Long-time listener, first time caller. CH, started brewing again about 2 months ago after a 7 or 8 year hiatus. Upgraded from partial mash to biab, and from 5-gallon batches in the kitchen to 10-gallon batches in the garage. I’ve been re-energized to get back into it mostly due to your videos (and a couple others, Trent’s channel is great too). You keep it light and fun, and like you, I’m DIYing everything I can. Much appreciated sir. And thanks for turning me on to Kveik - it’s a game-changer. I’m up here in Nova Scotia, just built a little hot fermentation chamber with an Inkbird with scrap lumber for under $100, and I just finished fermenting a pseudo-lager at 98f in 40 hours. I’ve made 4 batches so far, and it’s fcking dynamite with no off-flavours that I can discern! Keep the videos coming bud.
Bought the Vevor system 2 weeks ago. 2 brews in and I have no complaints. Easy to use built in pump and recirculating arm. For a 110 system it gets my 65 degree tap water to mash temps in 20-25 minutes. After sparge it gets to a light rolling boil in 25-30 minutes. All for $269.99 plus shipping.
I've had mine over a year and is the only system I've used. It's easy enough for me to use so anyone could use it. My beer keeps coming out with lower OG and FG but I'm thinking that's on me...
I have the Vevor system and love the ease, the control (at an affordable price), and consistently good tasting beer. Great introductory 20 Liter system.
Great video. I got a Vevor system because, money. I spent all my extra cash on building my keggle system. I watched a couple of dozen videos on the expensive ones and they are nice and shiny. The Vevor does everything I need it to do. Does it heat the water to mash in temperature? Check. Does it keep it at that temperature? Check. Does it recirculate the wort? Check. Does it boil the wort? Check. Can you use the built in pump to transfer to the fermentation vessel? Check. Haven't tried programing it to automatically brew yet. Why? Because there's no fun in that. Did spend the money I saved on grains, hops, and yeast though.
I have the Vevor. It's not as bells & whistles, perhaps; that said, it has the recirc pump & arm, auto & manual mode, adjustable power (500-1800 watts), all the stuff the bigger boys have. It works, works just fine. I'm happy I spent under $300 for this machine, that does exactly what Brewzilla and grainfather do at a much higher price point.
Good to see you back brewing again. I have the Anvil 240v 10.5 gal system and its a great value.Perfect for brewing 5 gallon batches.New one has a removable bottom on the grain basket which makes cleaning a breeze.Get the pump and chiller addition if you buy this system If I had the $$$$ I would have gotten the Clawhammer system,also excellent.
Solid Vid! Not sure how much a Brewzilla is in the US but its by far one of the most popular electric systems in Australia, its relatively cheap and is aweseome.
The VEVOR system is simply a rebranded Hopcat, Brew Monk, Brew Devil. I own one here in Kenya and it's pretty much the equivalent of a Brewzilla, though I'd say the Brewzilla is a bit more intuitive. So yeah, it works just fine, and $300 is the going rate for those types of systems. If I was in the US though I wouldn't buy one, but overseas it is about the only thing you can find affordably.
How is the fermentation going for you in Kenya. I live in Zanzibar where it's permanent 30 degrees C. I am planning to start home brewing but I'm afraid it's a bit too hot. I just bought Vevor, which means I will need to do the fermentation in a separate bucket, but I don't have a room where I could keep cool temperature all the time. I was planning to make IPA, ales and Belgians.
@@pawel4636I lived in Nairobi so the temperature was moderate. I was able to ferment any time of the year. 30c is really high so you’ll be getting some odd esters from most yeasts at those temps. It sounds like you need Kveik. It can ferment at those kind of temperatures without the off flavors. Alternatively, buy a fridge or freezer and make it your fermentation chamber. You’ll need temperature control (inkbird would do if you can import it or pick it up if you leave the country). With temp control, you could ferment at any temp. I’m not sure what you have available there, but you could also make a swamp box if you have access to a cooling system of some sort. If you have A/C, you can just ferment in your home. The most cost effective would be to get some Kveik yeast and try that. Some Belgian yeasts can handle those temps can handle higher temps, but if it’s 30c you’re looking at fermentation temps of 35-38c. That’s too high for Belgian yeasts. Kveik can handle that though. Hope this all helps.
@@JoshuaHargrave Thanks a lot. I've been reading about Kveik yeast. And indeed, it looks like this is exactly what I need. One more question to which I couldn't find an answer. If we take, say, Vevor 35l, can I brew half the pot only, or 2/3? 30l of beer may be too much in the beginning, especially that I'll be learning this craft. I was wondering if there is a minimum of wort that Vevor can brew, to start with smaller quantities
@@JoshuaHargrave Thanks, that would work perfectly. Not sure where I read it someone saying that because the sieve (that small basket) doesn't reach the bottom you can't brew small quantities. But if I can do 20l it is perfect for now. Thanks for all the info!
Of all the single vessel system I have brewed on and/or owned, nothing comes close to my Brewtools B80. It will last all of my brewing career, every part is exchangeable, it’s modular, premium quality and just works every time. It does not make me a better brewer, but it makes me a happier brewer:)
I will say that I really enjoy brewing 2.5 gallon batches BIAB on my stovetop. No pumps, no re-circulation, no plate chillers to clean, no electronics, nothing heavy to carry...just basically a 5 gallon pot, bag and an immersion chiller. (Okay, I do have a ferm chamber and kegerator and other equipment around.) I also brew 5 and 10 gallon batches, and those feel more like work...but do produce 2x to 4x the beer. The Clawhammer seems like a decent budget level modular system, but if I went electric I would likely spend half the money and get an Anvil Foundry that can be used on both 120V and 240V. Clawhammer does not have that flexibility, and the 240V Clawhammer is $1,600. But there are a lot of great systems out there these days, for a variety of needs and budgets. Keep brewing!
