Wood Magic Mill with stone Grinder

Because not much is written on the internet about the original wooden Magic Mill stone grinder, I thought I would do some research. I purchased a used Magic Mill about 15 years ago for $75 from a friend in my ward who didn’t want a heavy, loud mill anymore. And yes, it is heavy and loud. But at the time, price and performance were more important to me. I have never had a problem with it, and just put it on a lazy susan which helps me spin it from front to back easily. My feeling is that even if something is old, if it works, continue to use it. For those of you that own a newer grinder, you don’t need to read more of this post. However, some of you may have inherited a Magic Mill, or found one at a garage sale, and will want to read further.

The original Magic Mill grinder was manufactured starting in the 60’s in Filer, Idaho. I talked to the original owner’s daughter (now Kuest Enterprise) and she said they sold Magic Mill, Inc. to another buyer about 1976, and then it was manufactured in Salt Lake City, Utah. So, some of you have different labels on your grinders. Kuest Enterprise still makes commercial grinders and the Golden Grain Grinder which is similar to the original Magic Mill. You can use the instruction booklet for the Golden Grain Grinder for your Magic Mill.

Description:

• An impact, or stone grinder
• Has 3/4 hp motor by Dayton or Leeson

• On/Off switch is on the back by the motor (see silver lever above)
• Can grind course to fine flour, or cracked wheat cereal. Adjust the stones closer or further apart by turning the loop-ended wire on the back of the motor (see above)
• Can grind any dry grains such as wheat, barley, rye, spelt, and corn . Do not grind flaxseed or soybeans unless you mix with another grain.
• If it gets gummed up, grind dry corn or popcorn through it on the course setting to clean it out.
• Has a top wood door opening with a steel funnel that guides grains to the stones
• Comes with a hand powered attachable handle for power outages
• Look at the bottom of the stainless steel bin for capacity. Mine holds about 18 cups.Pros: If used correctly, the motor and stones can last for years. Has a manual lever for power outages. Grinds quickly.
  Cons: More difficult to clean than newer mills. Heavy. Loud (consider using ear plugs.) Weevils can hide in stone crevices. Important to run grain through often, so don’t let it sit for years. If you have any concerns, Kuest can replace your grinder stones.

  Tips for Purchase:

• Difficult to find as it is quite popular. Easier to find in Utah and Idaho. Check KSL.com, Craigslist.org, YouAdList.com; sometimes on Ebay.
• Avoid ads that say “vintage” as the price may be higher.
• Lists for $100 – $300. Originally retailed for around $300, but would probably retail new today for over $500. If you get it for $100 or less, you got a great deal. If you inherit it for free, consider yourself lucky.
• Obviously, make sure it works by testing it before you buy. Take a baggie of wheat with you for a test run. Make sure all parts including the pan and handle are with it.
• If finances are tight, this is a great mill to start with.
• Ask sisters in your ward if they want to get rid of one since they might want something newer.
• Great for a large family or those that use a lot of wheat and other grains.

How to Clean a Magic Mill
1. Remove the metal funnel and the metal drawer.
2. Wash the steel flour bin and the funnel in the dishwasher (or with soapy water) and dry completely. Do not return to the mill unless they are dry. DO NOT get the grinding stones or motor wet.
3. After each use, brush out the dust with a clean paintbrush.
4. Wipe the outside of the mill with a damp cloth.

To get rid of weevils, try some of the following:
1. Grind a few cups of corn on the fine setting, then a few cups on the coarse setting. Throw away the cornmeal.
2. Put the grinder in a large garbage bag with a small amount of dry ice on the side of the box for a few days.
3. Scatter bay leaves inside on the sides of the steel flour bin as they keep bugs away.
4. It’s best not to let your grinder sit for years, but to use it regularly.
5. If you have an air compressor hose, just blow it thoroughly outside
See how I grind the wheat at this post

Newer grinders:
MyKitchenCenter.com