfect fit.
i have a la pavoni lever machine - my model has a non-standard size filterbasket - as i believe many do, so you're pretty much forced to get a custom-made tamper. i spent about $30 trying tampers that didn't fit exactly, but then figured i paid $1000 for the coffee machine, and $400 for the grinder, so $60 for a tamper of this quality just completes the project.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Pamela M - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Rancilio Silvia
- I thought it looked great and it was also heavy enough but it was a toss up between that an a heavier tamper. So happy now with the choice as it is far more gorgeous in real life than I imagined from seeing a picture of it online.
It is excellent to use; the timber feels lovely and it is well balanced and enjoyable to hold because of the design. It is a perfect fit for both baskets. Tamping the coffee is a delight because it is even and simple to use. Greg was great to deal with and the process was quick and easy -(14 days total from the posting of the basket and money order to having the tamper in hand)The price is more than reasonable for this hand made tamper.
I am truly delighted and would happily recommend this product.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Simon Yeo - Malaysia - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Classic ( see tamper)
- Received my Tamper yesterday after a long delay (almost 5 weeks but mostly due to the inept local customs). The ordering was simple as Greg was helpful and very prompt in replying emails. Paypal is easy to use and accept overseas card without any problem. I have to say on the business side, Greg is most professional.
I am surprised at the weight of the tamper. I have been using plastic tamper for a long time and was not used to it at first. But it's just a matter of practice. The greatest improvement for me personally is the speed - now I tamp only once and it's done.
The tamper itself is top class. The Huon Pine is very smooth and is as good as any Huon Pine craft I have. It fits perfectly into both my filter baskets. The carving is not as obvious as I would like but again this is due to my personal font selections.
Overall this is a superb product. Excellent merchant to work with.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Michael Forder - SA - Deluxe tamper for Rancilio Silvia
- My experience with coffee (having matured and taken a leap of faith from brewing good'ol Blend 43) began like with most purchases, a thorough investigation and consumer review check of what's good and what's bad. Trust me - don't read a manufacturer's "glossy" brochure!!.....
Charged with my highly-recommended Rancilio Silvia (after quite a few frustrated returns (4 in fact) of brand-new but faulty Breville Class 800ES machines) i set out to begin my latest interest of coffee brewing, by subjecting my other half to the important job of taste testing.
Keeping in mind, i'm no barista - but judging by the lack of convulsions, the smiles received, my "tester" kept coming back for more. i guess i was doing something right. However, during the process of preparing all different sorts of coffees (including my first attempt at steaming milk which is fun especially when u blast it out of a jug - testimony that the Silvia is one good steam maker!!) - I was quite un-impressed with the poor excuse of tamper included with the Silvia (well i blamed a few dodgy shots to it and convinced the other half a more robust one was required) - so it wasn't long to get the nod to begin another series of investigations and checking consumer reviews.
In a short while, after going back to all the usual "coffee review web sites" - i had a reasonable idea of what to look out for and what not to consider and very quickly narrowed my seaching to Greg's Tampers. After reading all of the reviews and taking particular attention to Greg's "Testimonial" page, i concluded it was worth checking it out further.
Fortunately, being located in Adelaide, SA - i had the opportunity to meet up with Greg (who is also local and i like to support local manufacturing wherever possible), after exchanging many emails on deciding what size would be suitable for the Silvia. Greg mentioned there may be slight variations in the diameters of the single and double baskets and normally this variation could mean one size does not fit another so a properly fitting tamper could be a compromise between baskets.
As i was now keen to get one ASAP, we decided to try one that he had and if it didn't fit properly, we could meet up again and exchange it for another one. The wooden handle was suprisingly easy to handle (not to mention being wooden it didn't absorb or lose heat like a metal one) and as i have a solid Jarrah dining setting, it was an easy match and looks good as well. Something about the ageless beauty of natural wood...
Back on topic - alas, that night was filled with more experimenting (pulling consistant shots that absolutely were a breeze to tamp, not to mention a LOT better frothed milk) and after measuring the inside diameters of both baskets and the tamper decided that a tamper about 0.3mm larger was required for a perfect fit (though the genuine baskets were both a little different). Next day, i emailed Greg and he took back the one i previously had and exchanged it with one that fit the specs I requested. This was tried last night. Happiness all-round.
As far as knowing whether this product is better/worse than others - well i simply cannot say as i haven't compared it to anything apart from the useless plastic one which came with the Silvia. This one fits near perfectly (both baskets) and produces a very even tamp and more importantly a consistant shot. Is it all in the tamper? Probably not, but it is a LOT better than what i have previously used.
