Newbie question on Fermentation

[abs2003]

Ok, so I wanna get started on this soon, and someone gave me three 5 gallon carboys, so I want to use those for fermentation. Would it be ok if I put half a batch in one, and the other half in another?...because I dont wanna tone down the recipe to 4 gallons, and I wanna make-due with what I have. Thanks.

-Matt Abs

 

[Beer Snob]

Well the best thing to do would be to use a 6.5 gallon bucket or carboy, but there is not a problem with using the 5 gallon carboy, just be sure you put a blow off tube on it.

 

[joker_x]

I've not ever tried something like this before. Over oxidizing the beer shouldn't be a problem for the primary. I would suggest when you rack to the secondary that you combine the split batches into one 5 gallon carboy to reduce oxidation. I can't think of a reason this wouldn't work, but you would probably be best to simply invest in a 6.5 gallon bucket or carboy for primary (they're not that expensive).

Cheers!
-Rick

Primary: Honey Amber Ale
Secondary #1: Octane IPA
Secondary #2: Oatmeal Stout
Bottled/Drinking: American Amber Ale