Is Buying A still Direct From China Worth It?

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  • Опубликовано: 27 сен 2024
  • One of the local home-distillers decided to buy a very nice still direct from China. But was it worth it? Did it turn up in one piece? Was it a quality still?
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Комментарии • 503

  • @dangoldbach6570
    @dangoldbach6570 3 года назад +25

    It's ALWAYS good to have a sparky as a really good friend, no matter what country you live in!

    • @crakkbone
      @crakkbone 2 года назад +1

      You mean a welder?

    • @crakkbone
      @crakkbone 2 года назад +1

      No you mean an electrician

    • @corinneqofhearts5069
      @corinneqofhearts5069 2 года назад +1

      @@crakkbone either way you would have been correct, tbh.

  • @NZRanger
    @NZRanger 5 месяцев назад +4

    I'm totally new to Stilling... got my wife a still for her birthday ( yes, really for her! lol )... we didn't have a clue about any of this and so I got a cheap $260 Chinese still from Amazon because hey, I don't know if we'll even enjoy it!, purchased some turbo yeast, made a sugar wash and a few days later made our first Spirits. While not an ideal setup, it was fun and a fantastic way to become a beginner and get results that are drinkable. Love starting to go through your videos, educational and entertaining.

  • @BeardedBored
    @BeardedBored 3 года назад +59

    I'm sitting over here damn near drooling, hahaha! My jealousy is embarrassing! Very cool video. Great to see the whole process:-)

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад +3

      It's a sweet set-up man

    • @BeardedBored
      @BeardedBored 3 года назад

      @@StillIt Definitely worthy of my envy:-)

    • @silveraven1
      @silveraven1 3 года назад +1

      Hahaha, Bearded..... was thinking the same thing

    • @silveraven1
      @silveraven1 3 года назад

      So the big question is: Is Jesse getting one of these and if not why?

    • @stocken
      @stocken 3 года назад +1

      @@StillIt Thanks for the show. I'm just like so many others here on your channel drooling over that setup. I'm trying to start a small destillery here in Sweden. So, is there any chance of you letting us know the manufacturer of the setup?

  • @alexandruc.5128
    @alexandruc.5128 Год назад +31

    A follow-up video would be really nice.
    I am curious how the thing does after 2 years.

    • @dudetapedtoafridge3073
      @dudetapedtoafridge3073 8 месяцев назад +1

      Probably just fine. The agitator might ware down a little bit but that can easily be replaced for a couple hundred. There isn't much that can go wrong with stationary welded/solderd sheet metal

  • @normalizedaudio2481
    @normalizedaudio2481 3 года назад +84

    His room mate is having trouble with their Subaru.

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад +10

      Hahahah can't work out why it's over heating!

    • @jttech44
      @jttech44 3 года назад +9

      @@StillIt It's a subie, probably just a head gasket

    • @scootermcgooginhime2464
      @scootermcgooginhime2464 3 года назад +2

      Definitely a head gasket 😂😂

    • @ailkenllib
      @ailkenllib 3 года назад

      Great video. Love his coolant setup.

    • @Muza1616
      @Muza1616 3 года назад

      Not surprised its a subaru

  • @a3970010
    @a3970010 Год назад +2

    I built my 1st still recently after 5 months of watching Jamie and a couple others. I decided on a 35L Digiboil, a generic copper alembic dome, SS 2" column with reflux cond. and main cond. with a sight glass and digital thermometer all in tri-clamp. I added a gin basket at the top and a SS basket inside the boiler for on-fruit/grain distilling. I picked up a Brewzilla heat wrap as well. I sourced the parts from whoever had the part I wanted cheapest. Most of the 2" column parts are all from China. The SS basket is for an 8qt. Instapot. I set up the main cond. cooling to run off a hand made garden hose adapter with shut off valve for flow control. The reflux cooling is a separate 1/4" system with a pond pump in a big bucket. All together about $800. I can use it to make almost anything. I hope this helps other with build ideas.

  • @kennethw.puckett8988
    @kennethw.puckett8988 3 года назад +7

    All I can say is " I Love It " and now he has a still that every time he uses it he will get better . All so many years of enjoying it .

  • @jcmining9450
    @jcmining9450 3 года назад +10

    Lucky man indeed , let’s face it people spend many times more on jet skis , boats , motorcycles, ect it’s his hobby , very keen to see your follow up vid in the future , cheers jesse tip top work as usual 🥃👌🏼

  • @MultiTut69
    @MultiTut69 3 года назад +8

    I like the longer, more in depth video. Great job!

  • @gregshailer2702
    @gregshailer2702 3 года назад +16

    Great video, would definitely be cool to do a series on still building experiences from different price points and perhaps some number 8 wire approaches as well.
    Good job Jesse keep em coming!👌👌

  • @wesleyhatfield1955
    @wesleyhatfield1955 3 года назад +14

    I've been running a 30L china special for the last 6 years. It's stood up to aaaalot of use. I've averaged a run per week for those 6 years and the only failure has been a brass retaining nut that secures the pot-mounted thermometer. It simply disintegrated at about 3 years. Replaced for 50 cents. Guys, don't buy the cheapest of the Chinese products but their mid->upper range stills are a heckuva value. You can spend more on "made in XXXXX" if you need the support but don't kid yourselves. Most of the components in that gear are from the far east regardless.

