The Comandante X25 Trailmaster isn't even on the market yet, but we managed to secure a copy at the World of Coffee trade fair in Milan this summer. Designed for outdoor use, the X25 is sturdy, water-resistant, and even leak-proof with the lid. We extensively tested the hand grinder from German manufacturer Comandante as a filter coffee grinder on the go, as well as an espresso grinder.
X25 Trailmaster - Material and Exterior
With the x25 Trailmaster, Comandante is launching a lightweight, stable, and robust version of the classic Comandante – the C40 Nitro Blade. The Trailmaster is designed for outdoor use. While the C40 is a hefty 640 grams, the Trailmaster weighs just 420 grams.
For the sake of transparency : we carry the Comandante C40 MK4 Nitro Blade in both Switzerland and our German shop . We expect to add the x25 Trailmaster to the shop when it becomes available.
The Trailmaster is made from a reinforced techno-polymer called QTP. This is a very sturdy form of plastic. It feels high-quality, has a decent amount of weight, and is relatively scratch-resistant.
The entire Comandante has a polygonal structure, giving the surface a 3D look, similar to some Portuguese tiles. The texture is clearly noticeable, giving the Comandante a certain structure and grip. The grip is also aided by the relatively smaller circumference of the x25 compared to the C40. This makes it easier for smaller hands to grasp.
The mill has a diameter of 5 cm, is 16.5 cm high, and has a circumference of 16 cm. The Comandante lettering also provides support, appearing almost sharp in contrast to the mill's otherwise pleasant grip.
Visually, the sand-colored polygon pattern is reminiscent of desert camouflage, giving it a military-like look. At the same time, it's also artistically modern. What prevails is in the eye of the beholder.
The Outdoor Comandante x25 Trailmaster
We tested the x25 Trailmaster extensively outdoors. It accompanied us on many tours over the summer and early fall. This is the grinder's primary purpose and also its strength: grinding freshly on the go, without the risk of the grinder breaking. This also sets the Comandante x25 apart from the C40 MK4.
The coffee and grinding results, including the particle distribution in espresso, are almost identical between the C40 and x25. This is confirmed by our laboratory measurements. Both grinders also use a virtually identical Nitro-Blade conical burr grinder.
But the 200 gram difference in weight, the size, and the more stable construction - it simply makes the x25 much more fun to use on the go - especially since it's also waterproof when the lid is put on.
Great as a filter coffee grinder - espresso best with upgrade
Filter coffee and alternative brewing methods are the strengths of the x25. We've brewed many excellent filter coffees with a grind setting between 22 and 28 clicks. To count the clicks, the grinder is first completely closed and then gradually opened.
With each click, the grinding cone extends further, making the grinder coarser. For filter coffee, the grind adjustment per click is ideal. For espresso, the increments are too large. For example, grind setting 9 can mean an extraction time of 20 seconds, while grind setting 8 can mean an extraction time of 32 seconds. An additional click in the middle would be desirable. This can be achieved by upgrading the grinder with the Redclix system, but it would be an additional cost.
Alternatively, the resistance can also be increased by adjusting the coffee quantity. The need to adjust the quantity in this way is one of the weaknesses of this hand grinder compared to some electric espresso grinders. Adjusting the coffee quantity requires significantly more understanding of the brewing process than adjusting the grind size.
On the other hand, the Comandante's workmanship, durability, and grinding and particle distribution results are superior to virtually all electric grinders in the Comandante's price range.
That's a strong argument for a hand grinder in this price range, especially since the Comandante x25 Trailmaster has 0 grams of dead space, is easy to clean and thus combines many pro arguments compared to electric grinders.
Conclusion on the Comandante x25 Trailmaster
For filter coffee, whether outdoors , while traveling or stationary, the Comandante x25 Trailmaster is an excellent hand grinder that doesn't have to hide from any electric grinder.
For espresso, an upgrade with the Redclix adjustment is a good idea, allowing you to select the right grind size without having to adjust the grind size. The results are very tasty when the grind size is perfect. This is due, in part, to the narrow and therefore good particle distribution in the main peak of the Comandante x25 Trailmaster.
Update January 19, 2023: We were able to secure a limited number of the Comandante x25 Trailmaster for our German shop. You can find them here while stocks last.
