I am about to build my MLT from a 10 gallon Rubbermaid water cooler. My question is what would be better, a false bottom or one of those "bazooka screens" aka braided SS supply hoses?
I use a false bottom in mine. It's works well, no complaints.
Can't give any advice on the bazooka screen.
You can make your own bazooka whereas making your own false bottom is harder to accomplish.
If you're going to batch sparge, anything will work just as well as the next, so use whatever is cheapeast and easiest for you. If you're going to fly sparge, a false bottom or properly designed manifold would be your best bet.