Finally, is it good value for money? Well, i'm at the stage of this experience that sometimes "cheap" is NOT the main driver for making a purchase. In my opinion the value of any particular product is the sum of its cost and the service/support available. You could buy cheaper products, but would they come with the same service/support??? Unlikely!! There is truth in the statement "You get what you pay for". The same is with the Silvia and the same applies to Greg's tampers. Stop procrastinating and go get one!!
regards,
Michael
Overall Score: 10/10 - Bill McNamee - NSW - Deluxe tamper for ECM Giotto
- 100% excellent
Overall Score: 10/10 - Steve Leung - Scotland, UK - Deluxe tamper for Rancilio Silvia ( see tamper)
- My initial enquires were regarding overseas delivery charges and my email was answered promptly. The ordering process was very well thought out with clear measurement guidelines for the tamper base. Payment was very straightforward via Paypal (recommended for international orders). The tamper was made very quickly (under 1 week with Greg just back from holiday) and delivery time to the UK was 6 working days.
On arrival, the tamper was well packaged. Just out the box, my first impressions were of a well weighted and beautifully finished tamper. The stainless steel base was flawless and the weight was surprising but I got used to it very quickly. My tamper was the checkerboard pattern and again the finishing was very good. However, some of the segments did not line up perfectly but it is a handmade product. In saying that, it is a lovely design and the wood shows a lot of character. I had the tamper engraved and again, the lettering was perfect.
Compared to my ill fitting (56mm vs. 58.3mm) aluminum tamper, using the Pullman tamper was a joy. The extra weight made tamping so easy. Also I found that using the etched rings were useful in checking the level of the tamp. The head of the tamper felt smooth and warm and fitted well into the palm of my hand (my hand size is small but the head did not feel too big).
Overall, the level of service has been exemplary throughout the whole process. I felt happy in dealing with Greg and felt secure in buying his product overseas.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Andreas M - VIC - Deluxe tamper for La Cimbali M27
- Quick turnaround, good communication via email and extractions have improved considereably compared to using the tamper attached to the grinder.
The tamper is a work of art and fits perfectly.I almost feel guilty using it rather than having it on display.
If there's ever a convex base option please let me know.
Overall Score: 9.5/10 - Matthew Ridley - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Rancilio Silvia
- I think it is quite wonderful when something that is purely functional turns out to be beautiful as well - beautifully designed, beautifully made, that's a Pullman tamper. Every detail shows the quality of craftsmanship so, sitting on top of your machine, or in your hand, it is a beautiful object that also fulfills its function perfectly.
Finally, I have a flat tamper of a proper size and weight, that fits my hand and is extremely comfortable and easy to use. The fine wood handle just invites you to hold it.
I had particular requirements for the size that Greg met precisely and promptly, and it arrived protectively packaged two days after despatch. The whole process couldn't be simpler and it is great value. You don't realise the difference it makes to have a well-designed tamper - whatever your method - until you have used one like this. Probably, it would be a good idea to be able to order different sized handles as well as bases, for larger or smaller hands, but mine fits my hand perfectly.
All in all, a great experience buying this from Greg.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Charlie Grist - Portland, Oregon, USA - Deluxe tamper for QuickMill Anita
- Greg Pullman, Australian tamper man.
Your tamper was waiting for me when I returned from a sailing trip June 11. So it arrived quite quickly despite the interveneing oceans. I appreciate your attentions to get it to me on time even though you were on holiday.
The tamper is a great fit for my baskets. Nice look and feel too. Works much better than what I was using. I very much like the ring markings on the edges of the piston. Helps correct my bad aim. Count me as a satisfied customer.
My condolences that Italy bested Australia in the World Cup today.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Gary Atkins - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Classic
- I found out about this product on the www, and was surprised at how few manufacturers made them to any decent quality.
This tamper is "style meets engineering"
Importantly, the rings in the side of the base help me to end up with a level puck.
Greg Pullman has been helpful and prompt in all my dealings with him.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Tracy Chung - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Classic
- From the time I first made enquiries about the tamper, Greg was very informative and helpful. He was very patient and answered my countless questions as well as making constructive suggestions. The only thing I could fault was the length of the delivery time. It took a little longer than expected due to the wrong postcode on the parcel. Nevertheless, when I received the tamper, it looked beautiful and heavy! The quality of material and workmanship is definitely high. I am one happy customer.
Overall Score: 9.5/10 - Joshua Scott Paul - NSW - Deluxe tamper for San Marino
- It is a really awesome tamper. Little effort needed for a quality tamp. Exceeded my expectations by far. Great craftsmanship.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Name witheld - VIC - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Carezza
- Thanks Greg for the tamper, it has made a big difference, the only disappointment is that, pictures on your website looks like a real red gum handle, mine looks as if it has been stained?