I have the vevor its great, makes 6 gallon batches with ease, heating coil is interior, pump built in but easy to clean, ithink the grain limit is 17 pounds or maybe 19, I forget I had to move after I got it, the voltage is adjustable also, all you gotta do is find out how many amps the circuit breaker has. 30 amps means you can run it at 1800 watts
So entertaining. The insert at 2:41 had me laughing and giggling. ha ha. Back to the show. So funny. Thank also, because I have watched a lot of channels on beermaking and you guys bring it together like BOOM! Super insightful video, and due to the comment stream you initiated about VEVOR I am going with that. Thanks so much!
CH I found your channel a few weeks ago, watched a ton of videos since, learned a brajton and am going to have my first ever brew day up here in NH in the next week or so... still sorting out how I'm going to keep my ale yeast happy in this already cold weather (NH) since I'm still in the $150 braj category just wanted to say you're still reaching the noobs like me and i've found your channel both entertaining and inspiring... so thank you!!!
Love your work, I only brew 5L to 9L batches (breaks out calculator, 1.3 to 2.3 gallon) but still havent found a good small electric system in Australia yet so still doing propane BIAB.
You can do small batches on the kegland systems. I have the 3.1 version with the overflow pipe removed. I do 8L batches all the time. Apparently the 4.0 version is even better for small batches because the malt pipe sits lower in the kettle.
I have a system that seems similar to the Vevor one. The main recurring issue I have with it is that the pump can get clogged by hop gunk or similar during the boil. Makes it a bit harder to transfer to the fermentation vessel. Luckily there is the faucet on it as a backup.
Getting back into brewing after stepping away for a few years, and the landscape is almost unrecognizable. I"ve been enjoying your vids, thanks for all the tips, especially around buyer's remorse.
The main advantage to the Grainfather system is the ability to create a recipe and just brew it without needing to set timers or mess with valves, start pumps, create a brew-day checklist or hit buttons to change the temperature manually. The app also allows you to monitor temperatures and timers from another room if you need to step out. The brew delay/pre-heat timer is nice too. None of these things are somthing you can't really live without, but it definitely makes for a seamless, convent process/ brew-day. Honestly, I'm not sure why more brew hardware manufacturers don't integrate a similar concept/structure. It seems like an obvious next step in the evolution of homebrewing.
DDDDDUUUUUDDDDEEEE YOU are fCkN hilarious from the get go of this video, I was laughing my ass off. I am down to have a beer with you or work with you on you next brewery system !!!
That panda smashing shit and having a wife point a gun at Lioatta (RIP) nailed IT HAHA. I was planning to turn my garage into a home brewery , so if you got pointers or sites/vids I can check out , please let me know or how can holla/reach you ? cheers bro
I just recently downsized to 2.5 gallon batches myself. I seem to be the only one drinking it anymore and I can brew more often and keep the styles changing more often with smaller batches. I went with the Anvil Foundry 6.5.
Awesome video man, I brew on an anvil system and I think its awesome. Definitely a step up from the cooler brew days on my old propane system. XUL makes some good beer! Funny I'm watching this while wearing one of their shirts, can't wait to get back down there to get more of their beer when we go on another lake trip next year!
I'm still completely manual. Mash in a homemade cooler with a bazooka, manual vorlauf. Boil in a 30L kettle with a Lauter Helix. Cooling with an immersion chiller or "no chill". The only fancy stuff I have is a Fermzilla All Rounder so I can spund. That was a great investion and also allows me to easily make oxygen free transfers to a keg.
Small 2.5 gallon batches on the Brewzilla then ferment with a plastic 3 gallon Fermonster. Great way to try stuff that you don’t want tons of. I love the 2.5 gallon kegs too because i can stack em in the keezer.
I wonder if I could use the anvil foundry grain basket in a large kettle on the stove top. I wish they just made metal grain baskets that would fit kettles so you could do this right in your kitchen without having to buy a full system. I think we just created a new product CH
Great channel! I appreciate your style of videos, sharing some knowledge, and having fun. I like all the pros of your claw hammer system but CH, Hans, Bubbe, do us a solid and show everyone how to replicate a clawhammer system on the cheap. I have to imagine a $1K system is not in the price range for most of your viewers. Think Chrisfix, show the cool stuff but then fix the car in the driveway with basic tools. Break out the knockout punch and go over no weld bulkheads for tri-clamps. Show the different heating element options, especially 120V options, and run multiple 120V elements on separate circuits to get a faster boil. They make heating elements with tri-clamp fittings and twist locks making it super simple to clean the pot. Make an SCR to control the temp with a dimmer switch or an inkbird controller. Show people how to reuse what they have and add a few minor things to level up. I love the no-chill video, add in a cut to that so people see they don’t need a chill plate, let it cool and ferment in your corny keg. Do you really need a pump? How much efficiency do you gain? Is it worth the cost? Show the sexy blonde supermodel but don't forget fat bottomed girls make the rock’n world go round.
Live in Mass and have a Mash & Boil. The main thing I don’t like about it is you need an external sparge water heater. What I started doing was just mashing in my cooler again. The M&B is my HLT, I mash in the cooler, fly sparge into a plastic bucket, then boil in the M&B. Nice thing about this setup is I can fit 24-25lbs in the cooler, so I can brew almost anything I want.
I have the Vevor system and it is actually just fine. As with any single bottom thermometer system keep an eye on your temps. I use a 2nd thermometer towards the top of the wort and adjust accordingly. But really for the money I think it's a pretty great system.
I've been doing 1 gallon BIAB batches in a Gigawort for the last few months and love brewing that way. I'm considering the smaller Anvil Foundry so I can scale up a bit, but you can't beat small batches for experimentation and increasing frequency of brewing. Thanks for the video!
