ZAM Grinder

[lazylathe]

I never really thought 2 grinders were every necessary but somehow, they each have their own distinct abilities. Talking about my new ZAM Grinder and my old faithful friend the @Grinders for Life Brilliant Cut Grinder!
The herb I buy has varying levels of moisture, some being bone dry and other is still curing but still very vapable.
Just a bit of Canadian market info here, but the latest "test" is taking a fully cured nug and pressing it against a wall and seeing how long it sticks there for. The bud we get is extremely sticky and is a challenge for any grinder out there. I have not tried the SLX ceramic coated one yet...

So I use the ZAM for the drier stuff and it always provides a nice fluffy little pile of herb. Perfect amount for a quick vape session.
The BCG is reserved for the sticky buds as it chews through them without any issue except for all the sticky stuff remaining on the teeth. The BCG delivers the most herb for the amount put in, always nice and fluffy.

So far they are turning out to be a nice pair to have on the desk and on the go!
I do prefer a 3 piece grinder but have enjoyed playing tetris with the ZAM, it's a fun little grinder.

V2 is going to be much improved although the current model is no slouch!
Just remember to take into consideration it's size and what you put in and you will be very happy with the ZAM Grinder.

The new colours sound awesome as well and if the anodizing is done by the same place, it is on point!
Very thick and even and solid! Excellent job!

@szai LMAO! Both of us gushing at the same time!
I am using the EVO with some extremely strong Khalifa Kush...

 

[antispleen]

A good pairing with the brilliant cut you say? This little guy has definitely caught my eye!

 

[Ramahs]

Well...I've had my ZAM Grinder for a few weeks now, and I have to say that it has exceeded my expectations.

@lazylathe has already posted different pictures of the many different ways that you can configure this grinder, so I don't feel the need to.

That being said, I received a silver version of this grinder. It's a bit dusty in the image, because I've been using it since I received it:

Mine came with two top inserts, one debowler, and one cup that can be used for storing nugs or anything else:

I also discovered that the cup-insert works in the bottom-half as the ground herb catch chamber. And with the size of the grinding chamber, it works well!

The magnetic band works great, aside from what some others here have said. I can turn it upside down and shake it all around quite violently without the magnet losing it's grip. I have been heavily surprised and happy with how well this magnet works.

And hence, the absence of the center pin, so that it's "all teeth" is a huge plus in my book, and one of the other major features this little personal grinder has to offer.

The grind size/consistency is about perfect for my needs. It's not too course for my vapes that like a finer grind, and it's not too fine for my vapes that like a courser grind. It's a good medium-to-fine grind that's quite universal. I feel like many vaporists will find it meets their needs for almost any personal dry-herb vape on the market right now. Even though the grinding chamber is so small, the herb gets chopped multiple times as it slides down those long teeth. I suspect that function is why/how this grinder accomplishes such a consistent fine grind as it does.

The PTFE liners were a fantastic addition, and it keeps the metal in the bottom section clean. I prefer a three-piece grinder, so I don't use the bottom screen. Given that, I'd like the option of either a longer PTFE insert for the herb-catch at the bottom, or possibly a silicone puck that sits in the space under the current PTFE insert to keep concentrates in.

The top section PTFE debowler insert is a fantastic addition! I always carry an extra container to store my ABV in till I get home, and this eliminates that need. I'm very happy about that.

Also, another addition that I would love to see would be some sort of silicone or even PTFE disk that you could put over the catch bowl and screw the midsection down over it so as to make both an airtight bowl for storage as well as keeping the ground herb stored in that bottom section from falling back into the teeth/grinding section when the grinder is inverted would be a welcome addition that would bring this useful little perfect grinder closer to perfection.

Overall though, this is a great personal grinder for most vaporists who like to grind fresh every time. It's also a true all-in-one pocket grinderI highly recommend it. This manufacturer has made a fantastic entrance to the market. I look forward to future iterations of this grinder.

