MHW-3BOMBER CD-Texture Leveling Tool 58.35 mm – a level coffee bed before tamping
You place the leveling tool on the portafilter, turn it a few times, and underneath, four paddles push the grounds evenly into the basket. The textured grip edge sits securely between your fingers. Then you tamp onto a coffee bed that is nicely distributed.
The leveling tool from the CD Series by MHW-3BOMBER consists of three parts: a lid made of aluminium alloy, an adjustment ring and a stainless steel base with four paddles (Four Oars). With the adjustment ring you set how deep the paddles reach into the basket. That way you adapt the tool to your dose. With a diameter of 58.35 mm, it is made for 58 mm portafilters.
Setting the right depth
You set the depth once to match your usual dose. The goal is a smooth surface: the paddles should distribute the grounds, not compress them yet. If you change the dose or the coffee, it is worth a quick check whether the setting still fits.
Leveling tool or WDT?
A WDT tool such as the MHW-3BOMBER Lightning WDT Tool 2.0 uses fine needles to break up clumps throughout the coffee bed. A leveling tool works on the surface and creates a level top before tamping. In our experience, the two complement each other well: first WDT, then the leveling tool, then the tamper.
Cleaning
Lid, adjustment ring and base can be separated from each other. That gives you good access to the paddles. We wipe the base with a dry cloth after use and take the tool apart now and then for a more thorough clean.
At a glance
| Brand |
MHW-3BOMBER |
| Series |
CD Series |
| Type |
Leveling tool (distributor) with adjustable depth |
| Diameter |
58.35 mm, for 58 mm portafilters |
| Base |
Stainless steel, four paddles (Four Oars) |
| Material |
Stainless steel, aluminium alloy |
| Construction |
Lid, adjustment ring and base, separable for cleaning |
| Weight |
about 500 g |
| Colour |
Black |
Who it’s for
For anyone with a 58 mm portafilter espresso machine who wants a level surface before tamping without smoothing it with a finger every time. For example in the morning, when things need to be quick but the routine should stay the same. Or when you work with a fixed dose and want to set the tool once and then simply use it.
Tip from our café: We set the depth so that the paddles just smooth the surface, and check it again when we change the dose. With our Cozy Chocolate, a chocolatey, dark natural from Brazil, and with the nutty blend Nutty Delight, we usually work with a fixed dose, so the setting stays the same for a long time. With the elegant single origin Jungle Flower from Peru, an especially even distribution pays off in our experience, because delicate aromas are otherwise quickly lost. That is our recommendation, one of many.
What goes with it
If you prefer a tool that sinks under its own weight and distributes as it goes, take a look at the MHW-3BOMBER Gravity Leveler/Distributor. For loosening the grounds beforehand, the Lightning WDT Tool 2.0 is a good fit. You will find more tools under Leveler and Distribution Tools, all products from the brand at MHW-3BOMBER and the right roasts under Coffee Beans.
Frequently asked questions
How do I set the depth?
With the adjustment ring between lid and base. Set the depth so that the paddles smooth the surface without compressing the grounds, and check it again when you change the dose.
Does the leveling tool fit my portafilter?
It measures 58.35 mm and is made for 58 mm portafilters. For machines with 51 or 54 mm portafilters it is too large.
Does the leveling tool replace the tamper?
No. It distributes and smooths the grounds before tamping. After that you tamp as usual.
How do I clean the leveling tool?
Lid, adjustment ring and base can be separated from each other. In our experience, wiping the base with a dry cloth is usually enough.
How quickly will the leveling tool be delivered?
Delivery takes 2–4 working days, throughout Switzerland and to Liechtenstein. Click & Collect is available in Bern and Zurich.
Can I see the leveling tool before buying?
Of course. Visit us in our showrooms in Bern (Gerberngasse 44) and Zurich Oerlikon (Hagenholzstrasse 50b). It is best to ask briefly beforehand whether it is currently on site.
