Since I have been a barista, I have followed the method of loading the portafilter, evenly distribute and swipe back into the dosing chamber, light leveling tamp with the tamper then (here is the part in question) a light, easy knock on the cleat of the portafilter with the handle of the tamper to settle the espresso off of the sides of the basket, followed by a harder polishing tamp before loading into the group.

 

Even if I deliberately try not to do the "tap" it is just muscle memory reflex and I do it anyway.  Pros, cons, good, bad??? Whats the deal, please post your position.

 

Happy tapping!!

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