The Made by Knock Aergrind manual coffee grinder, particularly its 2022 iteration, represents a sophisticated fusion of thoughtful engineering, robust materials, and impressive functionality. Designed primarily with portability in mind, especially for users of the AeroPress, this device sets itself apart with its compact form factor, premium build, and the capability to produce consistent grinds across an expansive spectrum of brewing techniques, from fine espresso to coarse French press.
Its development signifies a notable advancement in the manual grinder sector, driven by an increasing demand for portable brewing solutions. The Aergrind's commitment to quality is evident from its eco-conscious packaging to its precision-machined components. While it carries a boutique price tag, its durability, adaptable grinding range, and seamless integration with the AeroPress system underscore its value proposition for dedicated coffee aficionados.
The manual coffee grinder landscape has undergone a significant transformation over the last decade and a half, largely propelled by the emergence of travel-friendly brewing methods such as the AeroPress. Before manufacturers like Made by Knock gained prominence in the specialized coffee community, the Porlex Mini carved out a new niche, notably for its design that allowed it to fit within the AeroPress plunger tube. This innovation dramatically enhanced the convenience of on-the-go coffee preparation, combining grinding and brewing into a singular, compact travel solution.
Presently, the market boasts numerous high-end manual grinders catering to a wide array of preferences, from ultra-fine Turkish grinds to various pour-over and espresso consistencies. Among these, Made by Knock distinguishes itself through its meticulous Scottish craftsmanship and strategic product evolution. Established in 2010, the company initially focused on wood-based accessories before introducing its inaugural grinder, the Hausgrind, in 2014. This product, featuring hardened steel burrs encased in a beautifully crafted wooden body, marked a new direction for the industry.
Subsequently, the Feldgrind transitioned to an almost entirely metal construction and innovated with a top-mounted grind adjustment mechanism, offering a practical and elegant solution to a common user challenge. However, it was the Aergrind, launched through Kickstarter in 2017, that solidified Made by Knock's reputation. This model combined a sleek, tube-like design, specifically engineered to nest within the AeroPress, with a robust 38mm conical burr set from Italmill and a stepless grind adjustment. The Aergrind achieved an optimal balance of portability, resilience, and grinding efficiency that few competitors could rival.
Nevertheless, no product is without its potential for enhancement. Earlier Aergrind models experienced issues such as the friction-fit grounds catch bin occasionally detaching and the grind setting slipping under intense grinding pressure. In response, the 2022 Aergrind revision incorporated strengthened components, improved burrs with a significantly extended lifespan, and refined ergonomics. These upgrades further elevated an already commendable grinder, positioning it as a top-tier choice for portable coffee preparation.
Unpacking the Made by Knock Aergrind immediately conveys a sense of premium quality and a commitment to environmental responsibility. The absence of plastic or polystyrene, replaced by a sturdy cardboard tube cushioned with recycled paper, signals a thoughtful, eco-conscious design philosophy. The main body arrives with its signature black silicone grip pre-fitted, seamlessly integrated into the anodized aluminum frame, showcasing a precise and well-engineered fit.
Additional accessories include a larger silicone ring, ingeniously designed to hold the crank arm and stretch to fit the outer tube of an AeroPress, providing practical storage for travel. Our test units also came with extra silicone sleeves in vibrant orange and pink, offering customization options or replacements. The crank arm, crafted from anodized aluminum with a walnut handle, attaches magnetically and features a subtle bottle opener function, adding a touch of versatility. While initial assembly of the crank arm requires a moment of attention due to its D-shaped spindle shaft and alignment dimple, it quickly becomes an intuitive process.
The grind catch bin, constructed from the same anodized aluminum, boasts a threaded design that secures firmly, a significant improvement over earlier models' friction-fit issues. The inclusion of spare O-rings in a small envelope further emphasizes the manufacturer's dedication to product longevity. A QR code on a compact postcard replaces traditional printed manuals, reinforcing the brand's eco-friendly approach. The overall unboxing experience is characterized by a feeling of robust and refined craftsmanship.
The Made by Knock Aergrind is a testament to intelligent design meeting daily practicality. Its stepless grind adjustment system, conveniently located at the top, eliminates the need to remove the grounds bin for adjustments. The laser-etched numbers on the grind dial are highly visible, and the mechanism allows for approximately four full rotations, covering a broad spectrum from extremely fine Turkish coffee to coarse French press. Espresso settings typically fall within one rotation, and pour-over settings around two. However, it's worth noting that the grind dial on our test units occasionally slipped coarser at very fine espresso settings, a minor inconvenience that requires occasional readjustment.
Loading beans into the narrow 47mm hopper can be tricky due to internal metal struts, but this is effectively mitigated by using the grounds bin as a precise dosing cup, ensuring a mess-free experience. The grinder has a capacity of about 25g, which is ideal for single servings but might be insufficient for larger batches. The magnetic top cap ensures a secure fit, eliminating any concerns about loosening over time.
The 38mm titanium-nitrided conical burrs, sourced from Italmill, are a standout feature. Their aggressive tooth pattern efficiently captures and grinds beans, producing remarkably uniform results for a compact grinder. In sifter tests, the Aergrind performed comparably to electric grinders like the Baratza Encore ESP Pro and manual grinders such as the Timemore Chestnut C3 ESP Pro, yielding clean and balanced extractions for both espresso and pour-over. While French press brews exhibited a few extra fines, this is common for conical burrs and did not detract significantly from the overall quality.
The grinder's compact and well-balanced design offers a comfortable and precise grinding experience. The smooth anodized aluminum body, complemented by the grippy silicone sleeves, ensures a secure hold. The crank action is fluid, with minimal axial play, and the handle's length provides ample leverage for various grind settings. The magnetic attachment of the walnut handle adds a satisfying tactile element to the user experience. Switching between brewing methods is effortless, taking mere seconds, and the grinder's ability to fit directly into the AeroPress plunger tube makes it an ideal, self-contained travel companion. While some users opt to grind directly into the AeroPress, this can lead to static issues and awkward handling, making the catch cup a preferred option.
The Made by Knock Aergrind is a well-designed travel grinder that effectively balances portability with strong performance, making it an excellent choice for those who value both convenience and grind quality. Its robust all-metal construction and high-quality titanium-nitrided burrs ensure durability and consistent results across various brew methods, from fine espresso to coarse French press. The unique stepless adjustment system and AeroPress-compatible design further enhance its appeal for mobile coffee enthusiasts.
However, potential users should be aware of its limitations, such as the moderate capacity (25g), which may not suit those needing to prepare larger batches. Although the grind adjustment dial can occasionally slip at finer settings, and the internal burr adjustment requires tools for full disassembly, these minor drawbacks are generally outweighed by the grinder's overall advantages. The Aergrind occupies a distinctive position in the market, offering premium features and craftsmanship at a more accessible price point than many of its high-end competitors. For individuals prioritizing a compact, reliable, and well-built manual grinder for single servings or travel, particularly AeroPress users, the Aergrind stands out as a highly recommended investment.