The Comandante X25 Trailmaster isn't even on the market yet, but we managed to secure a copy at the World of Coffee trade fair in Milan this summer. Designed for outdoor use, the X25 is sturdy, water-resistant, and even leak-proof with the lid. We extensively tested the hand grinder from German manufacturer Comandante as a filter coffee grinder on the go, as well as an espresso grinder.
X25 Trailmaster - Material and Exterior
With the x25 Trailmaster, Comandante is launching a lightweight, stable, and robust version of the classic Comandante – the C40 Nitro Blade. The Trailmaster is designed for outdoor use. While the C40 is a hefty 640 grams, the Trailmaster weighs just 420 grams.
For the sake of transparency : we carry the Comandante C40 MK4 Nitro Blade in both Switzerland and our German shop . We expect to add the x25 Trailmaster to the shop when it becomes available.
The Trailmaster is made from a reinforced techno-polymer called QTP. This is a very sturdy form of plastic. It feels high-quality, has a decent amount of weight, and is relatively scratch-resistant.
The entire Comandante has a polygonal structure, giving the surface a 3D look, similar to some Portuguese tiles. The texture is clearly noticeable, giving the Comandante a certain structure and grip. The grip is also aided by the relatively smaller circumference of the x25 compared to the C40. This makes it easier for smaller hands to grasp.
The mill has a diameter of 5 cm, is 16.5 cm high, and has a circumference of 16 cm. The Comandante lettering also provides support, appearing almost sharp in contrast to the mill's otherwise pleasant grip.
Visually, the sand-colored polygon pattern is reminiscent of desert camouflage, giving it a military-like look. At the same time, it's also artistically modern. What prevails is in the eye of the beholder.
The Outdoor Comandante x25 Trailmaster
We tested the x25 Trailmaster extensively outdoors. It accompanied us on many tours over the summer and early fall. This is the grinder's primary purpose and also its strength: grinding freshly on the go, without the risk of the grinder breaking. This also sets the Comandante x25 apart from the C40 MK4.
The coffee and grinding results, including the particle distribution in espresso, are almost identical between the C40 and x25. This is confirmed by our laboratory measurements. Both grinders also use a virtually identical Nitro-Blade conical burr grinder.
But the 200 gram difference in weight, the size, and the more stable construction - it simply makes the x25 much more fun to use on the go - especially since it's also waterproof when the lid is put on.
Great as a filter coffee grinder - espresso best with upgrade
Filter coffee and alternative brewing methods are the strengths of the x25. We've brewed many excellent filter coffees with a grind setting between 22 and 28 clicks. To count the clicks, the grinder is first completely closed and then gradually opened.
With each click, the grinding cone extends further, making the grinder coarser. For filter coffee, the grind adjustment per click is ideal. For espresso, the increments are too large. For example, grind setting 9 can mean an extraction time of 20 seconds, while grind setting 8 can mean an extraction time of 32 seconds. An additional click in the middle would be desirable. This can be achieved by upgrading the grinder with the Redclix system, but it would be an additional cost.
Alternatively, the resistance can also be increased by adjusting the coffee quantity. The need to adjust the quantity in this way is one of the weaknesses of this hand grinder compared to some electric espresso grinders. Adjusting the coffee quantity requires significantly more understanding of the brewing process than adjusting the grind size.
On the other hand, the Comandante's workmanship, durability, and grinding and particle distribution results are superior to virtually all electric grinders in the Comandante's price range.
That's a strong argument for a hand grinder in this price range, especially since the Comandante x25 Trailmaster has 0 grams of dead space, is easy to clean and thus combines many pro arguments compared to electric grinders.
Conclusion on the Comandante x25 Trailmaster
For filter coffee, whether outdoors , while traveling or stationary, the Comandante x25 Trailmaster is an excellent hand grinder that doesn't have to hide from any electric grinder.
For espresso, an upgrade with the Redclix adjustment is a good idea, allowing you to select the right grind size without having to adjust the grind size. The results are very tasty when the grind size is perfect. This is due, in part, to the narrow and therefore good particle distribution in the main peak of the Comandante x25 Trailmaster.
Update January 19, 2023: We were able to secure a limited number of the Comandante x25 Trailmaster for our German shop. You can find them here while stocks last.
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