What to buy a newbie brewer?

[sweetfish15]

My dad just started brewing a year ago and he is thoroughly enjoying it. He is still in the bottling phase but I've heard that kegging might be a smart route to go. I'm looking to get him something related for Christmas but am not 100% sure which way to go. I'm considering buying him a home kegging system (probably mini-kegs since it's just him and occasionally neighbors and friends who drink it) and was wondering what a good system might be? My other consideration is to buy a kegerator conversion kit and a couple smaller kegs. Any ideas/suggestions? Thanks!

 

[mrphillips]

I believe that "mini" kegs hold 5 gallons, which is probably perfect for your dad...assuming he does 5 gallon batches like most new homebrewers. Depending on the style of beer your dad prefers, you could also buy him an oak barrel for ageing his brews. You can even customize the barrel if you want. Here's a link. http://oakbarrelsltd.com/black-hoops/

 

[Rhumbline]

Have you talked to him about kegging? Some folks don't have any desire to get into it.

Depending on what equipment he has, more fermentation buckets/carboys might also be appreciated.

 

[Zamial]

Does he make yeast starters/have a stir plate? No, get/build that (In the DIY section below).

Does he have a PH meter? No, get that.

Does he have a good digital thermometer? get a thermopen

Does he have a refractometer? get that

 

[thatjonguy]

And tell him to get an account here in case he has any questions!

 

[E_Marquez]

If you can before you buy... spend a brew day with him... Listen to what he talks about wanting, replacing, upgrading, changing... hint at kegging and see if it interest him. Kegging implies a refrigerated place to store the keg system.. from a simple picnic tap and all in an old fridge, to building a kegerator.. for many, that's just more then they want / have room for, and so bottling is the way to go.. In that case,,, surely he will have want for more basic or bigger, advanced brewing stuff..

To straight up answer the question..
Lots of vendors for kegging kits..
I used Keg connenction and am very happy with the product

http://www.kegconnection.com/homebrew-keg-kits/

I purchased my steel 7lb CO2 cylinder from http://www.bvrgelements.com/product/7-lb-CO2-Tank-Reconditioned-Steel/ at an atractive price.