Thanks for an interesting and unique product, @ZAM . I look forward to what you come up with in the future.

 

[TheThriftDrifter]

@Ramahs great write up. Nice!

Can either of the inserts fit below in the collection bowl.
Is it only the top bowl/space that is airtight? Also is it only air tight if it has an PTFE insert in place?

I'm not into aluminium, but this ZAM is looking mighty tempting.

 

[ZAM]

I'm really impressed with how great and usable the design is. I'm using it with a Dynavap and it's such a great match. It's so nice to use that i'm using it to grind small amounts as needed. I've been vaping more than normal because I've been having such fun testing the thing. The length of the teeth ensure that grinding is not messy. it functions like a larger unit might. it doesn't feel that tiny and it's quite easy to turn and flow through is great. It's very smart and functional design. I feel like I'm gushing but testing's been fun tonight!

I never really thought 2 grinders were every necessary but somehow, they each have their own distinct abilities. Talking about my new ZAM Grinder and my old faithful friend the @Grinders for Life Brilliant Cut Grinder!
The herb I buy has varying levels of moisture, some being bone dry and other is still curing but still very vapable.
Just a bit of Canadian market info here, but the latest "test" is taking a fully cured nug and pressing it against a wall and seeing how long it sticks there for. The bud we get is extremely sticky and is a challenge for any grinder out there. I have not tried the SLX ceramic coated one yet...

So I use the ZAM for the drier stuff and it always provides a nice fluffy little pile of herb. Perfect amount for a quick vape session.
The BCG is reserved for the sticky buds as it chews through them without any issue except for all the sticky stuff remaining on the teeth. The BCG delivers the most herb for the amount put in, always nice and fluffy.

So far they are turning out to be a nice pair to have on the desk and on the go!
I do prefer a 3 piece grinder but have enjoyed playing tetris with the ZAM, it's a fun little grinder.

V2 is going to be much improved although the current model is no slouch!
Just remember to take into consideration it's size and what you put in and you will be very happy with the ZAM Grinder.

The new colours sound awesome as well and if the anodizing is done by the same place, it is on point!
Very thick and even and solid! Excellent job!

@szai LMAO! Both of us gushing at the same time!
I am using the EVO with some extremely strong Khalifa Kush...

Well I'm gushing at these reviews, thank you!

Well...I've had my ZAM Grinder for a few weeks now, and I have to say that it has exceeded my expectations.

@lazylathe has already posted different pictures of the many different ways that you can configure this grinder, so I don't feel the need to.

That being said, I received a silver version of this grinder. It's a bit dusty in the image, because I've been using it since I received it:

Mine came with two top inserts, one debowler, and one cup that can be used for storing nugs or anything else:

I also discovered that the cup-insert works in the bottom-half as the ground herb catch chamber. And with the size of the grinding chamber, it works well!

The magnetic band works great, aside from what some others here have said. I can turn it upside down and shake it all around quite violently without the magnet losing it's grip. I have been heavily surprised and happy with how well this magnet works.

And hence, the absence of the center pin, so that it's "all teeth" is a huge plus in my book, and one of the other major features this little personal grinder has to offer.

The grind size/consistency is about perfect for my needs. It's not too course for my vapes that like a finer grind, and it's not too fine for my vapes that like a courser grind. It's a good medium-to-fine grind that's quite universal. I feel like many vaporists will find it meets their needs for almost any personal dry-herb vape on the market right now. Even though the grinding chamber is so small, the herb gets chopped multiple times as it slides down those long teeth. I suspect that function is why/how this grinder accomplishes such a consistent fine grind as it does.

The PTFE liners were a fantastic addition, and it keeps the metal in the bottom section clean. I prefer a three-piece grinder, so I don't use the bottom screen. Given that, I'd like the option of either a longer PTFE insert for the herb-catch at the bottom, or possibly a silicone puck that sits in the space under the current PTFE insert to keep concentrates in.