I did the same with the Gigawort for a while, but small batches go so fast and I couldn’t get the hop rate because I didn’t want partial packets left. In hindsight I should have just gotten a vacuum sealer.
@@abela6925 Yep, vacuum sealer is helpful, and I've started tracking my inventory in Brewfather so I can see what bits of stuff I have laying around. Definitely helps cut down on the potential waste from doing small batches.
I’m with you man, I burnt out my Grainfather twice. I really wanted to buy a Clawhammer since I love those guys but I couldn’t justify spending 3X the price. Love my Anvil now
I have a big 3 vessel system and its been ok to me. Refitted maple syrup drums as kettles. But I also have the Grainfather S40. No Bluetooth or bells and whistles. But costed me all of 440 dollars, taxes included. Canadian. If it blows up in a year or two, ill see again. So far,so good.
Every time I brew on my Anvil, I wonder if I made a mistake. I am an experienced brewer and I wish that I spent a bit more money on the Claw Hammer system or similar. My biggest complaint and the reason for some of my f-bombs is the temperature probe in the Anvil. I know that there is a 3-degree adjustment on these, but I find mine to sometimes be off by 7 degrees and once by 50. I am not trying to complain about the Anvil, but I am trying to provide others additional information as they decide what to buy.
I've been using the Anvil Foundry with Recirc pump and Arm. I've made a few modifications like have it on a dolly and ditched the top grate in lieu of a plastic sparge nozzle. I'm also running it at 220v and use a Brew Bag for the grist. Having done No-Sparge for years, the jump to an All-In-One was pretty much seamless. I almost always double -batch and have at least 45 batches through it since 2021. For the price point and simplicity, the Anvil exceeds the value IMHO
I've had the Mash&Boil for 7 years ( no pump) temp is always a little off but I have brewed over 75 brews with no problem ( except pilot error 😭 ) As of 10/28/24 the Vevor unit with pump is $207 on Amazon. Very tempting. Keep up the videos they are much appreciated and enjoyed.
I just stumbled on your channel because I've been wanting to get back into homebrewing recently after about 6 year hiatus. You totally sold me on the Clawhammer system. I rocked the 3 tier cooler/Blichmann kettle system for ages in the past and it was such a pain. With the harsh Canadian winters the Clawhammer will be perfect. Looks like my old system in the garage will continue to collect dust. Looking forward to watching more of your videos! 🤘
I have a M&B that I primarily brew on in the winter months here in Upper Michigan & never had an issue w/it. And I still use the cooler brewing method w/propane in the warmer months. Love both systems, it doesn’t matter what you use clean up always sucks! 🤘
I came back to homebrewing after a few year break, dusted off the clawhammer 120v, everything still worked and all I had to replace was an O ring on the element.
Living in east tn as well, its hard to go through a 5 gallons of beer by myself. I do belong to a couple of home brew clubs. But, there I can only get rid of a 1/2 gallon or so. I currently do about 3 gallon or less now. I have considered the anvil foundry for some time. I may get it this year.
I have the vevor system one problem whit it if you use the grain basket you need make ad least 15 liter end you need to buy some hozes. but works great end get good sg out of it. (Mostly make belgain stile beer) Not to forget ezy clining
Dope video, bro! I've been using the Claw Hammer systems for years and absolutely love them! So easy to use and clean. the 240V big one is a freaking game changer!
I use the vevor system and it seems to work fairly well. You do have to check on your temps though its about 6-8 degrees off. But everything else is fairly straight forward.
If my Anvil ever breaks ill fork the cash for the clawhammer. WTBS Having the option to conveniently switch back to 120v is clutch if you move around a lot.
Good video with some great info from years of brewing. When I get some extra cash I'd love to get one of those Claw Hammer setups. For now I am forced to stick with "propane, propane, let's light that flame" and my kettle. I pretty much brew for parties and myself these days so 5 gallon batches tend to last a while, which I'm not complaining about. Now that winter is around the corner I'm getting ready for a lager. I've been wanting to get one of those done for a while now.
I noticed you didn't mention the Brewzilla. I'm taking a hard look at that one as well. I love the clawhammer, too, though. Tough call for me on which to get.
I have the Anvil 10.5 and its a little clunky cause the grain basket kinda sucks so seeing that Clawhammer steel mesh basket makes me jealous. I don't have too many friends that drink, but I run two 3-gal kegs in the like $100 tiny chest freezer i converted to a keezer and one of those kegs will last me about a month or two. Beer or two a day-ish + the occasional friend/wife pint.
VEVOR system is simply a rebranded Hopcat, Brew Monk, Brew Devil ,Guten, i have had one 8 years , it makes good beer , insulate it and when unto mash temperature turn down to 500 or it will over shoot
I've been brewing on the Klarstein equivalent of the Brewer's Edge system, the temp control is a little janky but it's been working great for me, I can't complain for sub £200. I'm looking at replacing the electronics to something with WiFi and PID control eventually but it hasn't annoyed me enough to bother yet.
One vessel to rule them all braj... always glad when you post. The Anvil Foundry has been TOUGH to beat. I even ferment in my anvil, post brew, and it turns out killer every time.
Yea man 100%. I stopped for a while because it was so much work brewing out back with propane. Electric in the house is my next move. Hot side enhancements make brewing easier but cold side imho is still more important
I bought a used BrewTools b40 and I have to say- there is something to these overly expensive systems. I now use my mash and boil for sparging and it’s crazy the difference in technology. If you’re ever in Chicago and want to test it for fun let me know. 🍻
I've already sunk a ton into my 3-vessel keggle system, so I'll be sticking with it for a while, but man I do covet the Clawhammer system. I do like pretending I'm a professional brewer, though.