    • @GrantMcWilliams
      @GrantMcWilliams Год назад +1

      "Most of the components in that gear are from the far east regardless." That is the reality. You see a lot of fear based on racial stereotypes in these threads about stuff being built in China so people buy "Made in America" or "Made in XXXX" and those are just companies selling you stuff made in China anyway. I went down a Coffee rabbit hole and spent quite a lot on espresso makers and grinders and at this point my entire setup is made in China. China has because a technological and manufacturing powerhouse, not just a country making cheap knock-offs. It will take a while for people's perceptions to catch up.

  • @mash352
    @mash352 3 года назад +5

    For that pump, as long as you control it on the discharge side and have fittings that will hold 20-30 psi, you can completely stop flow and not hurt anything. Gotta be on the discharge side though, control flow on the suck side and you'll cavitate. Centrifugal pumps will just sit there and spin with the fluid, not positive displacement like and piston pump that makes a solid seal on discharge and needs relief valve like you're average garage air compressor. But bypassing the extra probably helps with cooling though.
    Thanks for all the videos!

  • @NutPunchChilli
    @NutPunchChilli 3 года назад +15

    Manifold is for a pressure release valve and pressure gauge. Can be found on there EBay page

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад +5

      Interesting, internet detective ftw!!

    • @expattyNZ
      @expattyNZ 3 года назад +4

      Cheers! I will research it.

  • @RiggerBrew
    @RiggerBrew 3 года назад +15

    the more local shops who "make similar product" want 4x the money... I can't blame anyone who is trying to save while still getting quality....

    • @alexb5766
      @alexb5766 3 года назад +1

      Love the USA got same still with 28g boiler no oil Jacket and no electric controller for low 2k

  • @CC-wq8yz
    @CC-wq8yz 3 года назад +4

    I also operate a Chinese still. Not quite as spanky as that one but what I like most about it is using the boiler for mashing, fermenting and distilling. All OK for a hobby based op. No complaints about quality.

  • @billmartz4290
    @billmartz4290 3 года назад +5

    I love it! What a beautiful still. Here in the U.S.A. we can't play like you folks. If the thing works as well is it looks...I'm really glad for the man. I just run a 30L copper pot still. I have no real drinking buddies around here so I don't require a nice still like that. Great video! Cheers!

  • @jasonjeffers3929
    @jasonjeffers3929 3 года назад +4

    Yes I would love to see some lower end stills and how to save money we all try to save if we can. And when we can.

  • @bookie60
    @bookie60 3 года назад +6

    I hope so cause I already did. bought the same column but I'm not ready for the jacketed pot yet. bought the same control box but they also offer with a PID. No customs fees in the US so no hidden fees there. Don't know if it did at the time this was shot but it clearly states on their website that the control box doesn't include any wiring from mains or to the elements so no surprises for me there. I already have a 60 amp welder circuit and am familiar with wiring the elements so I'll be good to go. Unfortunately I am not in the US at the moment so I won't be able to report on quality until May. I am encouraged by the findings of your friend Dana. Thanks this was a great video. I had seen a few reviews on other channels but none really looking in depth at the quality workmanship like yours.

    • @MrJhchrist
      @MrJhchrist 3 года назад

      PID's are inherrently flawed for distilling, please do a few searches maybe on homedistiller or another reputable source. They are only promoted by people lacking a basic understanding of how distillation works. Simple power or voltage regulation works perfectly, but trying to control that process based on a thermoprobe is a massive fail.

    • @bookie60
      @bookie60 3 года назад

      @@MrJhchrist I have done some research on the use of PIDs. I intend to also use my controller for mashing and boiling on a separate vessel which is why I chose a PID. It is my understanding I can use it in manual mode which is basically like looking at a digital thermometer and making power adjustments with that readout as a reference. I'm not a beginner and I have mashed boiled and distilled with manual control as well as direct fire propane before. I decided I would like to try PID and if it doesn't work out as expected the price difference is minimal in the grand scheme of things and will be very easy/cheap to retrofit.

