How cheaply/inexpensivly can you brew 5 gal

[avidhomebrewer]

So I brew mainly APA, IPA style 5 gallon batches. I am now planning on buying my base malts in bulk and start reusing yeast. Do you think I can get down to $15 / 5 gal batch? How low can you guys get per batch? What are some ways to save here and there besides buying bulk base malt and reusing yeast?

My cheapest batch was $10 for a 5 gallon batch.

 

[dedhedjed]

As for buying grain in bulk, don't just settle for the small discount LHBS give for buying a full sack. Get in on a group buy, or if there is a brewpub or smaller microbrewery around, become friendly with the brewer there and you can often buy full sacks of grain from them at much cheaper prices because they buy their "bulk" grain in "bulk" by the pallet or truck-load.

 

[cyclonite]

Typical Batch:

7 lb base malt: $7
2 lb specialty grain: $3
3 oz hops: $3
Yeast: washed, but considering initial strain cost ~ $1
Propane: $3
Water: ~ $0.50 (I use a carbon filter)
Priming sugar: $0.20
Bottle caps: $1
StarSan + PBW: $0.50
Whirlfloc + Yeast Nutrient: $0.25
-----
Total ~ $19.45

 

[Beezy]

A lot of you guys have cheaper LHBS than I do. I am looking for an alternative. A buddy may be going pro soon that would be a good connect.