Pollen press M: the middle size in the stainless steel range
The press is a straight stainless steel tube with a knurled screw ring at the top carrying a threaded rod and T-handle, and a second ring at the bottom that unscrews just as easily. Turn the handle down and the rod travels into the tube, squeezing whatever sits below it into a firm disc. Internally the M measures 25 mm across by 72 mm long, which is roomier than the S at 20 by 51 mm and smaller than the L at 30 by 93 mm. For a lot of people that makes this the size they settle on: more than one grinder harvest fits in a single pressing, yet it still disappears into a drawer or a side pocket.
Pollen is the usual filling, meaning the fine powder that gathers in the bottom chamber of a grinder or in a sieve box. Loose, it drifts away and clings to your fingers; pressed into a disc you can weigh it, store it and carry it without losing any. Other dry, finely sifted plant material compacts in the same way. No springs, magnets or electronics are involved, the thread supplies all the force, and that is also the part worth treating gently.
Working with the M
- Unscrew the top ring with the T-handle and lift it clear of the tube.
- Add your material, stopping a few millimetres below the rim so the rod still has travel.
- Refit the handle and turn it down by hand until you meet clear resistance, then stop.
- Leave it standing for a while, back the handle off, unscrew the bottom ring and push the disc out.
Cleaning and storage
Never force the handle on once it stops giving, since the thread is the most fragile part of the press. Take it apart after use, wash the pieces in warm water with a little washing up liquid and dry them properly before putting everything back together. If the material clings to the rod, lay a small round of baking parchment above and below the filling and the disc will release straight away.
The rest of the range
Avalon Magic Plants stocks this press in sizes S and L as well, next to the 110 mm herb press with the same style of T-handle, the Hash Maker Pollinator and Buddy's folding trim scissors. Your order leaves in discreet packaging.
