Advanced Technique
Puck Prep Prioritization
Master RDT, WDT, and puck prep. Grinder-type-specific guidance on what matters most.
Master RDT, WDT, and puck prep. Grinder-type-specific guidance on what matters most.
Puck prep techniques (RDT, WDT, distribution) aim to improve extraction consistency. However, not all techniques matter equally for all grinders. Some grinders produce consistent grinds naturally; others need heavy intervention.
This guide shows which techniques matter most for your specific grinder type. Learn more about systematic dialing in protocols.
✓ Key Techniques:
Find your grinder type and see which techniques matter most.
Examples: Mazzer, Eureka, Ceado
Priority 1 (Critical): WDT
Large flats produce clumpy grinds. WDT breaks up clumps and ensures even distribution. This is the most important technique.
Priority 2 (Important): RDT
Reduces static which causes clumping. Apply before grinding. Helps WDT work better.
Priority 3 (Helpful): Distribution Tool
Levels grounds before tamping. Improves consistency but less critical than WDT.
Priority 4 (Nice to Have): Leveling
Ensures even tamp. Helpful but less impactful than WDT.
Recommended Workflow:
RDT → Grind → WDT → Distribution Tool → Tamp → Lever
Examples: Niche Zero, Baratza Sette, Fellow Ode
Priority 1 (Important): RDT
Conicals produce less clumping naturally. RDT reduces static and improves consistency. Most important technique.
Priority 2 (Helpful): WDT
Less critical than for flats, but still helpful. Use light touch—conicals don't clump as much.
Priority 3 (Optional): Distribution Tool
Nice to have but not essential. Conicals distribute reasonably well naturally.
Priority 4 (Optional): Leveling
Helpful for consistency but less critical than with flats.
Recommended Workflow:
RDT → Grind → Light WDT (optional) → Tamp → Lever
Examples: Lagom P64, Fellow Ode, Wilfa Uniform
Priority 1 (Minimal): Consistent Tamping
Unimodals produce very consistent grinds. Focus on consistent tamping rather than complex puck prep.
Priority 2 (Optional): RDT
Minimal static issues. RDT is optional. Use only if you notice static clumping.
Priority 3 (Not Needed): WDT
Unimodals don't clump. WDT is unnecessary and may disrupt consistent grind.
Priority 4 (Not Needed): Distribution Tool
Grind is already well-distributed. Not necessary.
Recommended Workflow:
Grind → Tamp Consistently → Lever
That's it. Simplicity is the advantage of unimodal grinders.
Examples: Eureka Mignon, Baratza Sette, Rancilio Rocky
Priority 1 (Important): Consistent Dose
Espresso grinders are designed for consistency. Focus on consistent dosing and tamping.
Priority 2 (Helpful): RDT
Reduces static. Helpful but not critical for espresso-specific grinders.
Priority 3 (Optional): WDT
Use if you notice clumping. Otherwise optional.
Priority 4 (Helpful): Distribution Tool
Improves consistency. Recommended for espresso.
Recommended Workflow:
Grind → Distribution Tool → Tamp Consistently → Lever
What: Add 2-3 drops of water to beans before grinding.
Why: Water reduces static electricity, which causes clumping.
How: Sprinkle drops on beans, wait 10 seconds, grind.
Best For: Large flat burrs, espresso-specific grinders.
Skip If: Unimodal grinders (minimal static).
What: Use a thin needle or WDT tool to break up clumps in the puck.
Why: Breaks up clumps and ensures even water distribution.
How: Insert needle into puck 5-10 times, gently stirring. Don't compress.
Best For: Large flat burrs (critical), conical burrs (helpful).
Skip If: Unimodal grinders (no clumping).
What: Mechanical tools that level and distribute grounds evenly.
Why: Ensures even tamp and water flow.
Examples: Espresso Distribution Tools, Levelers, Stockfleth Move.
Best For: Espresso-specific grinders, large flats.
Skip If: Unimodal grinders (already well-distributed).
What: Applying consistent pressure and angle when tamping.
Why: Uneven tamp causes channeling and inconsistent extraction.
How: Use consistent pressure (30 lbs), keep portafilter level, tamp straight down.
Best For: All grinder types. This is universal.
Priority: Always high. Master this first.
Not all techniques matter equally. Focus on what matters most for your grinder type.
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