    • @MrJhchrist
      @MrJhchrist 3 года назад

      @@bookie60 Right on. I think it's important to make the distinction though as "manual mode" literally has nothing to do with Proportional-Integral-Derivative control. While some PID controllers do allow for a manual power control, that is a completely different thing and any random newb reading our comments should hear that. Especially since a few very inexperienced distillers have fairly large platform on YT and also happen to sell PID controllers. Actual PID control is great for mashing, terrible for controlling a still boiler where the boiling point inherently varies from batch to batch as well as throughout every run.
      But by all means if a PID controller also offers power control then it can be used for boilers as well as mashing (or fermenting, or sous vide etc).
      Cheers

    • @chrishayes4006
      @chrishayes4006 3 года назад +2

      I don't really give a shit how some random noob interprets my random youtube comment. I don't really think I have a burden of responsibility here. Especially when George over at barley and hops (who by the way seems to have a fairly good understanding of the basic principles of distillation) is making whole videos about how great pids are. My original comment only barely mentioned the fact that Oak Stills controller is also offered with a pid. And I only mentioned it because some people might want one and they don't list it on their website. Should have known I would get scolded by some forum dad. You know on second thought I'm gonna run in full PID mode and leave my still unattended and see if the garage blows up or if it makes pure methanol and I go blind.

  • @BSpinoza210
    @BSpinoza210 2 года назад +1

    Y'all have the most legit shirts. Respect from an old school moonshiner in the states.

  • @mrfnk
    @mrfnk 3 года назад +1

    My 1,000 phone was made in China. It’s pretty nice. Better than any phones made in America

  • @nothinghere1996
    @nothinghere1996 6 месяцев назад

    all my boilers and copper work are Chinese made. The workmanship is excellent, and they are good to make business with.

  • @viske00
    @viske00 3 года назад +6

    I also have a still from aliexpress and it's the best one i have, distillex has the best stills and parts!

    • @robertfontaine3650
      @robertfontaine3650 3 года назад

      The only problem with distillex is DHL for us small buyers. 40$ parts with 90$ shipping charges.

  • @-MacCat-
    @-MacCat- 3 года назад +4

    Yes, I am jealous too, in the nicest of ways!
    But that's a big bucket of money, albeit for a very large professional bit of kit, which tends to make me think, as a few have mentioned already, that James might have some difficulty in showing that it is solely for his personal use/hobby.
    Finally, the "journey" that many of us take in getting to a useable, and personal, still is one that James seemed to have bypassed.
    Many of us prefer the "Jesse" method, i.e. buy stuff, get stuff made, discover better ways to do stuff by failing at some etc. etc.
    Overall, more power to you James and good luck with it all 👍
    The only downside, which I must mention, is that it's a crying shame you couldn't get NZ made product(s) to fulfil your needs 🙁

  • @AcrylicGoblin
    @AcrylicGoblin 10 месяцев назад

    This gives me a new respect for a pot still and propane stove. His setup is so much more complicated. As far as price goes, he did get a good value.

  • @boberry66
    @boberry66 3 года назад

    Putting together my still from Oak Stills. 26 gallon. Great quality!!! I’ve probably never been happier with a product for the money.

  • @charlesschmidtke8427
    @charlesschmidtke8427 3 года назад +5

    Got a 53 gallon w/6” column from mile high distilling it’s amazing

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад

      Nice

    • @keithfisher756
      @keithfisher756 3 года назад

      How much was it?

    • @charlesschmidtke8427
      @charlesschmidtke8427 3 года назад +3

      Tots with controller and pumps ect I’m 8500 in. But we are starting a micro distillery.

    • @robertfontaine3650
      @robertfontaine3650 3 года назад +1

      @@charlesschmidtke8427 Are the commercial controllers worth having for a hobbyiest? SCR or even PID with a soldering iron seem like enough for a tended still. Ground Fault circuit is the only part you need to buy that is expensive.

    • @thomasa5619
      @thomasa5619 3 года назад +1

      @@robertfontaine3650 what do you mean by “ground fault circuit”? You mean getting an electrician to install GFCI protection?

  • @hypnopooper6252
    @hypnopooper6252 3 года назад +10

    If its Jacketed, the more economical route is to use water in the jacket, fill above the heat elemetns, to where the lowest check valve is at. The high density steam is is more efficient than a liquid bath bain marie. Additionally its also more responsive to changes in heat adjustments.

    • @pero2727
      @pero2727 3 года назад +1

      That will create very low density steam. High density steam is what you have in powerplants where the vapor is so dense it's damn near 1kg/L You need a very high pressure vessel if you want to hold the high density steam and the fact that the still is robbing the jacket of so much heat and there is only a few kW of power to produce that steam there will never be anything other than just a very very low density steam in this setup.

    • @hypnopooper6252
      @hypnopooper6252 3 года назад +2

      I run a 150liter jacketed boiler similar to this one, trust me the jacket with enough water to keep the 2 5500 watt elements submerged with steam in the jacket is more than adequate to boil the mash in this guy's boiler. There is no need for oil or glycol, that just adds unnecessary costs to running you still. Maybe its not high pressure, but the steam itself is very dense and will boil the mash to 212F very easily.

    • @pero2727
      @pero2727 3 года назад +1

      @@hypnopooper6252 Indeed! However what you have is not high density steam. High density steam is wet steam above 10 bar of pressure. I doubt your jacket can hold even 2 bar. It most probably is vented to atmosphere.