I'm not sure what gives that impression; the handles are all genuine, none are stained at all. As mentioned on the order page the exact colour does vary as is to be expected with naturally-grown products, and different monitor settings can make the colours of web photos look different to what they actually are, so this is the only explanation I can offer. This may be able to be exchanged if the particular colour is not what you were after. -Greg
Other than that I'm very happy with the whole process.
Many thanks will buy again.
Overall Score: 9/10 - Belinda - QLD - Deluxe tamper for Expobar Brutus
- After receiving this tamper I found I had to learn to tamp all over again. I didn't realise just how inefficient my old tamper was. My shots are now more consistant as a result of using this tamper. Not to mention that tamping is now quicker. Very happy. Oh yes, it looks and feels great too :-)
Overall Score: 9/10 - Stu - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Rancilio Silvia
- Excellent, Excellent and Excellent. If you need to read further then here are the details. Greg is very speedy in; answering enquires, discerning needs, keeping you informed of the progress and delivery times. But at the end of the day it is all about the tamper and it is fantastic, beautiful, functional, well designed, well built, an all round class job. Thanks Greg
Overall Score: 10/10 - Jon Lane - TAS - Deluxe tamper for Rancilio Silvia
- Very happy with the tamper; right size and very effective at doing the job!! Love the weight/heft as well as the actual tamper itself (which is just beautiful!) - I tend to break things but I cannot see that ever being a problem with this one. Also happy with the postage, communication and service, so thanks.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Karl P - VIC - Deluxe tamper for Rancilio Silvia
- Thank you GP.
Researching - I seriously believe GP you deserve more airtime. It took me a while to find your brilliant products initially having to contemplate some US alternatives. Coffee snobs and coffeegeek helps, Alan's website too.
Purchasing - a breeze - GP is jolly accomodating to my particular delivery needs. Thanks. Spot on delivery time - delivery man came at 1830 as I arrived home. Beauty. Brilliant packaging, stunning open-the-box experience.
And of course, the tamper. Like a lot of things in life, the very last ounce of brilliance cost - from the best speaker cables, to the finest wines. Using the Pullman is an experience each time. The Jarrah wood is stunning to look at, the feel is hefty, it screams luxury and refinement. No, I know it probably could be cheaper but a stainless steel lifeless cold hearted tamper sells $30 as it is.
If you go to the trouble of owning a decent machine, grinding beans etc, you owe it to yourself to buy one. And I'd hate to sound self congratulating, the coffee does taste better. You can push and compress the ground like no plastics/SS ones could.
The EXPERIENCE makes it all jolly worth every cent.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Happy Tamper - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Saeco Aroma
- Initial enquiries were answered thoroughly and I was kept up to date with when the tamper would be made and when it was being sent. The tamper looks fantastic and the weight of it is great. It definately improves the taste of the coffee. I recommend this to anyone who has an espresso machine.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Andrew - Northern Ireland - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Classic
- I'm really pleased with my new tamper - a Deluxe Red Gum for a Gaggia Classic. Greg was extremely helpful in providing sizing advice and the tamper fits perfectly. Delivery to Northern Ireland was quick - just over a week.
I'm extremely pleased to own one of Greg's tampers. It feels and looks like a quality product in every way. I would recommend them to anyone keen to enhance their espresso making experience.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Mary Heppinstall - VIC - Deluxe tamper for Elektra Microcasa Semiautomatica
- I have read a lot of good things about the Pullman tamper, and I am pleased to report that the tamper I received fullfills my every expectation. The tamper is beautifully finished, perfectly weighted and a pleasure to use. It is amazing how much simpler and more effective my tamp is using the Pullman compared to the previous collection of tampers I have used. The ordering process is simple, and communication with Greg Pullman thorough, and informative.
Overall Score: 10/10 - Cafe Tropez - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Faema E-91 Diplomat
I came across www.coffeetamper.com.au in one of the cafe trade magazines, "Cafe" i think it was. At this point in time I had just taken over a cafe and was playing around with espresso. Initally I didnt think much of the tamper, but after listening and watching experts as well as experimentation, I came to the conclusion that a good fitting solid and comfortable tamper would do both the espresso extraction and my shoulders a world of good. So in a burst of determination and excitement I put my order in for my first tamper. It arrived within a week, and I put it to use immediately.
