Unlike most reviewers of Turkish mills, I use mine every day for 2 double shots. I like manual grinders because they're quiet. I have a Zassenhaus knee mill which I use for coarser grinds, but it didn't sound happy on the espresso grinds (and honestly I got tired of adjusting it back and forth depending on what I was brewing).
The Zassenhaus Turkish grinder is a good match for my Saeco Classico. I fill the grinder full of beans and it's the right amount for 2 double shots. Grinding does take some human energy but you don't have to be terribly awake. After grinding, I tap the outside a few times to get the loose grinds to drop from the burrs and then open it up. The bottom of the Turkish mill matches the size of my portafilter so well that it's easy to pour half the grounds directly into the portafilter. I rarely spill any, but I pour over the sink just in case.
Obviously the beans don't overheat in a manual mill so that's not an issue. The courseness is adjustable but the Turkish mill, as opposed to the box mills, is really designed for fine grinds.
I'd definitely recommend this for anyone who dislikes the noise of electric grinders. I wouldn't recommend this for more than 8 shots a day, it would just get too tedious. I keep a can of Illy preground around for when I have a house full of friends.
Buying Experience
Buying from Sweet Maria's was great. Everything arrived on time and in great shape.
Three Month Followup
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One Year Followup
I'm still loving the Zassenhaus Turkish mill. I find I avoid using my Zassenhaus knee mill for grinding for my french press, because the turkish mill is easier and faster.
