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Second hand Iberital Challenge grinder: to buy, or not to buy?

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  • Second hand Iberital Challenge grinder: to buy, or not to buy?


    A mate has an unwanted Iberital Challenge grinder that is less than 4 years old.

    He’s very careful (read anal!) about care, cleaning and upkeep.

    He says it has done a single cup of coffee each day (and two on weekends).

    He is wanting around $100 for it.

    My question: how strong and long-lasting are the burrs on these machines? At the 4 year mark, are they likely to need replacing soon?

    My only minor issue is that if the burrs only last a bit longer the replacement cost is every bit of $100.

    Thank you in advance.


  • #2
    Re: Second hand Iberital Challenge grinder: to buy, or not to buy?

    There may be plenty of life in the old girl yet. According to the figures your friend provided the grinder has probably done less than 35kg (this is assuming all his drinks are doubles).

    Easiest way is just to check them. See this link for tips
    http://www.home-barista.com/grinders/burr-wear-indication-t12113.html

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    • #3
      Re: Second hand Iberital Challenge grinder: to buy, or not to buy?

      I used to own one of them and now have an Ascaso (current use is Syphon or Plunger at work about 500g/week) that runs a nearly identical burr set and carrier. You should get 100kg+ from a set of burrs with not to many problems so actual age is not normally a factor.

      As to the grinder itself consider them to be tough and rugged and a reasonable step up from the 450/480 Sunbeam or Breville types, more toward the Rocky end of things.

      $100 is cheap so no problems there either, I sold my old one for $180 here I think.

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      • #4
        Re: Second hand Iberital Challenge grinder: to buy, or not to buy?

        Just a postscript to this story.  I purchased the Ibertital as mentioned.

        Compared to the sumbean em4050, I cant begin to describe the difference...Im actually shocked. I thought grinders were kinda, well, grinders.

        The coffee is not clumping, for a start.

        Now, I dont know the science but my coffee tastes better and Im getting a much richer colour.

        Took about 6 shots to get the right grind (man, you have to turn the knob forever to get much change in the grind!).

        So to all the beginners, and newbies out there, I warmly suggest you keep an eye on the sharp offers of sponsors and the second hand posts and jump a few levels on your grinder.  

        Dont start at the bottom...its just not worth it - for the sake of $100.

        I SERIOUSLY wasnt expecting such a step change in coffee quality...anyone got a second hand mazzer by any chance? ;D

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