It felt immediately comfortable and the ability to "polish" and pack the coffee puck made extraction more consistent resulting in a lovely pour that were always a hit and miss affair with the grinder attached tampers you find so often. Add to this the improve in ergonomics that come with using an in-hand tamper instead of a grinder-attached tamper (read less shoulder and upper arm stress) and the benefits of a PULLMAN coffee tamper far outweighs the cost.
They look the part, the do the job so if you are serious about espresso get one of these Pullman tampers.
Overall Score: 9/10- Ken Boucher - VIC - Deluxe tamper for Faema E-91
Happy to say I am now the proud owner of a Greg Pullman tamper.
I had previously graduated from plastic to stainless steel and was happy with the results but was envious after seeing the Pullman tamper. When I changed machines at our cafe I noticed that the standard size tamper that I had was a fraction looser so jumped at the chance to try a Greg Pullman. The service was personal and quick using the easy web ordering system and follow up email contact. Even when we discovered that there was a slight size difference in the three group machine baskets Greg was able to fine tune the engineering to achieve a snug fit. The tamper is slightly lighter than a full stainless so the True Tamp rings on the base were invaluable when checking for even tamping.
I really enjoy the feel of the beautifully turned Red Gum handle. What a great Australian product with world wide appeal.
Overall Score: 10/10- Joseph Chiha - NSW - Deluxe tamper for Gaggia Classic
- Just wanted to compliment Greg on a wonderful professional business he operates. From the time he received my coffee basket, to the time the gorgeous jarrah deluxe tamper arrived at my door was a mere 5 days! It is a wonderful piece of equipment and I am very satisified....my wife adores it also!
Overall Score: 10/10
see tamper
see tamper
see tamperOverall Score: 9.5/10
Now for the tamper...
Perfect snug fit, I recommend you send your basket in, might as well have it right the first time. I previously used the plastic tamper that came with Silvia, not very good and is the wrong size tsk tsk. With the Pullman tamper, I'm pulling better shots each time with much more crema. In fact the tamper is so effective that I had to grind a bit coarser to get the flow right.
My only niggle is with the Checkerboard handle. I imagine it's not as durable as the other handles, mine has a little dent in it already, maybe a little warning similar to the Huon handle would be beneficial to future purchasers. Has no effect on the coffee but is no longer perfect like when I received it :-(
P.V. - Sorry you've had a problem there. The checkerboard handle should actually be as hard as any other handle (apart from the softer Huon Pine as you mentioned). The woods used are Australian Oak and Jarrah, both of which are hardwoods as as hard as the other handles available. This of course doesn't exempt them from any damage, but it would be unusual for them to get dented unless they received a blow from a sharp object, such as being dropped onto the corner of a bench. - Greg
Is it worth it for the price? I'd definitely say so considering a standard SS tamper will set you back about $50 already and it won't be custom made to fit your basket like the Pullman tamper.Overall Score: 9.5/10
We are over the moon with the tamper for our Rancilio machine. The one currently on order is for my father inlaw (coffee perfectionist), he cant't keep his hands off ours when he visits. He has been using a tamper that is too small for the basket on the Brasillia machine, so we are confident the new tamper will assist him in making even better coffee!
Regards,
Marnie & David Rowe
P.S Would give the rating 11 out of 10 if we could.
Overall Score: 10/10
Overall Score: 10/10
So thank you Greg, I'm proud to own such a beautifully crafted, hand made barista tool. It fits the baskets on my machine perfectly and feels natural in my hand. My wife has also mentioned several times that you were very easy to do business with. My next task is to convince my boss that it would be a good idea to have one of your tampers at work.
Overall Score: 10/10
Overall Score: 10/10
Overall Score: 10/10
Overall Score: 10/10
I would refer anyone who is into home espresso to buy a Pullman coffee tamper!!!
Mark.
Overall Score: 9.5/10
Overall Score: 8.5/10
I knew the cheap plastic Silvia tamper wasn't doing me any favours, but I didn't realise just how badly it was affecting the result. The rings around the outside of the Pullman tamper made it easy to correct the slight angle I was tamping at, too. Definitely worth the investment!
Overall Score: 10/10
Hing.
Overall Score: 10/10
Everyone I spoke to in the know steered me towards the Pullman Tamper to complement the Elektra Microcasa and Mini Mazzer grinder that now have pride of place in our kitchen. I do the coffee and the bride does the cooking in our abode now affectionately referred to "Club Ed Caffe' and Cucina, Manning Point". Anyone in doubt with their whereabouts now can view, but not touch, the Pullman Tamper that proves it.
What a beautiful accessory to a beuatiful set up we now have.
