This document studies the use of Vari-Stem blasting plugs compared to conventional stemming at a mine. It collects data on crusher throughput from the mine over 11 months in 2006 and 2008 using the different stemming methods. The average crusher throughput was 410.45 t/hr with conventional stemming and 466.09 t/hr with Vari-Stem plugs, an average increase of 13.56%. Field observations found better fragmentation in hard rock zones when using Vari-Stem plugs. The document recommends the mine continue using Vari-Stem plugs and educating blast crews on their proper use.