    • @BrazilSaint
      @BrazilSaint 3 года назад

      Seconded on this - my jacketed boiler works way better when not full of water. I’ve not thought about using Glycol before - I would be interested to see sone stats on how that higher boiling point impact on overall times.

  • @hypnopooper6252
    @hypnopooper6252 3 года назад +2

    New still day is always a great day!

  • @rexmorgan72
    @rexmorgan72 3 года назад +4

    That thing is gorgeous.

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад +1

      Sexy all right ;)

  • @Adam-fr8ly
    @Adam-fr8ly 3 года назад +4

    I’ve just done the same exercise - 50L 4 plate, 4 inch still, big whiskey head/onion, gin basket, and and and.
    Sitting in the box at hone waiting for me to get back and unpack it.
    Price was about half of what I could get for exactly the same item locally.

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад +2

      New toys. . . . Exciting!

    • @Adam-fr8ly
      @Adam-fr8ly 3 года назад +1

      Who doesn’t love new toys!?

    • @silveraven1
      @silveraven1 3 года назад +1

      This is what I’m thinking 50L not a 100L . Do you have a link you’d care to share where I can look at your still?

    • @Adam-fr8ly
      @Adam-fr8ly 3 года назад

      @@silveraven1 Dunno how to do that here, but if you message me in FB I’ll be able show you some pics.

    • @robertfontaine3650
      @robertfontaine3650 3 года назад

      @@silveraven1 50 litre is a beer keg 1/2 barrel. You can buy them used for cheap. look up keggle.

  • @FedericoLucchi
    @FedericoLucchi Месяц назад

    My still is Chinese, the cheapest I found (70$). It was crap, but after adding some inox tubing to make the column large enough for packing (20$), it's quite usable! Like with most cheap Chinese inox, the welds aren't too good and tend to get some surface rust. The rust always washes out with the foreshots. Not great if you're serious about the craft, but for a low-budget hobbyist it's OK

  • @Enlowra
    @Enlowra Год назад

    I worked at a distillery company for a few years, and we ordered ALL the stills from China to resell them. Several distillery brands get their tanks from China. Then, we modified them a little to make them work correctly. Most of them have held good through the years, and the ones that didn't were usually ruined over the operator. I no longer work there and have nothing to gain from it. If you're curious about running a Chinese still, they work just fine. Some tanks may require modifications to function if you buy straight from China.

  • @wd6358
    @wd6358 3 года назад +5

    I'm a beer brewer so I have no idea whats going on in this video but its definitely interesting. I can tell this is a very nice setup tho

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад +6

      Careful mate. Keep associating with us and you may be pulled over to the dark side 🤣

    • @russellmcgahee942
      @russellmcgahee942 3 года назад +1

      You are now entering the Zone of distillers and mad scientist all. So you make beer that's good because you must make a "wort, mash, beer"; all the same thing just different names before you can distill it. This in a great hobby and I wish you well. A jar of good shine will open doors that a dollar bill cant. Bio-Clinical engineer here. I love this stuff.

  • @mndlessdrwer
    @mndlessdrwer 3 года назад +4

    To get that kind of still for that price, wow. If it performs as well as it looks, that'll make his distillations so much easier, more precise, and faster. He's going to absolutely love having that little pot at the drain for his specific gravity readings, since it's just another means of confirming that your distillate is coming over at the rate you want it with the separation from the parent solution that you're looking for, so you can adjust your reflux on the fly until it behaves how you like. Such a cool piece of kit for the money.

  • @51rwyatt
    @51rwyatt 3 года назад

    enjoy watching three guys play with a great new toy

  • @andyh7537
    @andyh7537 3 года назад +2

    That odd bit of "manifold" that you found @7:13 is part of the pressure relief valve system.

  • @davefellhoelter3299
    @davefellhoelter3299 3 года назад

    I did "cleaning" for start ups or rework on FDA food and Pharm stills and posses piping, run Tri Sodium Phosphate(TSP) at steam temps, low% to water (1tbs per gal) PH about 10 or 11. Gets rid of any oils and others used in manufacturing or shipping. Neutralize with Citric/Ascorbic or vinegar over board. Then run with your acid of choice, overboard, rinse, and ready to go!
    Works good on ammo cleaning too.
    Thanks for the info guys!

  • @top6ear
    @top6ear 3 года назад +1

    Damn!!! Sweet. DIY Guys are DIY guys anywhere in the world. I want a 200L still to do a big barrel in 1 run.

    • @robertfontaine3650
      @robertfontaine3650 3 года назад

      You could go with 3 gallon barrel or even a bain marie then 40 gallon brute bucket and a beer keg still will fill 3 gallons. 200l stills are always expensive and jacketed is double that.

  • @ernestw9454
    @ernestw9454 3 года назад +1

    Oak still the best just got my new 100l boiler from them,... have a great fun guys 😁

    • @dakkarocka
      @dakkarocka 3 года назад

      Just ordered a 4inch flute and an 8 gallon boiler off them. Can't wait for it to arrive.