The top section PTFE debowler insert is a fantastic addition! I always carry an extra container to store my ABV in till I get home, and this eliminates that need. I'm very happy about that.

Also, another addition that I would love to see would be some sort of silicone or even PTFE disk that you could put over the catch bowl and screw the midsection down over it so as to make both an airtight bowl for storage as well as keeping the ground herb stored in that bottom section from falling back into the teeth/grinding section when the grinder is inverted would be a welcome addition that would bring this useful little perfect grinder closer to perfection.

Overall though, this is a great personal grinder for most vaporists who like to grind fresh every time. It's also a true all-in-one pocket grinderI highly recommend it. This manufacturer has made a fantastic entrance to the market. I look forward to future iterations of this grinder.

Thanks for an interesting and unique product, @ZAM . I look forward to what you come up with in the future.

Hell yeah, thank you! And I think I can definitely do some of the suggestions you mentioned. A longer ptfe insert is definitely doable. Once everything is going a little smoother you can expect to see this accessory be one of the first added.

A silicone puck is a great idea too as I know many people still love to store their concentrates in silicone. I originally was going to go with silicone instead of ptfe, but I read ptfe was safer, so I went that route. I still have the prototype silicone molds which are a nice royal blue, perhaps I'll share them.

A ptfe bowl with a cap that fits under the holes is what I'm thinking. This would then be air-tight and would prevent bud from then falling back through the holes when the grinder is inverted.

Some great ideas, thank you.

@Ramahs great write up. Nice!

Can either of the inserts fit below in the collection bowl.
Is it only the top bowl/space that is airtight? Also is it only air tight if it has an PTFE insert in place?

I'm not into aluminium, but this ZAM is looking mighty tempting.

Yup, you can have both the ptfe debowler and the ptfe cup in the grinder at the same time! One of the inserts would need to be placed under the holes. Most people keep the debowler in the top section, and the bucket under the holes.

The top section with the ptfe inserts inserted is completely air-tight, water-tight as they form a seal when closed.

Originally the grinding chamber was designed to be air-tight, water tight as seen in this video:

. In the video you can hear a clear audible pop like a mason jar lid when separating the grinder. However with the latest shipment the tolerance was loosened on the lid, and this audible pop is harder to hear, sometimes it's not there at all.

However this was a trade off that I believe to be beneficial. A tighter lid would provide a better seal, but it would also result in the grinder gumming up quicker. That resin that normally builds on the side of the grinder is almost inevitable. The magnet ring has a very very slick surface that helps prevent this build-up, but eventually it too will gather some gunk. A super-tight lid will be air-tight, but any build-up would result in the turning of the grinder becoming more difficult.

I personally would rather the grinder work well for an extended period without having to clean it. And, to be honest the threading isn't air-tight so it would be a huge trade-off for a only a little bit more smell resistance.

So while I can't be confident that the grinding chamber is completely air-tight, I do believe the grinding chamber is more resistant to smell escaping as the magnetic force is on the perimeter of the grinder rather than the center.

And the threading is not air-tight as far as I'm concerned. I would have to add a rubber O-ring to each section that has threads. Possible for a later version, but more expensive fore sure.

- Zach

 

[mephisto]

Damn it! GAS attack! I will have this little monster! Great looking grinder.

 

[Alexis]

Damn it! GAS attack! I will have this little monster! Great looking grinder.

Buy two and send me one?

Lol, I agree it looks real sweet.

 

[lazylathe]

Buy two and send me one?

Lol, I agree it looks real sweet.

I will send you my black one! Brand new, never been used!
PM me your address bro and I will "Hook a Brother up!"

 

[Ramahs]

I'm glad to see that this grinder is getting the attention that it deserves

Mine has found it's way into a permanent spot in my to-go case!

 

[Jill NYC]

@Ramahs - OT, but gotta ask - what is between the Zam & Nomad?

