5 gallon vs. 6.5 gallon

[DavidHawman]

So I am looking to get a better bottle to use as a secondary to free up my primary bucket so I can get two batches rolling at the same time. My question is: should I get a 6.5 gallon size so that I can use it as a primary if need be(maybe skip racking to secondary and just have two beers in the primary) or should I go with a 5 gallon to minimize head space?

Thanks!

 

[TipsyDragon]

you can always fill the head space with CO2 or put a gallons worth of sanitized marbles in the carboy.

 

[boo boo]

you can always fill the head space with CO2 or put a gallons worth of sanitized marbles in the carboy.

And with it being used as a primary, the headspace would be filled with CO2 anyway. Go with the 6.5

 

[Wellshooter]

And with it being used as a primary, the headspace would be filled with CO2 anyway. Go with the 6.5

+1 on that. you need the extra volume so you can leave the trub behind and still have 5 gallons of beer.

 

[Corkster]

I say if you have the room, you should always go bigger...... the minute you get the 5 gallon you'll kick yourself because you've limited your options and now will need to purchase yet another fermenter!

 

[DeafSmith]

As far as I know, the only sizes that BB sells are 3, 5, and 6 (not 6.5) gallons. Glass carboys, however, do come in 6.5 gallon size. Not trying to be nitpicky, but just to help the OP make a good choice.

 

[DavidHawman]

As far as I know, the only sizes that BB sells are 3, 5, and 6 (not 6.5) gallons. Glass carboys, however, do come in 6.5 gallon size. Not trying to be nitpicky, but just to help the OP make a good choice.

I must have been looking at the glass when I was comparing sizes.

The 6 gallon is what I will go with then. Thanks for the advice!

 

[DeafSmith]

The 6 gallon is what I will go with then. Thanks for the advice!

Be sure to read their advice about not tilting them on the edge when full to aerate - use a tennis ball under the center dome instead.

http://www.better-bottle.com/products_master.html
Look under product info - "How-to Tips"