I received Smolt1's press by mail today and I have to say I'm impressed!
Build and functionality : This press is built a little different than the standard dutch style press; For instance the plunger guide is built ABOVE the lever giving more room inside the press area (about 10.5" high). Also, this press has an adjustable lever "origin point" with both an x5 mechanical advantage and a x9 mechanical advantage. I tested the press tonight and got 300 LBS with 35 LBS of weight!!! Imagine if I added a pulley...
Price comparison : Most dutch style cheese presses are sold $125 or more. This one does the job (and possibly surpasses other presses' mechanical advantage) yet is only $75 and is built sturdy.
Shipping : Was shipped from Oregon, United States and received it in Ottawa, ON, Canada only 5 business days later. Smolt took care to wrap each wood pieces with protective shipping paper in order to avoid scratches on the wood finish.
So, if you're like me and feel uncomfortable building your own press, smolt's press is IMO a great investment for the typical "small batch home cheese maker".
Thanks a bunch smolt1! Well done!!!