Advice on what still to purchase

[Dantuss]

Hi!
Was hoping I could lean the experienced members of this forumn with regards to choosing what still to purchase.
I want to start by distilling via reflux neutral spirits from sugar water mash and from there eventually to making some of the different mashes.
I have a 15.5 gallon sanke keg for a boiler along with the usual turkey fryer lpg style heater.
I have narrowed down my choices to basically two. Both seem well built and capable.
This 2" https://milehidistilling.com/product/2- ... ose-tower/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow
or this 3" https://milehidistilling.com/product/3- ... lux-tower/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow
From what I understand the 3" will run at nearly twice the speed as the 2"

If you had a choice what one of these two would you suggest for some one starting out?

[NZChris]

It seems like a lot to spend on a column that isn't even copper. You might be able to pick up some cheap copper at your local Scrappies.

[still_stirrin]

...If you had a choice what one of these two would you suggest for some one starting out?

NEITHER of those.

They're old-style cooling managed (CM) reflux stills. There are better reflux still designs. CM's are tricky to operate, especially for the freshman distiller...which I assume you are.

I would strongly suggest starting with a simple potstill...here's one at a great price...for starters: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Beer-Keg-Kit-2- ... 0005.m1851" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow

After you've mastered the simple processes of formulating & fermenting, then move up to stripping. This potstill is perfect for that...and it fastens right onto your keg...no modifications necessary.

Then, when you understand these processes, including making good cuts...then move on up to a reflux still. And by then, you'll know more to better make a decision on what to "buy", if you elect to purchase. By then, you'll probably be ready to build your own reflux still head.

Since you're new here, I'm going to suggest you read the Cranky's Spoon Feed thread hot linked in my signature. Read through it all, including all the attached links. You'll have a much better understanding of the hobby when you do.

Be safe. Be responsible. And be discrete.
ss

[greggn]

Just buy some 3" spools, a 3" Tee, ,a 3"-to-2" reducer, some CSST ... and build a CCVM column.

[Danespirit]

+1 On that pot still and the CCVM.

For over 300 $ you can most certainly find some scrap copper or stainless and build both pot- and reflux still.
I don't think you will be happy with the outdated design of these CM stills and how fiddly they are to run.

[jon1163]

These guys know what they're taking about... That being said, I run the 2" you show there and have no problems. I have run it as a reflux with good results but mostly use it as a pot still. Just know that with the 110v heating element it's a bit tough to run it as reflux

[Dantuss]

Did some serious reading about the CCVM still that Dad and the rest collaborated on looks very interesting to me and not to difficult to build looking in on availability of copper supplies in my area so far not looking good for 3" or 2" copper of any sizes but not giving up just yet will continue calling around for materials.

[nuntius01]

...If you had a choice what one of these two would you suggest for some one starting out?

NEITHER of those.

They're old-style cooling managed (CM) reflux stills. There are better reflux still designs. CM's are tricky to operate, especially for the freshman distiller...which I assume you are.

I would strongly suggest starting with a simple potstill...here's one at a great price...for starters: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Beer-Keg-Kit-2- ... 0005.m1851" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow

After you've mastered the simple processes of formulating & fermenting, then move up to stripping. This potstill is perfect for that...and it fastens right onto your keg...no modifications necessary.

Then, when you understand these processes, including making good cuts...then move on up to a reflux still. And by then, you'll know more to better make a decision on what to "buy", if you elect to purchase. By then, you'll probably be ready to build your own reflux still head.

Since you're new here, I'm going to suggest you read the Cranky's Spoon Feed thread hot linked in my signature. Read through it all, including all the attached links. You'll have a much better understanding of the hobby when you do.

Be safe. Be responsible. And be discrete.
ss

i agree with still. this is really cheap and will do what you want to get your feet wet. if you have the means and experience, then you can try building your own. there are tons of experience here and a large number of us have fabricated our own. so, ask if you need any help.

[greggn]

FWIW, I've run that 2" CM column for three years ... and just used it this afternoon. It's capable of producing an exceptional product, especially with the addition of a an extension or two, but it'll take some time to learn its nuances.

That said, I built a CCVM some time ago and have been slowly introducing that into my workflow. It is easy to run and produces a quality product with far less fiddling with cooling water flow rates. I highly recommend you consider it.