
( Brand: Lem ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 1868 ), ( Color: Silver ), ( Material: Stainless Steel ), ( Type: Meat Grinder ), ( Unit Type: Lb ), ( Features: Ergonomic ), ( Components Included: Mixer )
The **1868 BigBite Tilt Meat Mixer with 50-Steel Blade** is a robust, professional-grade kitchen workhorse designed to transform raw ingredients into perfectly emulsified, smooth, or finely chopped mixtures with unmatched efficiency and durability. Engineered for both home cooks and culinary enthusiasts who demand precision and consistency, this mixer stands out with its **heavy-duty 50-steel blade**, a high-carbon alloy known for its exceptional hardness and resistance to wear, ensuring years of reliable performance even when processing tough meats, frozen fruits, or dense doughs. The **BigBite design** features a wide, aggressive blade with deep grooves and sharp edges, allowing it to effortlessly break down ingredients from ground beef and poultry to nut butters and ice without clogging or overheating. Its **tilting head** mechanism, a hallmark of professional-grade mixers, enables easy access to the bowl for quick additions or adjustments mid-mix, while the **durable stainless steel tilt head** resists corrosion and maintains a sleek, hygienic surface that s a breeze to clean. The mixer s **high-torque motor** delivers consistent power, handling everything from light batters to heavy-duty meat loaf mixtures with ease, while the **adjustable speed settings** provide control over texture, from coarse to ultra-smooth. Built to last, the **heavy-duty base** is constructed from cast aluminum, providing stability and heat dissipation to prevent overheating during prolonged use. Whether you're crafting homemade burgers, whipping up velvety sauces, or experimenting with artisanal pet treats, this mixer s **combination of power, precision, and durability** makes it an indispensable tool for anyone serious about elevating their culinary creations. Its **timeless industrial design**, with its bold, utilitarian aesthetic, also adds a touch of vintage charm to any kitchen workspace, blending functionality with a nod to classic craftsmanship.
The **1868 BigBite Tilt Meat Mixer (50 Steel)** is a popular commercial-grade meat mixer designed for professional use in butcher shops, restaurants, and large-scale food preparation. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros**
1. **Durable Construction**
The mixer is built with **50-gauge steel**, which is significantly thicker and more robust than standard residential mixers. This makes it resistant to warping, rust, and heavy-duty use over long periods. The heavy-duty motor and gearbox are also designed to handle continuous operation without overheating.
2. **High Capacity and Efficiency**
With a **10-gallon capacity**, it can process large quantities of meat, bones, and other ingredients quickly. The **tilt design** allows for easy loading and unloading of ingredients, reducing manual labor. The **BigBite blade system** is designed to break down tough cuts of meat, bones, and connective tissue efficiently, making it ideal for grinding, chopping, and emulsifying.
3. **Commercial-Grade Performance**
The motor is **high-torque**, capable of handling dense or fibrous ingredients without stalling. This is crucial for professional kitchens where consistency and speed are prioritized. The mixer is also **sanitation-friendly**, with smooth surfaces that are easy to clean and disinfect, which is essential for food safety compliance.
4. **Versatility**
The **interchangeable blades and attachments** (e.g., grinding, chopping, emulsifying) allow it to perform multiple tasks beyond just meat grinding. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for butchers, delis, and restaurants that need a multi-functional mixer.
5. **Longevity and Reliability**
Many users report that this mixer lasts for **decades with proper maintenance**, making it a cost-effective investment in the long run. The build quality is often compared to industrial-grade equipment, though it is still priced affordably for a commercial unit.
6. **Ease of Use**
The **tilt mechanism** simplifies the process of adding ingredients, reducing the need for manual scooping or pouring. The controls are straightforward, and the mixer is designed for frequent use without requiring advanced technical skills.
7. **Warranty and Support**
1868 offers a **limited lifetime warranty** on the motor and gearbox, which is a strong indication of their confidence in the product s durability. Customer support is generally responsive, though response times may vary depending on location.
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### **Cons**
1. **Heavy and Bulky**
The mixer weighs **approximately 150 200 pounds** and is **large and cumbersome**. This makes it difficult to move or relocate without assistance. If space is limited or the mixer needs to be moved frequently, this could be a significant drawback.
