A Deep Dive into Saint Anthony Industries' Espresso Accessories

The three brothers behind Saint Anthony Industries are coffee veterans. Meaning, they’re more than aware of the current swing in trends. Thus, they offer both a New Levy Precision Tamping Tool and a BT Wedge Distribution Tool. Both come in a wide variety of American hardwoods, and used together create deliciously consistent shots — think of them as brothers in your coffee setup.

It’s no secret espresso preparation has been leaning towards levelers and distribution tools recently. For example, Marc from our video team has long been a fan of the Asso Jack Leveler. We’ve moved beyond the “30 pounds” rule when it comes to tamping in favor of products with less room for error. With something like the Jack Leveler, you can adjust the depth to ensure consistent tamps without injuring yourself in the process. 

Because of this recent development and interest surge, many companies have been realizing barista tools that move beyond the traditional tamp. Our most recent acquisition, though, comes from brother-owned company, Saint Anthony Industries. Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, SAI offers handcrafted espresso brewing tools that are inspired by the American West. 

The BT Wedge Distribution Tool in 58.3mm uses a wedge design that allows you to evenly distribute espresso grounds without prematurely compressing them, so your machine’s pressure can still take full effect. The BT Wedge from Saint Anthony Industries has a .3mm thicker diameter than typically seen on 58mm distribution tools so the device won’t wobble around in the portafilter basket. You can also adjust the depth of your distribution tool between .2in and .5in for precise leveling before giving the device a spin!

After using the distribution tool, you’ll want to go in with the New Levy Precision Tamping Tool 58.3mm. Much like the BT Wedge, adjust the tool’s depth between .2in and .5in, pick your desired weight, and let the tool take control as you spin. Each product is handmade in the Saint Anthony workshop, combining precision machined stainless steel with hardwood.

If you’re asking “Why would someone adjust their tool’s depth?” The answer is pretty simple. Depending on what basket you’re using you’re going to want to adjust your BT Wedge and Tamping Tool to get the best results. Here at Whole Latte Love, we offer a variety of custom baskets — like the IMS, BIT, or Baristapro lines. Depending on which you’re using, your espresso grounds can be lower or higher depending on how narrow the width is. By adjusting between .2in and .5in, you ensure the tamp and distribution tools reach their full potential.

As for actually adjusting your depth, Saint Anthony Industries just made that a lot easier with their Bachman Accu Drive system. Typically, customers will have to add on the engraved measurements for an additional cost. However, our New Levy and BT Wedge come with the system pre-installed. With the Bachman Accu Drive system, you can set your tools’ depth according to the etched numbers, making it easier to return to with each extraction. Ultimately improving the quality and consistency of your espresso service.

To use the Bachman Accu Drive system on each tool, follow these steps:

1. Determine your dose (weight) first — either 16g, 18g, etc — so you can adjust the tamping depth accordingly. 
2. Grasp and unscrew the handle on top while holding the center spacer.
3. Zero out the tool by holding the middle and loosen the top. Then screw the base of the tool into the unit until you can't move it any more.
4. From there, turn the tool to whatever number you choose. Each full cycle counts up. So to get to 12, do one full cycle through 10 and then stop at two. 
5. To secure the size, tighten the top!

The New Levy Precision Tamping Tool and BT Wedge Distribution Tool come in Matte Stainless, Walnut, Maple, Teflon Black, Teflon Blue, and Teflon Silver. Each American hardwood comes with its own varied tone and is coated in industrial Teflon, making the New Levy tamper durable and fashionable. 

With so many wood variants, these tools can fit right into your dream espresso brewing setup right at home! Use our 3D customizer to pick between various panel colorways for ECM and Rocket prosumer machines. You can also pick different wood grains for knobs — for instance, the ECM Classika offers Quilted Sapele, Tiger Maple, Walnut, Wenge, and Zebra Wood grains. Now, you can mix and match with Saint Anthony Industries’ premium tamping and distribution accessories, as well as our existing line of wood accessories.

Beyond the BT Wedge Distribution Tool and New Levy Precision Tamping Tool, we are also now carrying various brewing tools from Saint Anthony Industries. Overall, we are so thrilled with these products and are excited to see people get their hands on them! If you do, and feel like showing off, make sure to take our socials so we can share your setups along. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay up to date with Whole Latte Love!