Grain mill?

[joyfulheart]

I would like to start grinding my own grains, especially to make bread.  I'd prefer a manual one.  Can anyone recommend a good one, reasonably priced?  Or, does anyone have any tips for picking one out?

Any help is most appreciated!!

Peace ~~

[tinuviel_k]

With manual grain mills you REALLY get what you pay for. I tried a several under $200 and they were not fun to use. They took forever to grind, and often the grind was too coarse and had to be ground twice. I tried the Back To Basics grain mill, and I forget the name of the other one.

I have the electric version of the Family Grain Mill, and I've been pretty happy with it. It is not the best mill out there, but it has done the job for me, and the price is more than fair for the quality. I have not tried the hand crank base, just the electric. At this site you can buy the electric AND the manual base so that you can switch between the two as needed. A great idea, IMO.
http://www.pleasanthillgrain.com/family_grain_mills.aspx

I have heard this one is fabulous, but it is more expensive.
http://www.lehmans.com/store/Kitchen___Grain_and_Grain_Mills___Country_Living_Grain_Mill___1136950?Args=

My advice: unless you live off the grid or are planning on using the mill during power outages or emergencies do not rule out an electric mill right away. The hand crank sounded really fun and romantic to me until I tried it, and then I regretted wasting $90 on the manual mill I'd bought. Unless I could invest in a $400+ manual mill it just isn't worth the time and effort it takes to grind enough flour for one loaf of bread.

[joyfulheart]

Super helpful!  Thank you!