Moonshine Still Parts & Accessories

How to Choose Moonshine Still Parts

Start with the job you need done. Most still parts fall into three groups: copper pieces (pot, thumper, condenser), heat sources (propane burner or electric heating element), and small tools and supplies (silver solder and a hydrometer).

Next, think about size. The propane burner on this page is made for 6 gallon to 30 gallon copper distillers. For the pots, thumpers and condensers, ask us which size matches the still you already have. A part that is too big or too small for the rest of your rig will not work well.

• Replacing a damaged piece? Buy the single part instead of a whole new still.
• Adding a stage? A thumper keg goes between the pot and the condenser.
• Switching heat? Choose a burner or an electric element with controller.
• Building from scratch? A complete moonshine still kit is usually the simpler buy.

Heat Source: Propane Burner or Heating Element for a Moonshine Still

Heat is what turns liquid into vapor, so your heat source matters. A propane burner for a still gives strong, fast heat and works well outdoors where there is plenty of fresh air. Ours ($129) is sized for 6 to 30 gallon copper stills.

A heating element for a moonshine still uses electricity instead of an open flame. Both of our elements come with a controller, so you can turn the heat up or down and hold it steady. Pick the 220v element ($449), or the 110v & 220v option ($349) that you can add to your order. If you want electric from the start, see our electric moonshine stills.

• Propane: strong heat, use outside with good airflow, never leave it running unattended.
• Electric: no open flame, easy heat control with the included controller.
• Check your outlet: know whether you have 110v or 220v power before you buy.

Thumper Keg for Sale, Plus Pots and Condensers

Our individual pieces let you build up or repair a still one part at a time. The pot ($599) holds and heats your liquid. The thumper ($299) sits in the middle and redistills the hot vapor as it passes through, which can make the output stronger and cleaner. The condenser ($299), also called the worm, cools the vapor back into liquid.

If you are not sure what a thumper does or what to put in it, read our guide: What Is a Thumper Keg?. It explains how it works and what size you need. As Alchemist G.G. Wilkins, I like to tell folks the thumper is where copper, heat and vapor really start working together.

Small Parts That Matter: Silver Solder and Hydrometers

A 1 lb. roll of silver solder ($79) is handy for repairs and for anyone building a you-solder kit. We assemble our own stills with lead-free silver solder. To learn why lead-free matters, read Is your still safe?

A hydrometer for moonshine measures alcohol proof. Our hydrometer set ($29) is the lowest-cost item on this page, and it is a simple tool that helps you understand what is coming off your still.

Why Heavy Copper Still Parts Last Longer

Cheap thin imported stills often use light copper that can dent, warp or wear out sooner. Our parts are made from thick 20 oz, 22 gauge American copper. Heavier copper holds its shape and stands up to years of heating and cleaning.

Each piece is cut, rolled, formed, soldered, tested, adjusted and inspected before it leaves Fort Wilkins. To compare copper weights, see What Thickness Copper for a Still?