I got the Blichmann about two years ago, and here are my comments about some of your observations. Pricing: As a home brewer, it was more than I wanted to spend, but at the time there was really only the Blichmann and the SS. I didn't want the SS (based on some of the same things and more that you addressed). Drive: I can't comment on the drive system/steel shavings, because I haven't taken the mill apart and have no intention of doing so. Thoughput: I did a test a while back of the throughput (and video'd it) and for me it was about 16 pounds in 1:20, which is roughly on par with your pro system. I will post that to my RU-vid channel shortly. Weight: The Blichmann is a monster, and I think the motor + mill comes in over 50 pounds. (With the stand, it shipped at about 78 or so pounds), so I think you under-reported that. The thing is tho, with the casters it moves around quite easily, so the weight was not an issue after assembly, and because I can move the mill, it does store in an out of the way spot as well. Its footprint is 24" X 24" (X 38" tall) which was not a problem for me. Gap setting adjustment: When I got mine, it came with a stainless steel plate, and I did not find it difficult or confusing to set up and adjust. Altho I primarily use it on one setting, it is simple to change when I need to. The Spike appears to be a little easier to adjust, but it is not significant. Dust: You are spot on with your comments there. After each milling I actually use my leaf blower to get all the dust off of it, and out of the garage. Looks: Definitely an industrial look, but that doesn't bother me. Some other things you didn't comment on that you should have: Assembly: On my Blichmann, it was very difficult, especially setting up the stand and mounting the mill and hopper to it and getting everything to fit properly. Just a one time deal, but a total PITA, especially compared to what it looks like is an easy assembly on the Spike mill. Noise: I wish you addressed this. I have heard that the SS is VERY loud with a high pitch (and seen videos of it on RU-vid) and I think it would be nice to know how loud yours is. My Blichmann is very quiet. Gap between rollers different from front to back: There were a couple videos on YT about the gap being different in the rollers on the SS, and I did see one as well about a minor difference on the Blichmann. Mine does not have that issue, but can you comment on that? End game is I love my Blichmann mill, (and am obviously going to keep it) but if the Spike was available when I purchased mine, I would have seriously considered it based on the overall cost for a homebrewing operation.
Two things I really like about this mill that weren’t mentioned. One, and it’s a small thing, but the hopper bolts on with 4 hex machine screws that screw in from the inside of the hopper to the mill. This means there is the potential for those screws to end up in the rollers, probably tearing them up in the process. (These bolts took me a good 30 minutes to install with the included hex wrench.) However, this is a good thing. They are tight, and even with the vibrations a standard mill goes through, I don’t see them working loose, ever. If they do though, the designer was thoughtful enough to include a metal screen just below them, and the bolt heads are too large to allow them through the channels. That’s thoughtful engineering. Second thing I like is the noise level. My old drill-driven Schmidling sounds like a Cessna taking off. This Spike Home purrs like a kitten. Nice job, guys.
You guys are becoming the Apple of brewing. Love all of your stuff, especially these deep dives, which set you apart and is akin to KegLand. Keep it up!