 

[Ramahs]

@Ramahs - OT, but gotta ask - what is between the Zam & Nomad?

It's a stick that comes with the Nomad, for adjusting your screens and what-not.

Now, back to grinder talk!

 

[szai]

I've been using it daily since getting it and have only had my love of the thing increase. It's such a flexible grinder!

Yesterday my friend overloaded the crap out of the thing and the grinder was unfazed. However the grind was very fine instead.

In all my testing there's only been one flaw to speak of and that's the ptfe lid on the cap. It pops off from time to time but smooshing it helps keep it in place.

 

[ZAM]

I've been using it daily since getting it and have only had my love of the thing increase. It's such a flexible grinder!

Yesterday my friend overloaded the crap out of the thing and the grinder was unfazed. However the grind was very fine instead.

In all my testing there's only been one flaw to speak of and that's the ptfe lid on the cap. It pops off from time to time but smooshing it helps keep it in place.

I love to hear it! The cap coming loose has been acknowledged and should be fixed in the next run.

I have made the magnetic attraction a little stronger as most people wanted.

I reduced the thickness of the holes. This should help prevent bud from getting stuck, specifically that sticky-icky.

There were some minor manufacturing marks that I've fixed. Specifically on the lid threads and the roof of the top teeth.

I've decided to add cobalt blue as a third color. I was trying to decide between cobalt blue and rose-gold, but because rose-gold is such a specific color and this is the first time I'll be adding a specific dye in to the manufacturing process, I wanted to choose a color with a wider margin of error. If the blue is off-shade, it'll still probably be a decent blue. If rose-gold is off, it will be an ugly shade of pink.

I plan to place the next order soon, but I don't anticipate receiving them before Christmas. Production time is about 40 days, then they have to be imported.

Happy Saturday,

- Zach

 

[snaffle]

I just saw these grinders, they look very cool.

I tend to use a really small amount of herb at a time, am I correct in thinking that the part with the ZAM logo could be removed, as well as the part with the screen, so the bottom part was screwed directly onto the bottom teeth part? That would probably make a pretty excellent travel companion for me, particularly with the airtight storage section at the top. At the moment I don't tend to grind on the go, just tear with my fingers, but having truly portable grinder that can carry unground herb could be just the ticket to changing that.

Nice work Zach, well done

 

[Ramahs]

I just saw these grinders, they look very cool.

I tend to use a really small amount of herb at a time, am I correct in thinking that the part with the ZAM logo could be removed, as well as the part with the screen, so the bottom part was screwed directly onto the bottom teeth part? That would probably make a pretty excellent travel companion for me, particularly with the airtight storage section at the top. At the moment I don't tend to grind on the go, just tear with my fingers, but having truly portable grinder that can carry unground herb could be just the ticket to changing that.

Nice work Zach, well done

Yup:

Sure, like this:

 

[yogurtsauce]

Almost bought a grinder, then saw an improvement is coming out. Will wait.

 

[pxl_jockey]

@FlyingLow I've been averaging .5g with pretty dense material, some sticky and some that's super dry. Some loads are .42, some .58 but most hover around .5 (by .01-.02) BUT I don't shove as much material as possible, I'll pop bits off the bud and place them in the teeth on the top part. You can cram that top bit full and it will grind just fine but I experienced material sticking to the magnetic ring with that technique. Easy fix with a toothpick but if I use a little more mindfulness when loading, it's a non-issue. I haven't tried filling both sides of the grinder so that's something to try... I've been impressed with the grind and fluffiness the ZAM gives and I think giving the teeth some room to shred really helps in that department. Hope that this gives you some understanding.

Now ime, the storage compartment can hold two loads using my tech if I remove the screen section as well as the silicone liner from the bottom. So that's a lot of ready-to-vape material plus I still have the top compartment for even more lil nugs in the silicone cup. I'll opt for the debowler cup if using a grasshopper because it's a big help emptying the hopper's chamber. Personally, I don't fuck with saving AVB when mobile, but one could certainly use the top compartment for that purpose on the go.

