Thinking about going all-grain? DO IT!!!

[Looper]

I just picked up 2 batches worth of ingredients from my LHBS..

The only problem that I wish I had done differently, is to use a 10gal MLT instead of the 5gal MLT. I didn't do enough research beforehand apparently, but the very highest gravity beer for a 5gal batch with a 5gal MLT is ~1070.. GO with the 10gal round coolers!!!

 

[Mermaid]

I think I'm definitely an AG homebrewer now. After a bit more investment in building a mash tun, and buying a burner and bigger kettle, it's much cheaper to buy ingredients and the best part is that I get the enjoyment of recipe tweaking, mash times, water chemistry, etc. I'm a geek. I like to tweak stuff. It's all part of the enjoyment I get out of brewing. It's also kicked my ass hard a few times, including a rather poor attempt at brewing a wit beer over the summer. Live and learn - and keep improving on the process. WOOT!

 

[MrManifesto]

i went from a partial extract (about three brews, my SWMBO introduced me, which is funny because she doesn't even drink anymore) to AG and have never looked back. AG really is the way to go. over time it saves you money and you are truly a "brewer". no offense to extract folks but i agree with mosher, it's a little TV dinner-ish.

 

[theveganbrewer]

I did one extract brew that came with my initial equipment kit then did one partial, and now am all-grain from batch 3 onward. I like being able to buy all the ingredients in bulk and tinker around with stuff like coolers, stir plates, keezers, etc.

More than anything, going AG made me take the time to learn about the process and yeast. I felt more responsible to the grains and the investment.