I'm trying to see if I can improve my pour and I think I'm getting some channelling around the edges - getting a naked PF to help see things better, plus to have the ability to use deeper baskets etc.
Pours start out nice and slow but always seems to run faster sooner than I would like and I think blondes too early. Grinding finer just results in choking the machine, so I think the issue isn't grind size, but more to do with distribution or tamping.
Around the edges always seems to be some pin-holes and/or large divets.
I'm using a Jetblack PreciseFit Tamper which fits relatively well, but there is still some play - going to measure with calipers once I get some batteries. Basket is a La Marzocco I believe, but there are no markings to confirm (machine bought second hand). Definitely not the standard Rancilio basket though.
Currently I'm tapping the side of the portafilter with my palm to distribute and then tapping down on the bench twice to settle before tamping. I'm going to try dosing into a small cup first to try and break up clumps before tipping into the PF.
Any tips/suggestions will be appreciated!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/lj2w2k9e3BRNpoZo2
Pours start out nice and slow but always seems to run faster sooner than I would like and I think blondes too early. Grinding finer just results in choking the machine, so I think the issue isn't grind size, but more to do with distribution or tamping.
Around the edges always seems to be some pin-holes and/or large divets.
I'm using a Jetblack PreciseFit Tamper which fits relatively well, but there is still some play - going to measure with calipers once I get some batteries. Basket is a La Marzocco I believe, but there are no markings to confirm (machine bought second hand). Definitely not the standard Rancilio basket though.
Currently I'm tapping the side of the portafilter with my palm to distribute and then tapping down on the bench twice to settle before tamping. I'm going to try dosing into a small cup first to try and break up clumps before tipping into the PF.
Any tips/suggestions will be appreciated!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/lj2w2k9e3BRNpoZo2


, but I've seen some nice pours online!
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