I kinda wondered if I would have trouble with the small diameter, in terms of grip and hand stiffness/pain but was happily surprised that wasn't the case. After loading and popping the two sides together, I turn it sideways and hold each side in a closed fist like holding onto tiny handlebars and alternate moving my wrists. Which saves the fingers' strength for the important task of dethreading the bottom compartment so you can get to that fresh goodness!

I really hope some other fuckers* with this grinder will chime in on their loading techniques and how they like to configure and use their ZAMs!



*of combustion

 

[Ramahs]

Most of the vapes I use in the situations where I use the ZAM are Dynavap vaporizers, or other vapes that have stems that I also load via vacuum technique, so the ZAM's size is perfectly fine for that. In fact, it's ideal for that.

 

[rnartian]

This is the grinder I've been waiting for without even realizing it. I'm pretty active (hike often, fish often, walk my dog 3 times a day, bike to class, etc.) and I don't even own a grinder; I just break up everything with my fingers absentmindedly while watching King of the Hill at 1am. That probably seems crazy, but I've never seen a grinder give me anything that makes me go, "Oh, I definitely need this". Not until now, anyway. I'm excited for this release, and I'll definitely pick up the black (and rose gold, eventually) when your next batch is in.

(I used to be a weed minimalist Joining this forum has been the worst for my dwindling finances.)

 

[yogurtsauce]

Is this abandoned?

 

[TheThriftDrifter]

Is this abandoned?

I hope not, I'm waiting for the stainless steel version.

 

[lazylathe]

I have been away for a while but still use my ZAM every day and it is great!

Just watching the news and the CoronoaVirus makes me wonder if this has caused a halt since China is being slowly shut down.

@ZAM sorry for the absence but your grinder is still doing what it does best!!
The black one now resides in the UK and will be tested with their products.

Hope all is well and the project is still a go!!!

 

[rnartian]

Is this abandoned?

I was going to ask the same thing, but I didn't want to double post.

I went to the site to check it out, and saw that the site was down I also didn't see any updates on OP's instagram. So I'm fearfully thinking it might be on hold (or worse).

I really wish I could have gotten one of these dudes! it looked like the only grinder I'd need.

 

[yogurtsauce]

I was going to ask the same thing, but I didn't want to double post.

I went to the site to check it out, and saw that the site was down I also didn't see any updates on OP's instagram. So I'm fearfully thinking it might be on hold (or worse).

I really wish I could have gotten one of these dudes! it looked like the only grinder I'd need.

you said everything that I thought

 

[ZAM]

Hey people, don’t worry, everything is still active and going on. Things are going well actually.

I should have supplied an earlier update, I apologize.

I’m stuck in the ever so common situation of not having enough capital to purchase my next shipment of inventory. I was aiming to purchase about 500 grinders, and where I thought I had capital lined up, unfortunately fell through.

I didn’t want to pre sell grinders as I’ve heard the disappoint and troubles when a shipment is delayed. (Though I may presell a smaller quantity if it takes much longer to raise money)

So instead I sent some feelers out to raise money and a couple noteworthy cannabis institutions are interested in investing. I can’t say too much, but things are going very well.

This process can take a little while, and negotiations are important, so I apologize if it takes a little while longer for operations to get up and going.

There’s going to be a Forbes article on ZAM grinders!

This recent scare with the corona virus...is scary. It’s Chinese New Year over there, so all manufacturing is shut down. Whether they’ll be up and running in 3 weeks is anyone’s guess.

So I do have some grinders left that I could sell. Only black ones, and they have manufacturing defect marks along the inside inserted steel ring. I didn’t ship these out or sell them for obvious reasons, but if people want one I would be willing to sell them for a reduced price.

My website is down because I’m dumb and forget to pay the Shopify bill, no issues! I’m fixing it now.

- Zach