Tamping is the final step in your espresso puck prep, and while it isn’t necessarily the most essential part of that process, it can make or break your shot if done incorrectly. If you don’t apply consistent force straight down, you can end up with a skew puck, which can cause all sorts of extraction issues when it comes time to pull your shot. 

Consistent tamping isn’t a particularly difficult skill to acquire, but with something like Presso’s self-levelling tamper you don’t necessarily have to bother perfecting it. Thanks to just a bit of crafty engineering and some springs, this tamper is calibrated to apply 14kgs of pressure straight down every time it’s used, no matter the user’s exact input, ensuring a level puck and thereby guaranteeing unimpeded extraction and tasty coffee — providing that the rest of your puck prep is in-line too. The tamper itself features a quality, weighty build, with an ergonomic handle and a sturdy stainless steel base, making it pleasant to hold and plenty durable for daily use and abuse.

Presso Self-Levelling Tamper features & specifications

• Spring-loaded base applies 14kg of force straight down when pressed – guarantees an even bed of coffee every time
• High-quality build that is pleasant to hold and easy to clean
• Compatible with 58mm portafilters
• Materials: stainless steel (base), aluminium alloy (handle)
• Dimensions (H x D): 80 x 58mm
• Weight: 338g