Normcore V4 Tamper Review

Discover our test of the Normcore V4 tamper: a precision tool for coffee tamping, combining comfort, consistency and design to improve your espresso extractions.

When it comes to extracting an espresso coffee, a barista’s expertise takes on its full meaning, and it is universally recognized that a quality tamper is an essential element. Beyond the simple action of pressing, modern tampers, such as the Normcore V4, are specifically designed to maintain a constant pressing force with each use.

Design of the Normcore V4 tamper

Normcore tampers are available in several formats, ranging from 45.5 mm to 58.5 mm. They are therefore compatible with all standards, except for the famous 57 mm from Lelit. The tampers are also available in white or black, with a stainless steel or titanium base, and a flat or rippled surface. Suffice to say that the possibilities are numerous!

Each kit provides three springs, which develop a force of 15 lb (6.8 kg), 25 lb (11.3 kg) and 30 lb (13.6 kg). The Normcore is delivered with the 25 lb spring installed.

I find that the design is successful. It is made entirely of metal and the black color I chose goes well with my equipment, especially my Fellow Stagg EKG kettle.

The grip of the Normcore V4 tamper is quite pleasant. Its handle fits the barista’s hand well. However, unlike the MHW 3Bomber, the Normcore V4 does not have a rim on which the fingers can rest.

The Normcore is equipped with a guide that rests on the filter rim. This allows the user to tamp straight, an essential aspect to ensure even water flow through the coffee puck.

The kit includes a cap that prevents the tamper base from coming into contact with the countertop when you set it down.

How consistent is the spring force of the Normcore V4 tamper?

I have found no defects regarding the consistency of this tamper. It applies the stated force with each use. However, I don’t use the 15 lb (6.8 kg) spring because I find that my coffee pucks are not sufficiently tamped. On the other hand, I have used the 25 lb (11.3 kg) and 30 lb (13.6 kg) springs extensively.

What about coffee retention?

I noticed a slight coffee retention between the guide and the tamper base. All tampers equipped with a guide commonly experience this situation. Although the retention is minimal and does not contaminate the coffee, it is recommended to clean this part from time to time to prevent any buildup of residue.

Normcore V4 vs MHW 3Bomber

As you may have read in this article, I also have the MHW 3Bomber calibrated tamper. Having used both products for several months, I have enough perspective to compare them.

On some aspects, I prefer the Normcore V4. I prefer the 58.5 mm diameter (rather than the 58.35 mm of the MHW 3Bomber). Additionally, I have a preference for flat tamper bases, as I find that grooved bases don’t add anything in terms of aromas. Moreover, the grooves can cause coffee retention between the ridges.

However, on other aspects, I prefer the MHW 3Bomber. I like its dynamometric feature with the audible click, which is pleasant to hear. Additionally, I appreciate the grip thanks to the ridge on the handle, where I can rest my fingers for better stability.

Both products are of very good quality, but the choice will depend on the trade-offs.

Conclusion

For several years, Normcore has been producing quality accessories for the coffee world. The V4 version of the tamper is a success in my eyes. Indeed, it offers the ability to choose the pressing force by replacing the springs, the grip is excellent, and the product has a nice design.

However, it is unfortunate that the tamper is not strictly speaking dynamometric, as the “click” is pleasant to hear when pressing.

My rating: ★★★★★