Overall Score: 10/10
Aesthetics Superb, Engineering and Timber Most Impressive For Me The Best I Have seen and have seen Plenty of designs on the Net. When pushed down in an empty Rancilio Basket it finally touches Sides at bottom. Perfect.
Maybe it was new-itis but taste was richer and fuller on Shot Pulled today......VERY VERY Impressed Worth every cent.
Thank You Greg Oh Yes The Service Was Superb. P.S. My Wife went WOW. So there.
Overall Score: 10/10
But most importantly: it works! Greg's tamps have a nice, heavy and solid feel, but are not overwhelmingly heavy. I sent my double basket down to Greg, so the tamp is a perfect fit. There is almost no coffee left sticking to the walls of my basket, which means there is no need for tapping the side of the portafilter. I'm still getting used to using a tamp that fits, but the first thing I've noticed is that it is speeding up my preparation time.
Greg's service was great - 10/10! He kept in touch regularly and got the job done quickly. Sending my basket to Greg had me worried at first - that it might get damaged in the post, but Greg gave good advice on how to post it, and he emailed when it arrived, to reassure me that it arrived safely, in one piece. He also emailed us when he had finished the job and when he was sending it to us. If only more businesses operated like that!
Overall, I am extremely happy with Greg's service, and even happier with the product! Thanks Greg!
Overall Score: 10/10
The tamper is a piece of craftsmanship. And it is very functional. Thank you for a fine product.
Martin.
Overall Score: 10/10
One word of criticism would be the engraving of www.coffeetamper.com.au on the handle. In my opinion it would be nicer to have something like the pullman tamper engraved on it rathar than a web address but that is only my opinion. Also it is not 100% straight along the handle. Having said that, it barely detracts from the beauty of the tamper and i'm realy just being picky :) As for functionality... so far I have only used the plastic tamper that came with the machine and ofcourse it beats it hands down. It fit perfectly and tamps just like in the pictures of 'the perfect tamp' that I see on websites.
Thanks for those thoughts. I'll see whether some generally preferred alternative text could be chosen rather than the website URL.
Update: 1/2006 - the website URL has now been scrapped in favour of a logo.
All in all, I feel very comfortable that the money was very well spent. I was looking for a good tamper in shops and although I found ones that match the price, none came even close with beauty and functionality (they don't have the same perfect fit and weight). Its a great product.
Overall Score: 9.5/10
I will add that it wasn't clear to me that the handle would be engraved with the name of your website. There's a lot of information on the products page and it's easy to miss. I think it could be stated on the order form that if one chooses not to have any custom engraving, the website will be engraved on the handle by default.
I would also like to say that I really think one ought to have the option of not having the website engraved on the handle, to be honest I may have had second thoughts if I had realised it was not an option. It detracts from the simplicity of the design and makes the tamper look like a promotional tool.
Thanks for those comments, and sorry this wasn't clear from the outset.
Update: 1/2006 - the website URL has now been scrapped in favour of a logo.
A few unengraved handles are normally kept for custom engraving and these may be made available if absolutely no engraving is wanted. However whether this can happen in every case will depend on whether I have it available, and if I do, how many are available and when the next batch of handles are due to arrive. All these factors make it difficult to put a definitive statement anywhere on the webiste; however I have now mentioned on the Engraving page that the possibility is there, and provided a contact facility which will hopefully address this. - Greg
Everything else was great, though, the whole buying experience, and the quality of the tamper, so thank you.Overall Score: 9/10
I have been using the tamper for a number of days now and it is working very well. My coffees are now much easier to make and taste consistently better. The quality of the tamper is very high; It's a weighty and solid piece of metal that just feels like it's made well.
Overall Score: 10/10
But the next day I emailed Greg with the tale of woe, and asked what a new handle and/or tamper would cost. To my delight and utter surprise he offered a replacement handle (the stainless steel base had resisted the dog tooth marks) free of charge, and would make one as soon as the holidays were over. True to his word, a new handle arrived in three weeks, and I had to persuade him to accept just the cost of the postage as an expression of my gratitude. The tamper has been in almost daily use ever since and continues to be a beautiful and highly functional part of my coffee equipment.
I can't speak highly enough of the quality of the service and the product.
Overall Score: 10/10
Overall Score: 10/10
I couldn't want a more perfect tamper!! It's a great fit, a great look, and the quality of the coffee has improved remarkably. It makes a huge different to the consistency of the shots. I would definately recommend this to my friends, and coffee lovers.
Overall Score: 10/10
The service was personal and helpful, and the construction an delivery very speedy (which is especially impressive due to the arrival of baby!). I'm recommending these things as gifts for my mates!
Overall Score: 10/10