I always make the ground and formed with a Jerky cannon. We use Hell Creek jerky mix from
www.FriscoSpices.com we also have jerky cannons there. As far as grinding letting it hang for a few days before grinding and processing allows the blood to leech from the meat and I think you get much better cuts of meat and better ground product as well. Good luck if you have any questions about making anything feel free to call me here at FriscoSpices. 800 762 6689 ask for Mike.