Noooo on the Kveik overpitch. For a 5 gal batch at 90 deg pitch, 2 grams, ta da. I just saved you 32 dollars. One packet for 5 brews! Brulusophy did it and said it worked. I've done it 10 times now. Love it in summer yolo freewill temp ctrl.
Man, ive never felt so indy as i do right now, getting into biab about 8 years before it was cool. I get about 83% mash efficiency (milling my own grain) - i have NEVER understood the mashtun recerc hassle just to save $1.02 in grain and bragging rights that you hit 90%+ eff. You can keep that title im good. Grwat vid going through all the various systems, i enjoyed it.
Neither. Seen many all in ones, including GFs, get defects just outside of warranty. So I opted for a 35ltr triclamped elec element system, and separate pump ect.. Will cost 30% more in total, but I can upgrade over time, and replace singular parts with ease if they break.
Batch size was the motivation for the larger systems in my case. 5 gallons of beer is 2 cases. Given those numbers I started from that baseline and built on that schedule to create a a uniform timeline for consistency. I used to brew every two weeks for multiple reasons and the result would be 2 cases of beer at minimum, but usually 4 cases of beer was an easy upgrade. Brewing 10 gallons takes no more time than brewing 5. I have 4 brothers in law and other family that will help should I not be emptying the kegs or bottles in a timely manner. Cheers.
Summer of 1970 I didn't buy any brew equipment other than a nice bottle capper I had gotten for 16 dollars.It was top of the line. At 14 I was always trying to think a head. I used all mom's stuff from the kitchen. She didn't mind she drank all the beer. If it makes you happy but it. 7,000 system to a 100 dollar one.
Love your video. I do own a Crafthardware system that is similar to your Clawhammer one, but I sunk waaaaayy to much money in Tri-Clamp accessories. I love to be able to not switch a single hose on brew day and just control everything with my valves... But regarding the high price systems, I do love systems such the Speidel Braumeister or the Brumas Braueule. Especially the Braumeister with its compact size, the ability to replace parts and the way the system works is quite intriguing. But not the price.
Just got a Vevor a few months back. I do BIAB without the overflow tube in. Works great so far! Temps are correct. Recirc pump works well. Can't complain for the price.
@@ReneUhlver my next step was continuing with kits, but more fermentation capacity. For like 3 more batches. Then i got myself a food safe bucket, a boiler for mulled wine, to cook in and the absolut best investment, a monster bottle cleaner. Cuts the effort for bottling into halv, if you dont get yourself a mini keg. Recently i upgraded to a vevor and it is amazing. Dirt cheap and it gets the job done
Long-time listener, first time caller.
CH, started brewing again about 2 months ago after a 7 or 8 year hiatus. Upgraded from partial mash to biab, and from 5-gallon batches in the kitchen to 10-gallon batches in the garage. I’ve been re-energized to get back into it mostly due to your videos (and a couple others, Trent’s channel is great too). You keep it light and fun, and like you, I’m DIYing everything I can. Much appreciated sir.
And thanks for turning me on to Kveik - it’s a game-changer. I’m up here in Nova Scotia, just built a little hot fermentation chamber with an Inkbird with scrap lumber for under $100, and I just finished fermenting a pseudo-lager at 98f in 40 hours. I’ve made 4 batches so far, and it’s fcking dynamite with no off-flavours that I can discern! Keep the videos coming bud.
Tell Party time James I said what up there in Nova Scotia, cheers!
Bought the Vevor system 2 weeks ago. 2 brews in and I have no complaints. Easy to use built in pump and recirculating arm. For a 110 system it gets my 65 degree tap water to mash temps in 20-25 minutes. After sparge it gets to a light rolling boil in 25-30 minutes. All for $269.99 plus shipping.
Me too, I’m very satisfied with vevor system
I just ordered one yesterday. Can't wait did it to get here!
I've had mine over a year and is the only system I've used. It's easy enough for me to use so anyone could use it. My beer keeps coming out with lower OG and FG but I'm thinking that's on me...
I have the Vevor system and love the ease, the control (at an affordable price), and consistently good tasting beer. Great introductory 20 Liter system.
Why would you have any complaints after two weeks? You didn't taste anything yet.
Great video. I got a Vevor system because, money. I spent all my extra cash on building my keggle system. I watched a couple of dozen videos on the expensive ones and they are nice and shiny. The Vevor does everything I need it to do. Does it heat the water to mash in temperature? Check. Does it keep it at that temperature? Check. Does it recirculate the wort? Check. Does it boil the wort? Check. Can you use the built in pump to transfer to the fermentation vessel? Check. Haven't tried programing it to automatically brew yet. Why? Because there's no fun in that. Did spend the money I saved on grains, hops, and yeast though.
Good looking out TT!
I have the Vevor. It's not as bells & whistles, perhaps; that said, it has the recirc pump & arm, auto & manual mode, adjustable power (500-1800 watts), all the stuff the bigger boys have. It works, works just fine. I'm happy I spent under $300 for this machine, that does exactly what Brewzilla and grainfather do at a much higher price point.
How does the wort make it to the pump to be recirculated? Is there a hole in the bottom
@@mattfranklin6763 yes sir. A pipe fits into the hole at the bottom to avoid sucking up too much trub, and it pumps the wort up to the recirc arm.
Between this channel and the clawhammer system, I got back into brewing. One year later, I am brewing like its 2016 all over again. Thanks Braj!
3 pennies?? na... love the vids! Thanks!
I'M TAKING THAT $20 AND I'M GONNA DRINK BEERS AND THINK OF YOU TOMORROW TROY, CHEERS BRAJ!
