Any input on stuffers???

[mountain-worm]

I was looking at the Vivo 3L stuffer, but then I seen that I can get the 5L for a few dollars more. Would I be better off with the larger stuffer? Also, I have seen a few of those 2 speed stuffers, has anyone used one? Just looking for some input as I have never used a stuffer before, I have always just stuffed right out of my grinder. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[chef jimmyj]

Kind of depends on what kind of sausage you will make most and how much. If thin Snack Sticks are your thing, go with the smaller stuffer as the large ones can't handle the pressure of stuffing and often fail. If regular size 32-38mm Hog Casing size sausage will be made, the small unit is fine up to 20 lbs or so. Larger batches will be go faster with the larger stuffer. I have not used a dual gear unit so I leave that to someone else...JJ

 

[DanMcG]

On a two speed the high gear is used to pull the plunger out faster, thats why you find them on the larger, taller units. you'll still stuff with the low gear.
Like Jimmy said, it all depends on what you make and how much. I usually make 2 kg (4.4 lbs) batches, so for me a 5 pounder is perfect. If you do a lot of summer sausage or large caliber lunch meats that hold a few pounds per casing then get the larger one.

 

[mowin]

That Vivo 5lb'er is a great stuffer. We've put 100's# through one. Zero issues.

 

[jeffinn]

Yes, the Vivo is a great stuffer. Like the poster above I've put a few hundred pounds through mine without any problems.

 

[mountain-worm]

Thanks for the input. I ended up going with the Vivo 5L,11lb stuffer. It's the same diameter or width as the 3L,5lb stuffer only it's taller. Seems like the best of both worlds.

 

[gary s]

I have a Kitchener 5# with plastic gears. So far no problems. I keep everything lubricated and when I get to the bottom (When I am Stuffing) I ease up and don't crank down hard. They do not recommend going any smaller on the stuffing tubes that come with it. I bought a smaller tube to make snack sticks and had no problems. The 5 # is just right for me with what I make. So like Chef said you have to decide how much and how often you will use it.

Gary