  • @GrantMcEwing
    @GrantMcEwing 3 года назад +2

    Plum brandy - sieve the seeds out first before charging the boiler, using a 6 mm sieve. Otherwise mill the fruit and make a puree for fermenting. Even with a spherical bottom kettle, the plum pits clog up a 2 inch TC port and ball valve. Nice work.

    • @horrorhotel1999
      @horrorhotel1999 Год назад

      Breaking up all the seeds in your plums before mashing or even distillation will definitely put you far over any threshold for cyanamide which any country considers "safe" or you'll have to end your run a LOT earlier, and even then you're kind of pushing it.
      There are drum based sieve machines which will remove the seeds from stone fruits without damaging them, but they are often either very big or very expensive bits of kit, sometimes both.
      The most compact one I could find is the robot coupe c80, but if you can't find one second-hand, it really is too expensive to buy new.
      A better solution is to allow for backpurging on the outlet so you can dislodge stones if they do get stuck. That way, a 2" TC port will be able to handle almost anything besides the more stubborn grappa mashes, though it does use more water and creates more backset.
      Depending on your strategy of elimination that might be a bigger issue than clogging though.

    • @GrantMcEwing
      @GrantMcEwing Год назад

      @@horrorhotel1999 We used an apricot mill to separate out the pits. The mill works better with the varieties that have smaller pits.

  • @nathanielcatsicas9792
    @nathanielcatsicas9792 3 года назад +2

    Awesome to see! I've just bought myself a column from the exact same company. Very impressed with their customer service. Quality isn't the best but should work well. Ended up with a 4 inch, 6 plate borosilicate glass column. Has a 20 inch packed section before the dephlegmator. Running 2x2200w elements in a cut an shut double keg boiler. Maiden voyage in less than two weeks with good old tpw. Should step my shed game up!

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад +1

      Oh man. That sounds epic!

    • @nathanielcatsicas9792
      @nathanielcatsicas9792 3 года назад +2

      You got a way to share pics? Would gladly keep you updated on it brother!

    • @markeltom224
      @markeltom224 3 года назад

      Hey Nathaniel, I just go the same one. Shoot me an email on markeltom@gmail.com - keen to know how you got on!

  • @blakemeding7917
    @blakemeding7917 3 года назад +2

    You need a globe valve if you want to throttle flow, to keep the valve from washing out. I can't imagine it would be a real-world problem with low-pressure water though more of a high-pressure thing. That's what we use in oil and gas applications.

  • @chrishayes4006
    @chrishayes4006 3 года назад

    For those interested, it's not listed on their website but they also sell their temperature control box with a PID.

  • @robertfontaine3650
    @robertfontaine3650 3 года назад +3

    mmm, chinesium. I have about 100 more Chinese shipments to go before I have all my piece parts. Love Ali but you have to be very patient. Being able to order a pallet with all the bits would be so nice. 30 gallon pot, 4" column. Those are big batches for a home brewer. Getting that jacketed pot is a big win and he might have saved money buying bits and pieces but he could have easily ended up spending more buying things twice and adding all the different shipping costs. Seems too big for a hobbyist to me but I certainly wouldn't turn it down if you sent it to me.

  • @christinexu7525
    @christinexu7525 3 года назад

    It looks nice, our company also produce it!! This is Christine, a sales from DYE company which is a professional manufacturer in China, mainly producing distilling, brewing equipment, freeze dryer, stainless steel tanks etc.

    • @kjdevault
      @kjdevault Год назад

      Do you have a link to your company or where your products are available?

  • @michaelmcclain9702
    @michaelmcclain9702 3 года назад

    Even thow im from the us and 100% believe in buying 🇺🇸. That thing is a beauty and the set up is ingenious! If distillation alcohol was legal for a home hobby in the USA and I had the funds i would totally invest in 1 from that company. Absolutely awesome

    • @17hmr243
      @17hmr243 2 года назад

      iv just brought us tripod "deathgrip" had to add parts and fix it from min1 this by us is over rated

  • @lyetts
    @lyetts 3 года назад +1

    Man, those kids in China are getting pretty good with a TIG welder haha. Just playing. Great Video

  • @anthonybeach9888
    @anthonybeach9888 3 года назад

    Awesome Jesse, Happened on this video and was so surprised to see my friend James showing off his new Still. He never does anything by halves. Cheers

  • @ubza1234
    @ubza1234 2 года назад

    Me and a mate are going through this exact process ATM. This is bloody great!

  • @MysticDonBlair
    @MysticDonBlair 3 года назад +4

    Please do more reviews of similar built stills

  • @mandrakechannel6471
    @mandrakechannel6471 3 года назад

    The gaskets in column must fitet properly and it must have a puzz for a bublle plate. Thats to avoid leaking. My one is only 50l boiler but it's works right out of a box. Good luck guys! Congratulations for a nice buy!

  • @MysticDonBlair
    @MysticDonBlair 3 года назад +8

    Please review different distillation companies to see quality, selection, cost, customer service, etc...