Good to see you back brewing again. I have the Anvil 240v 10.5 gal system and its a great value.Perfect for brewing 5 gallon batches.New one has a removable bottom on the grain basket which makes cleaning a breeze.Get the pump and chiller addition if you buy this system
If I had the $$$$ I would have gotten the Clawhammer system,also excellent.
Solid Vid!
Not sure how much a Brewzilla is in the US but its by far one of the most popular electric systems in Australia, its relatively cheap and is aweseome.
The VEVOR system is simply a rebranded Hopcat, Brew Monk, Brew Devil. I own one here in Kenya and it's pretty much the equivalent of a Brewzilla, though I'd say the Brewzilla is a bit more intuitive. So yeah, it works just fine, and $300 is the going rate for those types of systems. If I was in the US though I wouldn't buy one, but overseas it is about the only thing you can find affordably.
How is the fermentation going for you in Kenya. I live in Zanzibar where it's permanent 30 degrees C. I am planning to start home brewing but I'm afraid it's a bit too hot. I just bought Vevor, which means I will need to do the fermentation in a separate bucket, but I don't have a room where I could keep cool temperature all the time. I was planning to make IPA, ales and Belgians.
@@pawel4636I lived in Nairobi so the temperature was moderate. I was able to ferment any time of the year. 30c is really high so you’ll be getting some odd esters from most yeasts at those temps. It sounds like you need Kveik. It can ferment at those kind of temperatures without the off flavors. Alternatively, buy a fridge or freezer and make it your fermentation chamber. You’ll need temperature control (inkbird would do if you can import it or pick it up if you leave the country). With temp control, you could ferment at any temp. I’m not sure what you have available there, but you could also make a swamp box if you have access to a cooling system of some sort. If you have A/C, you can just ferment in your home.
The most cost effective would be to get some Kveik yeast and try that. Some Belgian yeasts can handle those temps can handle higher temps, but if it’s 30c you’re looking at fermentation temps of 35-38c. That’s too high for Belgian yeasts. Kveik can handle that though. Hope this all helps.
@@JoshuaHargrave Thanks a lot. I've been reading about Kveik yeast. And indeed, it looks like this is exactly what I need.
One more question to which I couldn't find an answer. If we take, say, Vevor 35l, can I brew half the pot only, or 2/3? 30l of beer may be too much in the beginning, especially that I'll be learning this craft. I was wondering if there is a minimum of wort that Vevor can brew, to start with smaller quantities
@pawel4636 I think you could safely do a half batch (18l). That would net you about 12l of beer. I wouldn’t do any less than 18l. Have fun!
@@JoshuaHargrave Thanks, that would work perfectly. Not sure where I read it someone saying that because the sieve (that small basket) doesn't reach the bottom you can't brew small quantities. But if I can do 20l it is perfect for now. Thanks for all the info!
Welcome back Bro ! Of all the home brewing channels on UA-cam, yours is one of the best ! Keep brewing and make more videos !
Cheers braj!
Of all the single vessel system I have brewed on and/or owned, nothing comes close to my Brewtools B80. It will last all of my brewing career, every part is exchangeable, it’s modular, premium quality and just works every time. It does not make me a better brewer, but it makes me a happier brewer:)
One vessel to rule them all!
👑
And in the garage, brew them
I will say that I really enjoy brewing 2.5 gallon batches BIAB on my stovetop. No pumps, no re-circulation, no plate chillers to clean, no electronics, nothing heavy to carry...just basically a 5 gallon pot, bag and an immersion chiller. (Okay, I do have a ferm chamber and kegerator and other equipment around.) I also brew 5 and 10 gallon batches, and those feel more like work...but do produce 2x to 4x the beer.
The Clawhammer seems like a decent budget level modular system, but if I went electric I would likely spend half the money and get an Anvil Foundry that can be used on both 120V and 240V. Clawhammer does not have that flexibility, and the 240V Clawhammer is $1,600. But there are a lot of great systems out there these days, for a variety of needs and budgets. Keep brewing!
I have the vevor its great, makes 6 gallon batches with ease, heating coil is interior, pump built in but easy to clean, ithink the grain limit is 17 pounds or maybe 19, I forget I had to move after I got it, the voltage is adjustable also, all you gotta do is find out how many amps the circuit breaker has. 30 amps means you can run it at 1800 watts
Thats a good story bro! That makes me believe
@@HOMEBREW4LIFE i intend to create a video review for it eventually
17.8 lbs
How much do we love your content....hum....let us count the ways. Truly, amazing job, CH...2024...let's do this!
So entertaining. The insert at 2:41 had me laughing and giggling. ha ha. Back to the show. So funny. Thank also, because I have watched a lot of channels on beermaking and you guys bring it together like BOOM! Super insightful video, and due to the comment stream you initiated about VEVOR I am going with that. Thanks so much!
CH I found your channel a few weeks ago, watched a ton of videos since, learned a brajton and am going to have my first ever brew day up here in NH in the next week or so... still sorting out how I'm going to keep my ale yeast happy in this already cold weather (NH) since I'm still in the $150 braj category
just wanted to say you're still reaching the noobs like me and i've found your channel both entertaining and inspiring... so thank you!!!
Welcome aboard! Stay warm this winter my braj!
Dude! Finally someone puts a video out with no BS. THANKS MUCH!
Love your work, I only brew 5L to 9L batches (breaks out calculator, 1.3 to 2.3 gallon) but still havent found a good small electric system in Australia yet so still doing propane BIAB.
HOPE LIFE IS TREATING YOU GOOD IN AUS GREG S. THANK YOU FOR THE LOVE CHEERS FROM KNOXVILLE!
You can do small batches on the kegland systems. I have the 3.1 version with the overflow pipe removed. I do 8L batches all the time.
Apparently the 4.0 version is even better for small batches because the malt pipe sits lower in the kettle.