2. **High Initial Cost**
While it is priced affordably for a commercial-grade mixer, the **upfront cost is still substantial** compared to residential mixers. Businesses must weigh this against the expected lifespan and return on investment. For small operations or home use, this may not be justified.
3. **Maintenance Requirements**
Like any commercial equipment, the **BigBite mixer requires regular maintenance** to ensure optimal performance. This includes:- **Lubricating the gears** periodically to prevent wear.
- **Cleaning the blades and housing** thoroughly after each use to avoid buildup and bacterial growth.
- **Checking for loose bolts or wear** on the tilt mechanism and motor mounts.
Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature failure or costly repairs.
4. **Noise and Vibration**
The mixer is **loud during operation**, which can be disruptive in shared or open-plan workspaces. The vibration can also cause the mixer to shift slightly on its base, which may require securing it to the floor or countertop.
5. **Limited Portability**
Due to its size and weight, the mixer is **not designed for portability**. If you need to transport it between locations (e.g., catering events), this could be impractical without a dedicated vehicle or helper.
6. **Learning Curve for Optimal Use**
While the mixer is user-friendly, achieving **consistent results** (e.g., fine grind vs. coarse chop) may require some trial and error. Users must experiment with blade speed, ingredient ratios, and processing times to get the desired texture.
7. **Electricity Dependency**
The mixer requires a **dedicated electrical outlet** with sufficient amperage (typically 120V or 240V, depending on the model). If your workspace lacks proper electrical infrastructure, you may need to invest in upgrades, adding to the overall cost.
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### **Conclusion**
The **1868 BigBite Tilt Meat Mixer (50 Steel)** is a **high-quality, durable, and versatile** commercial-grade mixer that excels in professional settings where **reliability, capacity, and performance** are critical. Its **robust construction, efficient grinding capabilities, and ease of use** make it a favorite among butchers, restaurateurs, and food processors. However, its **heavy weight, high initial cost, and maintenance needs** may not make it suitable for **small businesses, home use, or operations with limited space or budget**.
For **professional kitchens, delis, or butcher shops** that prioritize **longevity and productivity**, this mixer is an excellent investment. For **smaller operations or casual users**, a **residential-grade mixer** or a **smaller commercial model** might be more practical.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the 1868 BigBite Tilt Meat Mixer (50 Steel) if:**- You are a **professional butcher, restaurant, or food processor** with a **steady, high-volume demand** for meat grinding and chopping.
- You need a **durable, long-lasting mixer** that can handle **tough ingredients** without frequent breakdowns.
- You have the **space and budget** to accommodate a **heavy, commercial-grade appliance**.
- You are willing to **invest in maintenance** to ensure optimal performance over the years.
**Avoid the 1868 BigBite Tilt Meat Mixer (50 Steel) if:**- You are a **home cook or small business** with **limited use** for a mixer.
- Your workspace has **space constraints** or lacks a **dedicated electrical setup**.
- You are **unwilling to commit to regular maintenance** or prefer a **lighter, more portable option**.
- You can achieve your needs with a **less expensive commercial or residential mixer**.
For most **serious food professionals**, the **BigBite mixer is a worthwhile purchase** due to its **proven reliability and performance**. However, always **compare it with other models** (e.g., Hobart, Kitchenaid, or other 1868 models) to ensure it meets your specific requirements.
Works perfectly. Selling my LEM BigBite 50 lb Tilt Meat Mixer model 1868. Excellent cosmetic condition. Smooth and reliable operation.
Manual hand crank included. Always stored in doors. Removable mixing paddles. Shipping: I only ship within the continental USA.
Includes everything originally included except for the plastic top cover. Heavy-duty stainless steel construction. Condition Notes: Used only twice. This is a heavy-duty stainless steel meat mixer designed for serious home processing, sausage making, and large batch preparation.
The mixer is in excellent condition, works flawlessly, and has been very well cared for. Tilt function for easier unloading and cleaning. Features: 50 lb meat capacity. I purchased it from Schools about one year ago and has only been used twice.
The mixer can be operated manually with the included handle or attached directly to compatible LEM BigBite grinders for hands-free mixing. The tilt design makes unloading and cleaning much easier than standard mixers. I discarded the cover shortly after purchase because never found it useful. Compatible with LEM BigBite grinders for motorized operation.