  • @warrencourt7938
    @warrencourt7938 3 года назад +1

    I was looking at a similar un-jacketed still from milehigh in the US. Perfect timing for the video.

    • @jasonpowell8582
      @jasonpowell8582 3 года назад +2

      I have the 8 gallon from Mile High, excellent quality gear, good service, still way more expensive that I could have brought from China. Slight pang of buyers remorse.

    • @warrencourt7938
      @warrencourt7938 3 года назад +1

      @@jasonpowell8582 don't have buyers remorse. From what I have read about milehigh, they are in the business of providing the best quality they can. It probably far exceeds what is needed, but you have the best. Enjoy what you have and slumber in the comfort of having something special! There are more expensive options I'm sure.

    • @warrencourt7938
      @warrencourt7938 3 года назад +1

      I have been inspired by the still it posts, and those of Barley and Hops, Bearded and Bored too. So much so I have enrolled on a course to look at setting up a legitimate business in the UK to progress my interest to a business. Being in the same job for 15 years with all the uncertainty the last year has brought has made me think about a new avenue. Bless Jesse, George and the Bearded champ for giving me the option to progress to the next step. I may not proceed, but I'll find out what I decide soon.

  • @patbloodysabbath8488
    @patbloodysabbath8488 2 года назад

    i built my own pid and heating grounded heating element with site glass column and reflux chamber works great .my ideas came from Mr.Duncan

  • @danielgodfrey4415
    @danielgodfrey4415 Год назад

    Out of experience, the 4th still I bought was finally made in America.
    More heavy duty
    Has the fittings I need like
    Heating elements and drains
    The pot I bought had everything

  • @conornolan8547
    @conornolan8547 2 года назад

    A really good look at an area that I hope to get to in a year or so. Thanks mate.

  • @kawbmxful
    @kawbmxful 2 года назад +1

    A tiktok creator had a really good video about ethical purchasing from places like China that have bad reputations and there is a fair amount to be said but basically if your willing to do a ton of research (if your planning on being commercial that should be your standard imo) you can find manufactures everywhere that produce cheap products but pays their employees fair wages after you adjust them for purchasing power.

  • @countrylivingwithbeargrill6297
    @countrylivingwithbeargrill6297 10 месяцев назад +1

    Lmao definitely caught me on the spillage

  • @alexdreik
    @alexdreik 3 года назад +2

    It looks like that Tee is to add PRV and other things, something similar is under Distillation Equipment's on their website.

  • @belo2999
    @belo2999 3 года назад +3

    Looks like they shipped him silicone gaskets and not PTFE ones. Ignoring any potential safety issues they will pick up and hold the Gin aromas and flavours so will be OK until he wants to run a neutral and then they will leach flavour back out. PTFE gaskets don't cost much more and work just as well, it just seems strange that companies still ship silicone gaskets that degrade when exposed to quite a few chemicals in the distillate. Acetone, which is in foreshots, swells silicone just at room temperature and can effect the seal, under reflux all gaskets are exposed for quite some time so something to watch out for even if you aren't concerned about using unsuitable plastics in distilling.

    • @jttech44
      @jttech44 3 года назад +1

      Yeah, even if you forget the potential for chemical leaching, you really can't forget about the fact that those gaskets will degrade over time, and if you wait to replace them until they fail, they'll fail in the middle of a run which is a whole mess, not to mention a fire hazard.
      Much better to use PTFE foam gaskets, they last forever, don't get pinched, and unless you're boiling fluorine, you don't have to worry about any chemical leaching.

  • @adrianconroy2534
    @adrianconroy2534 3 года назад

    Always enjoy watching your channel!! I have learned heaps !!!

  • @MrDive2010
    @MrDive2010 3 года назад

    I bought a still from Oak a few years ago, although a lot cheaper version. 100ltr boiler 4” x 4 plates. Also got the control box. Cheap as $1,600 USD delivered. A few issues, the controls box was way over sized, the plates leak a bit, just need tap and tighten as u go. Seeing the jacketed boiler makes me think it’s time for an upgrade! Made heaps of booze, gin, whiskey, rum. I’m the most popular bloke in my street.

  • @hccwarriordan5475
    @hccwarriordan5475 2 года назад

    Let me start by saying I know nothing about stills but I find your content educational. An old shiner told me if I ever get into making shine never buy copper made in China as its not pure copper but is alloyed with other metals {which makes the copper much cheaper to produce} and can have an adverse effect on your product. I also had a HVAC tech tell me the same thing, Chinese copper is not real copper.

  • @johnhacker8338
    @johnhacker8338 3 года назад

    Love the setup. I'm not a still guy at all but when I saw the radiator I knew this guy ain't fucking around.

