Matching an espresso machine to your needs is the most important decision you need to make when considering to purchase an espresso machine. If the machine does not offer the proper balance and ease of use then the experience will not be good. Choosing the proper espresso machine is like a marriage for some of us espresso junkies. Searching for your match made in Java Heaven. It is important to know what is available and the differences between them. First lets talk about the pistol style espresso machine. The piston style espresso machine is an elegant old world espresso used most by those who enjoy the art of espresso making. The pistol espresso machines produce sensitive aromatic oils and coffee flavors. These machines are considered pieces of functional art and are actually on museum display! They are pretty much the same today and are capable of producing superb espresso.