New Member Introduction

[Threesixzero]

Hello Everyone,
I am just started to tip my toes into the water of HD. I really had my interest peaked when i found and read the book "The Joy of Home Distilling". I have slowly been researching more and deciding what equipment would be the best for my needs and the simplest to learn with.
I would like to mainly focus on whiskey and bourbons simply because that is what my preference is.

When i came across this site and the wealth of information it contains it was both exciting at first and a little overwhelming due to the sheer amount of information. I know i still have a good bit of learning ahead of me before I try with my first run, but I am still excited nonetheless.

Thanks
Alan

[SW_Shiner]

Welcome to the forum.

There plenty of good information to get stuck into here.

[GrumbleStill]

Welcome aboard Alan.

Lots to read and learn here. I read that same book early on in the journey. It’s a good read, and it did inspire me at the time. A bit down the track I will say there is some outdated info in there, especially when it comes to reflux heads. So triple check before making any purchase decisions.

Have fun & stay safe.

[Threesixzero]

I appreciate the info. so far I think i am going to start with a pot still because it seems the simplest to learn on and then I can always upgrade from there

[NorthWoodsAb]

Welcome to HD. Your choice to start with a pot still is a sound decision. Unless you want to make neutral or vodka you may never need anything else.
Cheers

[Reefer1]

Welcome from me too 360
+1 on the choice of still, i would look at a modular still with tri clamps, you can mod. It by buying extra parts if you decide to make Vodi ot neut. Without swapping your boiler. Or you could build your own if you have the skill.
Good luck.

[BlackStrap]

Good to have you Threesixzero

Agreed. This hobby can be over whelming at first, but this group will help keep you going safely in the right direction.

Be safe and have fun
BlackStrap

[Rusty Ole Bucket]

Welcome to HD, Alan. Read a ton, ask informed questions and things will start to click in no time. I was in your shoes less than a year ago and members on HD have helped me build two very different setups (both pot stills) and produce stuff I'm proud to share. You're in the right place to figure it out. If you have the skills or want to learn them, building your own is a very satisfying endeavor, especially once you see it produce.

Dive in and have fun!

Rusty

[Dutch41]

Welcome home, have fun, read much and don't be afraid to ask questions...

[Threesixzero]

Thanks everyone for the warm welcome.
Another thing that has been a huge help for me is visiting a lot of the local craft distilleries near me. It is amazing how many of them love to share their information and even show me the equipment they used to distill "Fuel". I am hoping to start the process in the next month or so. I am lucky to have a friend that got real big into beer making and I have been leveraging him for ideas with the mash and fermenting process.