  • @hondo2757
    @hondo2757 Год назад

    Great video makes me feel a little more confident I have a still coming from China 55 gallon they customized it for me it has a 6-in column a 6-in whiskey helmet and a 6 inch pot still so I can go between two different units it's not jacketed it does have an agitator I'm not using electric elements I'm doing propane because this will be used in West Africa. Love watching you and your adventures I've built most all of my stills myself pot still reflux still and I just completed my first vacuum still which was a real eye opener

  • @mr.dcaniget1subfromyouplea25
    @mr.dcaniget1subfromyouplea25 3 года назад +3

    Definitely Want to see cheaper stills being made. Thats a huge part of the craft, making gold out of air. Making something out of what u have on hand or for as little but as practical as possible. Yes, please do more videos, maybe feature ones idea or still each month. Or a series when they come available to you to interview and then share with us. GREAT IDEA!!!

    • @gsekse
      @gsekse Год назад

      Well... if you really want a cheap still, watch this: ruclips.net/video/SfOL60CsF9U/видео.html

  • @simonskidmore2998
    @simonskidmore2998 3 года назад +3

    This is a cool video. Not sure I'm brave enough to send $6k on the seas of the internet to China, but glad to see it worked out for old mate.

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад

      I hear you dude.

  • @sonnyhart1128
    @sonnyhart1128 3 года назад

    Love your set up so much I built almost the same keg. First run at expected 15% bout 2 gallon. Ran perfect but at 2 gallon it was still at 60%... Thanks and be safe

  • @icommandoi145
    @icommandoi145 Год назад +2

    WOW from a 25L pot still to a monster, definitely invested in it now. Still looks great! Any recommendations to upgrade from a T500 without breaking the bank?

  • @stillfrugal6824
    @stillfrugal6824 2 года назад

    Very creative, condenser water, cooling device. Maybe over kill with the pump but awesome set up.

  • @lloydlucas6719
    @lloydlucas6719 3 года назад +4

    Hey Jesse and James, I'm hoping you guys could do a video on how to run something like this. I've had thoughts on getting something like this as my mate from lazy dayz brewing has a bubble plate setup from oakstills also and it's a real good quality setup. Thanks for the video guys

  • @DNA_Catfishing
    @DNA_Catfishing 3 года назад +1

    That is a very nice still guys.

  • @JavierMedinaImagery
    @JavierMedinaImagery 3 года назад +1

    Sweet unboxing video!

  • @whiskyfox7943
    @whiskyfox7943 3 года назад +2

    I just met with the people who made these last mouth.
    Copper workers are paid extremely well in China ( compared to others )
    Some of the factory are starting produce high quality still.
    Most of their order came from the EU / Taiwan
    (Whisky distilling just isn't a thing in mainland China and Baijiu still don't use copper)
    So shit products will get them no where.

  • @billb89
    @billb89 26 дней назад

    I’m new to distilling, I’m about to find out if my Chinese still is worth it. Either way, I think it’s a good place to start. If it turns out well I think my next move will be a copper still 10 gallon or so.

  • @JonathanMacKenzie-k7i
    @JonathanMacKenzie-k7i 9 месяцев назад +1

    Hey! I'm a bit curious how this has held up

  • @ukrainewarroom
    @ukrainewarroom 3 года назад

    3 days is bonkers... for NZ. You can order from Amazon in other countries and it turn up later the same day. Now THAT blows my mind.

  • @janeteholmes
    @janeteholmes 3 года назад

    Wow, that all looks phenomenal!

  • @TheSinfuljustice
    @TheSinfuljustice 3 года назад +2

    Got close to the exact same still. (50 gallon pot (not jacketed), 4 bubble plates, deflag, gin basket) The biggest concern i've had with my purchase is the electronics from china. For lack of a better way to describe what happened to me, the control panel caught on fire basically. I'm an industrial electrician by trade and I'm going to attribute the major problem to a herts issue. Here in North America we run on 60 hertz and everything I got was 50 hertz. That and the quality just wasn't there at all. Bear in mind this was purchased 5 years ago. Since then I've modified my pot, I run on duel energies. For those of you who are fans of the show moonshiners, I had a 4inch stainless tube inserted through the bottom of the still. Exactly like mark and digger use with a Venturi burner that sits inside. ALSO a high density 3000W element with voltage controller. Starting my run I use both mean for heat up and eventually turn the gas way down and control my run with my element, depending for what i'm going for. But like all things in life, slow and steady wins the race.

  • @andyread4332
    @andyread4332 3 года назад +2

    I recently bought some parts for my still from Siberia. Doctor Gradus International. Very good to deal with and great engineering.

    • @DoctorGradusInternational
      @DoctorGradusInternational 3 года назад

      😉

    • @henrykrinkle1576
      @henrykrinkle1576 3 года назад

      @@DoctorGradusInternational I've been watching your RUclips vids and they are very good. If I need any more stilling equipment I will order from you.

    • @DoctorGradusInternational
      @DoctorGradusInternational 3 года назад

      @@henrykrinkle1576 Thank you sir, it's pleaser to hear that!