@@mnkybnditI've had my eye on that one, just found a 22L electric system the nano-x sv22 from cheeky peak that I need to find a review of
@@mnkybndithad another look, now that I know it does small batches its gone to my #1 option for a purchase I don't tell my wife about next year.
I have a system that seems similar to the Vevor one. The main recurring issue I have with it is that the pump can get clogged by hop gunk or similar during the boil. Makes it a bit harder to transfer to the fermentation vessel. Luckily there is the faucet on it as a backup.
I made the swap to one kettle. Never been happier! Got me the Claw Hammer 20gal/240v and it has made everything so much better
Getting back into brewing after stepping away for a few years, and the landscape is almost unrecognizable. I"ve been enjoying your vids, thanks for all the tips, especially around buyer's remorse.
Cheers, glad I could help! 🍻
The main advantage to the Grainfather system is the ability to create a recipe and just brew it without needing to set timers or mess with valves, start pumps, create a brew-day checklist or hit buttons to change the temperature manually. The app also allows you to monitor temperatures and timers from another room if you need to step out. The brew delay/pre-heat timer is nice too. None of these things are somthing you can't really live without, but it definitely makes for a seamless, convent process/ brew-day. Honestly, I'm not sure why more brew hardware manufacturers don't integrate a similar concept/structure. It seems like an obvious next step in the evolution of homebrewing.
DDDDDUUUUUDDDDEEEE YOU are fCkN hilarious from the get go of this video, I was laughing my ass off. I am down to have a beer with you or work with you on you next brewery system !!!
That panda smashing shit and having a wife point a gun at Lioatta (RIP) nailed IT HAHA. I was planning to turn my garage into a home brewery , so if you got pointers or sites/vids I can check out , please let me know or how can holla/reach you ? cheers bro
I just recently downsized to 2.5 gallon batches myself. I seem to be the only one drinking it anymore and I can brew more often and keep the styles changing more often with smaller batches. I went with the Anvil Foundry 6.5.
Agreed on the clawhammer system. Been on it for about 4 years now and it’s fantastic. So easy to just replace parts if they break.
Awesome video man, I brew on an anvil system and I think its awesome. Definitely a step up from the cooler brew days on my old propane system. XUL makes some good beer! Funny I'm watching this while wearing one of their shirts, can't wait to get back down there to get more of their beer when we go on another lake trip next year!
Chea braj!
I brew 3 gallon BIAB batches on my gas stove. I may get an Anvil Foudry 6.5. Black Friday sale! Thanks CH! Cheers!
I'm still completely manual. Mash in a homemade cooler with a bazooka, manual vorlauf. Boil in a 30L kettle with a Lauter Helix. Cooling with an immersion chiller or "no chill". The only fancy stuff I have is a Fermzilla All Rounder so I can spund. That was a great investion and also allows me to easily make oxygen free transfers to a keg.
You missed the Digiboil system whichbis cheaper than anvil and works great. I have had it for 5 years with no problem.
Small 2.5 gallon batches on the Brewzilla then ferment with a plastic 3 gallon Fermonster. Great way to try stuff that you don’t want tons of. I love the 2.5 gallon kegs too because i can stack em in the keezer.
I wonder if I could use the anvil foundry grain basket in a large kettle on the stove top. I wish they just made metal grain baskets that would fit kettles so you could do this right in your kitchen without having to buy a full system. I think we just created a new product CH
Great channel! I appreciate your style of videos, sharing some knowledge, and having fun. I like all the pros of your claw hammer system but CH, Hans, Bubbe, do us a solid and show everyone how to replicate a clawhammer system on the cheap. I have to imagine a $1K system is not in the price range for most of your viewers. Think Chrisfix, show the cool stuff but then fix the car in the driveway with basic tools. Break out the knockout punch and go over no weld bulkheads for tri-clamps. Show the different heating element options, especially 120V options, and run multiple 120V elements on separate circuits to get a faster boil. They make heating elements with tri-clamp fittings and twist locks making it super simple to clean the pot. Make an SCR to control the temp with a dimmer switch or an inkbird controller. Show people how to reuse what they have and add a few minor things to level up. I love the no-chill video, add in a cut to that so people see they don’t need a chill plate, let it cool and ferment in your corny keg. Do you really need a pump? How much efficiency do you gain? Is it worth the cost? Show the sexy blonde supermodel but don't forget fat bottomed girls make the rock’n world go round.
Just got the 20gal clawhammer system and never looking back with 2 13.2 gal kegmenter. Thanks for all your great advice and sharing your knowledge!
Live in Mass and have a Mash & Boil. The main thing I don’t like about it is you need an external sparge water heater.
What I started doing was just mashing in my cooler again. The M&B is my HLT, I mash in the cooler, fly sparge into a plastic bucket, then boil in the M&B. Nice thing about this setup is I can fit 24-25lbs in the cooler, so I can brew almost anything I want.
I have the Vevor system and it is actually just fine. As with any single bottom thermometer system keep an eye on your temps. I use a 2nd thermometer towards the top of the wort and adjust accordingly. But really for the money I think it's a pretty great system.
I've been doing 1 gallon BIAB batches in a Gigawort for the last few months and love brewing that way. I'm considering the smaller Anvil Foundry so I can scale up a bit, but you can't beat small batches for experimentation and increasing frequency of brewing. Thanks for the video!
Im with it!
I did the same with the Gigawort for a while, but small batches go so fast and I couldn’t get the hop rate because I didn’t want partial packets left. In hindsight I should have just gotten a vacuum sealer.
@@abela6925 Yep, vacuum sealer is helpful, and I've started tracking my inventory in Brewfather so I can see what bits of stuff I have laying around. Definitely helps cut down on the potential waste from doing small batches.
Thanks Man! I needed your help..
