All grain tools

Hey guys I'm switching from extract to all grain. I have the essentials (kettle, mash tun, wort cooler, etc...) are there any small items that you guys wouldn't do without?

 

A pump is a nice thing to have. It makes transferring wort from vessel to vessel, and cooling faster. I did gravity feed BIAB for a while and it is was a PITA.

 

An accurate thermometer.

 

Get some brewing software if you don't have some already!

 

Most important thing you need : a good thermometer for accurate temperature readings which are crucial when brewing all grain.

I bought the thermapen and am very happy with it.


*edit : don't forget a brewing software (beersmith or beertools), I couldn't brew withtout it !

 

A reliable hydrometer, Lots of good Hightemp silicone tubing, Kegs, Ph test strips, a copy of Mr. Papazians book.....oh and a good mash paddle

 

Could you recommend a certain pump?

Thanks,
Robert

 

I have a March and a Chugger...they both work well for me. I have this thermometer and really like the long stem Arbor Science Thermometer

I also use my refractometer a lot to monitor conversion and during the boil for post boil gravity monitoring.

 

Fermentation Temp Control, buy that before anything else.

 

In order of importance:

0. Notebook (write everything down, you'll need these notes to tune your process)
1. Beersmith (or other equivalent)
2. Thermapen
3. Fermentation chamber (I use "Son of Fermentation Chiller")
3.5 Wort chiller
4. Good excuse to give wife to escape for 5 hours

 

I have a Chugger. March and Chugger pumps are more or less the same, but Chuggers are cheaper. Can't go wrong with either one.