Understanding SG to calculate ABV

[Copper Tone]

Getting ready for my first run soon. I'm still having trouble understanding SG and how to calculate it, determine it, etc. if there is a post about this...I'm missing it as I've looked for awhile.

Can someone give me a crash course from start to finish on it? Thanks.

[F6Hawk]

In order to calculate ABV, you need to know OG (Original Gravity or starting gravity; not to be confused with SG Specific Gravity) and FG (Final Gravity). These are subtracted from one another, giving a SG differential. This differential is multiplied by different numbers depending on whom you ask. I used 129 in my spreadsheets, I'v heard 130ish, too. So if you start with OG 1.06, end with FG .998, you have a differential of .062, multiplied by 129 equals 7.99% ABV, or 8%.

You can save time by using the parent site calculators here: http://homedistiller.org/calcs" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" rel="nofollow

[mystakilla]

The calcs are excellent tools, i use them all the time.

[choppinlow]

Coppertone, you do have your hydrometers don't you? Just want to make sure.

[Copper Tone]

I've continued to educate myself quite a bit more on the subject the last few days. Probably got the hang of it.

I DO have hydrometers---two of them. One for the mash, and one for the proofing. Funny thing was the instructions on the hydrometers, once I read them made more sense than all the posts and calculators I've been trying to work.

Thanks for the help.