5 Gallon Still Guide: Copper, Thumper & More
Understanding the Basics of a 5-Gallon Copper Still Kit
A 5-gallon copper alembic still kit is the ideal size for home distillers who want professional-grade results without a commercial footprint. In one compact unit you can perform steam distillation of essential oils or craft small-batch whiskey, moonshine, brandy and hydrosols—using the same principles that master distillers rely on at scale.
Why choose a 5-gallon still?
The five-gallon capacity strikes the perfect balance between test-batch flexibility and output. It produces roughly 1.1 – 1.3 gallons of hearts per run, giving you room to experiment with grain bills, botanical recipes or proof cuts—all without dedicating an entire garage bay.
Core components and what they do
- Copper pot – 1.1 mm quality copper actively removes sulfur for a smoother finish.
- Serpentine condenser – 28 % more efficient coil cools vapor quickly.
- Thumper (optional) – boosts ABV by redistilling vapor mid-stream.
- Laboratory-grade thermometer – ±0.5 °C accuracy keeps the distillation process in the sweet spot.
- Oil separator – channels essential-oil layer away from hydrosol when you’re distilling botanicals.
Copper vs. stainless: does the metal matter?
Copper’s high thermal conductivity and catalytic surface area strip harsh sulfur compounds—something stainless steel can’t match. If you need low-maintenance gear for neutral spirits only, stainless might work. For full-flavor whiskey or therapeutic-grade essential oils, this 5-gallon copper still kit is the clear winner.
Step-by-step: running your first batch
- Prepare your mash / botanical charge. Let it ferment to 8–10 % ABV.
- Assemble the still on a level surface; check gaskets and seals.
- Heat gradually until foreshots begin; discard first 50 ml.
- Collect heads, hearts, tails—monitor proof and temperature.
- Clean immediately using a citric-acid rinse to keep copper ions active.
Know the law before you fire up
Essential-oil and hydrosol distillation is legal in every U.S. state. Alcohol distillation requires a federal TTB fuel or DSP permit and, in many states, a local license. See our 2025 State-by-State Guide for the exact paperwork you’ll need.
FAQs
How much alcohol will a 5-gallon still produce?
With a 10 % ABV wash you’ll typically yield about 1.1 – 1.3 gallons of hearts after cuts.
Can I use this still for essential oils?
Yes—just swap grain mash for a botanical charge. The built-in oil separator keeps oils and hydrosol in separate collection vessels.
Is a thumper necessary?
Not required, but a thumper boosts proof by redistilling vapor mid-stream—handy if you want cask-strength spirits in a single run.
Ready to craft your first batch?
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