I’m with you man, I burnt out my Grainfather twice. I really wanted to buy a Clawhammer since I love those guys but I couldn’t justify spending 3X the price. Love my Anvil now
Always good to see a video from you man, hope you're still enjoying TN... I gotta get me one of the Clawhammer systems!
Cheers Coop!
I have a big 3 vessel system and its been ok to me. Refitted maple syrup drums as kettles.
But I also have the Grainfather S40. No Bluetooth or bells and whistles. But costed me all of 440 dollars, taxes included. Canadian. If it blows up in a year or two, ill see again. So far,so good.
Every time I brew on my Anvil, I wonder if I made a mistake. I am an experienced brewer and I wish that I spent a bit more money on the Claw Hammer system or similar. My biggest complaint and the reason for some of my f-bombs is the temperature probe in the Anvil. I know that there is a 3-degree adjustment on these, but I find mine to sometimes be off by 7 degrees and once by 50. I am not trying to complain about the Anvil, but I am trying to provide others additional information as they decide what to buy.
I've been using the Anvil Foundry with Recirc pump and Arm. I've made a few modifications like have it on a dolly and ditched the top grate in lieu of a plastic sparge nozzle. I'm also running it at 220v and use a Brew Bag for the grist. Having done No-Sparge for years, the jump to an All-In-One was pretty much seamless. I almost always double -batch and have at least 45 batches through it since 2021. For the price point and simplicity, the Anvil exceeds the value IMHO
I've had the Mash&Boil for 7 years ( no pump) temp is always a little off but I have brewed over 75 brews with no problem ( except pilot error 😭 ) As of 10/28/24 the Vevor unit with pump is $207 on Amazon. Very tempting. Keep up the videos they are much appreciated and enjoyed.
I just stumbled on your channel because I've been wanting to get back into homebrewing recently after about 6 year hiatus. You totally sold me on the Clawhammer system. I rocked the 3 tier cooler/Blichmann kettle system for ages in the past and it was such a pain. With the harsh Canadian winters the Clawhammer will be perfect.
Looks like my old system in the garage will continue to collect dust.
Looking forward to watching more of your videos! 🤘
Welcome aboard!
Damn my Braj. I was at Xul kill the lights and thought it would be cool if I ran into you. Had a great time, great beer city.
I just brewed on the Vevor system. I think it’s pretty awesome for
I got the cheap S40 Grainfather and love it, made about 300 gallons on it so far. I can't stand connecting my phone to stuff like the expensive units.
I have a M&B that I primarily brew on in the winter months here in Upper Michigan & never had an issue w/it. And I still use the cooler brewing method w/propane in the warmer months. Love both systems, it doesn’t matter what you use clean up always sucks! 🤘
Living in Michigan is a huge selling point for electric brewing. Like why would I ever fool around with propane.
I came back to homebrewing after a few year break, dusted off the clawhammer 120v, everything still worked and all I had to replace was an O ring on the element.
Great Video, CH! Keep 'em coming!
Legit bro, this video is what I needed. I am in the market for a system, and had no idea what the heck to get. Thank you for simplifying the BS.
Living in east tn as well, its hard to go through a 5 gallons of beer by myself. I do belong to a couple of home brew clubs. But, there I can only get rid of a 1/2 gallon or so. I currently do about 3 gallon or less now. I have considered the anvil foundry for some time. I may get it this year.
I have the vevor system one problem whit it if you use the grain basket you need make ad least 15 liter end you need to buy some hozes. but works great end get good sg out of it. (Mostly make belgain stile beer) Not to forget ezy clining
Keep going man, this stuff is informative, entertaining, and awesome! Appreciate ya !
Nice summary. But I would get a big plate chiller. I have the bigger Blichmann and it kick a##.
Great to see you back in the saddle CH. Always chill and the master Braj
The pump on my Grainfather did go out. I just bought another one and now it's working fine
I have both the Foundry and Clawhammer systems, and you can't go wrong with either. Glad to see you back and brewing, Braj!
I love it!
Hey, which of these do you like better? The Anvil or Clawhammer? Thanks.
Dope video, bro! I've been using the Claw Hammer systems for years and absolutely love them! So easy to use and clean. the 240V big one is a freaking game changer!
I use the vevor system and it seems to work fairly well. You do have to check on your temps though its about 6-8 degrees off. But everything else is fairly straight forward.
If my Anvil ever breaks ill fork the cash for the clawhammer. WTBS Having the option to conveniently switch back to 120v is clutch if you move around a lot.
I’ve used the vevor. Honestly not bad. Under 500 they are pretty much all the same.
I still like my clawhammer 10gallon have about 65brews on it so far no issues besides a pump failure. They replaced no charge
BIAB brewing on propane ain't bad, though temperature control during the mash can be a bit wonky.
Good video with some great info from years of brewing. When I get some extra cash I'd love to get one of those Claw Hammer setups. For now I am forced to stick with "propane, propane, let's light that flame" and my kettle. I pretty much brew for parties and myself these days so 5 gallon batches tend to last a while, which I'm not complaining about. Now that winter is around the corner I'm getting ready for a lager. I've been wanting to get one of those done for a while now.
I noticed you didn't mention the Brewzilla. I'm taking a hard look at that one as well. I love the clawhammer, too, though. Tough call for me on which to get.
I have the Anvil 10.5 and its a little clunky cause the grain basket kinda sucks so seeing that Clawhammer steel mesh basket makes me jealous. I don't have too many friends that drink, but I run two 3-gal kegs in the like $100 tiny chest freezer i converted to a keezer and one of those kegs will last me about a month or two. Beer or two a day-ish + the occasional friend/wife pint.