  • @patbloodysabbath8488
    @patbloodysabbath8488 2 года назад

    i retail my version plug and turn key operation for 1500 dollars all you need is the wash for kettle

  • @itsbcook
    @itsbcook 3 года назад +1

    What a great lookin rig!

  • @chegson2wheels686
    @chegson2wheels686 3 года назад +7

    That still is likely bigger than some of our local "craft distilleries" have,I'm not jealous(much)though I reckon the NZ authorities might take some convincing the product he creates are "personal use" lol. I'd not have the space for it,hence why I'm sat waiting for a tiny little still arriving (also from China) I've already got a couple gallons fermenting (banana rum & a sugar wash)& by the time the still arrives I'll probably have set off several more gallons fermenting.

    • @dansarmar1
      @dansarmar1 3 года назад +1

      When making “quality” home spirits the quantity of finished product reduces as you tend to make much tighter cuts. I know with a 50 litre boiler I am continuously frustrated by the time it takes to make multiple stripping runs to get to the spirit run. if he had bought a 200litre boiler I would say customs would be seriously looking at whether it was for “own use”. 100 litre is just a “serious hobby”. Just like buying a 150k boat to catch fish, you can still catch the same fish with a 10k boat...but it’s more fun with the bigger faster boat😄

    • @jttech44
      @jttech44 3 года назад

      @@dansarmar1 Get yourself a 4in column, a big shotgun condenser, and more elements, there's a guy over on homedistiller that's stripping 50L an hour with one. Sugar wash of course, but still, the larger column can flow some serious product compared to the 2in

    • @dansarmar1
      @dansarmar1 3 года назад +1

      @@jttech44 I have a 50litre boiler and 4” column 4200w in elements. Yes next step would be bigger boiler and more power. = 30amp power supply, which I have at my shed, just need the higher rated plugs.

  • @jediknight129
    @jediknight129 2 года назад

    OK this is a place to look at to upgrade to something beyond my electric self contained setup.

  • @andy1982222
    @andy1982222 3 года назад

    I got a column from distillex yet to use as I welded the rest of my still myself I was very impressed for what I paid

  • @MrRedeyedJedi
    @MrRedeyedJedi 3 года назад

    I bought the old type from china. Arrives soon, less complicated set up

  • @bobnewhart4318
    @bobnewhart4318 3 года назад

    Its still cheaper than buying your still in America, but what they don't mention when you purchase is that once your still arrives to customs in America because it's stainless you have to pay 25% customs fees of the total price.

  • @jayslingsby5897
    @jayslingsby5897 2 года назад

    Please make more videos with his still, james was great would be good to see more vids with him

  • @1978garfield
    @1978garfield 3 года назад +1

    Wish any sort of distilling was legal in the US.
    They will never give up the tax revenue sadly.

  • @russellbrown7729
    @russellbrown7729 3 года назад

    The mystery part is for the safety set on the jacket, gauge, vent, relief valve etc

  • @nickcalder-scholes8276
    @nickcalder-scholes8276 3 года назад

    Yes

  • @jacob106106
    @jacob106106 3 года назад

    Great Video. Very well made and i really like that you people from the trades to review!! The video came at the right time... i was thinking of buying one, seems like there is some more planning and banking to do.. ;) cheers thx

  • @kevind7617
    @kevind7617 3 года назад +1

    So what was the extra peice of stainless for?

  • @Reco4511
    @Reco4511 3 года назад

    My still ship next week. My total cost was $ 3,153.00 to my front door . No gin basket but I did get whiskey helmet.

  • @TheGoToGuy33
    @TheGoToGuy33 3 года назад +1

    I could see this video getting a million views. Thanks for posting!

  • @whippyboy6272
    @whippyboy6272 3 года назад +1

    So about 7000 once it's running?

  • @kingseamas
    @kingseamas 3 года назад

    Bought the same still from China but jacketed and $1200. Works great. Except no instructions on the event timer on the control panel. Runs like an out of control freight train. Rainbird

  • @dougshelton69
    @dougshelton69 3 года назад +5

    Did he call electriction a Sparkey??? Cool..🇺🇸❤

    • @expattyNZ
      @expattyNZ 3 года назад +2

      Of course!

    • @StillIt
      @StillIt  3 года назад +1

      Hahaha kiwi thing I guess. We shorten all the trades lol

    • @dougshelton69
      @dougshelton69 3 года назад

      @@StillIt clever....😁

    • @bradmcmahon3156
      @bradmcmahon3156 3 года назад +4

      Also in Australia too. BTW a carpenter is also known as a chippy.

    • @belo2999
      @belo2999 3 года назад +1

      @@bradmcmahon3156 Same in UK for both

  • @kalleklp7291
    @kalleklp7291 3 года назад +1

    Electricians and plumbers can be bribed with some of the product from that still. :)
    Nice piece of equipment. It will serve him well for years to come. :)

  • @andrethompson7552
    @andrethompson7552 3 года назад

    Welding steinless, you have to purch the inside with argon otherwise it will make a coniflower on the inside