StillSmart

Hi all,

I'm from Norfolk, UK (kings lynn to be precise)
I'm looking at starting drilling after a few years of homebrewing.
I hoped to find someone to give me a bit of advice, and maybe talk through a still and how it's made etc. (tbh, what ever anyone will share)

Is there a way to locate members by area? Is anyone just local and willing to chat?

Welcome Matilda were a friendly lot here ask away.if there is anyone near you i would think they will private message you as regards a still it all depends on what you want to make ie reflux for neutral pot still for flavour
cheers

Hi, and welcome.

Unless you are already experienced in working with copper or stainless steel, I would recommend buying your first still. That way you get distilling experience (and booze) straight away and there is no time pressure for your diy build.

The Airstill is a great way to start and used ones get a good price on the bay when you no longer need it. As it is a small still, your initial mistakes will also be smaller.

I now use a T-500 and tbh, I'm happy enough with the neutral it gives that I'm not much interested in finishing my diy build. btw, I've spent almost as much for the diy bits as the T-500 cost.

If you do buy a T-500, make sure that you also get a pressure control valve (for the mains water). Makes a world of difference to a cooling management still.

+1 with John51 but I'd also add that, for some, the excitement and satisfaction of a successful DIY build can be half the pleasure of this hobby. Just knowing that you built it from scratch can give you a great buzz when you're collecting distillate from your lastest run and believe me, if I was able to do it anyone can

For others it's what you make that's important and that's why it's great that there are readymades available to buy.

My only concern about buying a spirit still is the possible traceability back to you if vendors are made hand over records as they were in the US.

The only thing they'll ever trace me for are bits of copper pipe and other non-descript bits-and-bobs.

AM

I agree that diy can be fun but as avid diyers learn, it isn't always cheaper. Most of my diy projects use bits of other abandoned projects. I've got about £8k invested in my cellar junk room (over the course of 12 years) and I'd be lucky to raise £500 from the lot of it.

An airstill gives you drink for when you're done for the day with the diy build.

John51 wrote:
An airstill gives you drink for when you're done for the day with the diy build.

Very true!
Been there,done that,have the t shirt.