VEVOR system is simply a rebranded Hopcat, Brew Monk, Brew Devil ,Guten, i have had one 8 years , it makes good beer , insulate it and when unto mash temperature turn down to 500 or it will over shoot
Moving across the pond to the US soon and had to get rid of all my gear that i cant justify the cost of shipping. Now I need to make a wishlist 😄
I've been brewing on the Klarstein equivalent of the Brewer's Edge system, the temp control is a little janky but it's been working great for me, I can't complain for sub £200. I'm looking at replacing the electronics to something with WiFi and PID control eventually but it hasn't annoyed me enough to bother yet.
I love my 10gal Clawhammer 240v system. Super easy to dial in my temps and clean after use.
Because of this video I'm going C-hammer 20gal. Thanks braj
One vessel to rule them all braj... always glad when you post.
The Anvil Foundry has been TOUGH to beat. I even ferment in my anvil, post brew, and it turns out killer every time.
Just picked up a Digiboil 36L Electric Kettle with the Digimash add-on for $75 on Facebook Marketplace! Brewing my first beer with it this weekend!
I'm pulling the trigger on a Brewzilla Gen4 in about two weeks. My sous vide stick served me well but I'm glad to upgrade from it lol
Yea man 100%. I stopped for a while because it was so much work brewing out back with propane. Electric in the house is my next move. Hot side enhancements make brewing easier but cold side imho is still more important
I bought a used BrewTools b40 and I have to say- there is something to these overly expensive systems. I now use my mash and boil for sparging and it’s crazy the difference in technology. If you’re ever in Chicago and want to test it for fun let me know. 🍻
I've already sunk a ton into my 3-vessel keggle system, so I'll be sticking with it for a while, but man I do covet the Clawhammer system. I do like pretending I'm a professional brewer, though.
Noooo on the Kveik overpitch. For a 5 gal batch at 90 deg pitch, 2 grams, ta da. I just saved you 32 dollars. One packet for 5 brews! Brulusophy did it and said it worked. I've done it 10 times now. Love it in summer yolo freewill temp ctrl.
love your vids man. keep up the solid work braj
I just got the Vevor for X-mas and will be trying it out after New Year's. :)
Yup... brew commander failed right at flameout this weekend and no friends either lol
Missed your content, braj. Looking forward to more vids and beers.
Cheers Ryan!
I would love to have a claw hammer system to replace my 3 kettle setup, but that electrician cost to run a 220V line ugh..
Man, ive never felt so indy as i do right now, getting into biab about 8 years before it was cool. I get about 83% mash efficiency (milling my own grain) - i have NEVER understood the mashtun recerc hassle just to save $1.02 in grain and bragging rights that you hit 90%+ eff. You can keep that title im good. Grwat vid going through all the various systems, i enjoyed it.
Still rocking my Anvil, but always dreaming about the Clawhammer setup.
Neither. Seen many all in ones, including GFs, get defects just outside of warranty. So I opted for a 35ltr triclamped elec element system, and separate pump ect.. Will cost 30% more in total, but I can upgrade over time, and replace singular parts with ease if they break.
Batch size was the motivation for the larger systems in my case. 5 gallons of beer is 2 cases. Given those numbers I started from that baseline and built on that schedule to create a a uniform timeline for consistency. I used to brew every two weeks for multiple reasons and the result would be 2 cases of beer at minimum, but usually 4 cases of beer was an easy upgrade. Brewing 10 gallons takes no more time than brewing 5. I have 4 brothers in law and other family that will help should I not be emptying the kegs or bottles in a timely manner. Cheers.
Well damn i got the anvil foundry because of some of your videos but now you put clawhammer at the top! Maybe i shouldve waited 🤔
Hey man it’s good to see you back in the game! Keep on it Braj
Summer of 1970 I didn't buy any brew equipment other than a nice bottle capper I had gotten for 16 dollars.It was top of the line. At 14 I was always trying to think a head. I used all mom's stuff from the kitchen. She didn't mind she drank all the beer. If it makes you happy but it. 7,000 system to a 100 dollar one.
Been on the Anvil Foundry for the last few years. Love it. Really dialed it in. For me, the process is more important than the system.
good man chozo
Heading back to NC this spring - let's make a beer together
Correct!
Love it! Keep up the premium content and advice! Much love braj!
Rocked your sauce on some eggs this morning! Cheers braj!
@@HOMEBREW4LIFE heck yeah! Hope it was tasty!
Looking great CH! Awesome Vid. Hope you are enjoying the East coast! 🤙🏻
I am!
Love your video. I do own a Crafthardware system that is similar to your Clawhammer one, but I sunk waaaaayy to much money in Tri-Clamp accessories. I love to be able to not switch a single hose on brew day and just control everything with my valves... But regarding the high price systems, I do love systems such the Speidel Braumeister or the Brumas Braueule. Especially the Braumeister with its compact size, the ability to replace parts and the way the system works is quite intriguing. But not the price.
Just got a Vevor a few months back.
I do BIAB without the overflow tube in. Works great so far!
Temps are correct. Recirc pump works well.
Can't complain for the price.
Good to know! I love hearing that!
For a beginner brewer, what's the most reasonable setup to begin with, yet brewing good beer?
How 'beginner are we talking? Never done it before or ready to upgrade after the first few batches?
@CarlWoe thanks for replying. Beginner brewer like brewed just 1 single batch using a beer kit!
@@ReneUhlver my next step was continuing with kits, but more fermentation capacity. For like 3 more batches. Then i got myself a food safe bucket, a boiler for mulled wine, to cook in and the absolut best investment, a monster bottle cleaner. Cuts the effort for bottling into halv, if you dont get yourself a mini keg. Recently i upgraded to a vevor and it is amazing. Dirt cheap and it gets the job done
It's hard to get Anvil outside of North America. They could sell so much more, but they simply can't produce that many.