304 SS grain basket for 8 gallon Megapot?

[Corwin1968]

I love the simplicity of BIAB(ag) but hate the bag and would like to get a grain basket of the appropriate size. I know there are quite a few available online but has anyone found one that is the appropriate size for the 8 gallon Megapot? Being new to this, I don't know what kind of size difference tolerances are going to make a difference, or even if I'll like a basket more than a bag.

I had considered the Clawhammer starter set, but it's $399 and I got my Megapot for $99 plus the cost of a brew bag and that's still a bit overkill for my 3 gallon batches, although I like the added volume for when I'm ready to try some really big beers.

 

[Broken Crow]

What aspect of the bag do you hate? I had similar feelings myself when I first tried BIAB and experimented with mockups to see what difference a rigid mash-holder would make and concluded that it was a PITA to clean compared to a bag. Both will drip all over the place if you're not prepared to deal with it and as to sparging, while a steel sided basket makes it seem a bit easier, it still drips and oxygenates hot wort. If you really feel you need one, try https://www.dudadiesel.com/ ..they make them for any size. If you really wanna lose the bag, maybe an AIO like a Brewzilla or Anvil Foundry?
Do you have a crappy bag? Have you tried a Wilser? https://www.brewhardware.com/product_p/biab10.htm

 

[MaxStout]

Tell us about the bag you're using. Is it a paint strainer bag, or one designed for brewing?
What don't you like about the bag?

 

[Corwin1968]

The bag I've been using was the best fit from the local shop and it was way too big, so that colors my thinking, somewhat. But, I was very interested in a kettle/basket system before deciding to pick up the brewbag. I just find the bag to be finicky, but I'm expecting the 8 gallon Megapot and and Northern Brewer's 8 gallon brewbag, tomorrow, so that could change my mind (I hope!). I will look into the custom basket maker that was mentioned. For now, I'm dedicated to small batches (3 gal to fermenter) and if I decide to start doing larger batches, I'll definately consider an all-in-one electric system or something like the Clawhammer.

 

[MaxStout]

Look into Wilserbrewer. He does custom-fit bags at very reasonable prices. Very fine mesh and built like a tank.

 

[Much2Brew]

I have looked at this one in the past. Good price, the pictures show the dimensions and it has a welded on tab to hang the basket. This
I was going to get it for a smaller batch system I put together but it was 1/2 inch too tall, Don't think I can cut the legs down and leave enough room on the bottom side.

 

[Corwin1968]

That looks like a good size to fit my pot.

I received the pot and bag yesterday and things are looking much more positive for me, as far as dealing with the nuisance of a bag. The bag is pretty much an exact fit and I can't wait to brew with it.

 

[Corwin1968]

Just a quick update to state that having a bag that is tailor fit to the kettle is an absolute game changer. As long as I'm brewing beer on my stove, my 8 gallon Megapot with the appropriate size bag is fine. If I had the option of brewing at a lower height (ie, an AIO electric system), I would prefer a grain basket with it's hooks and an improved ability to lift out higher weights of grain/water.