Guides
Handmade copper stills, kits, and electrics from New Hampshire
How a Copper Still Works: Heat, Vapor, and the Science of Separation
Learn how a copper still works: heat, vapor, condensing, and cuts. A plain guide to pot, thumper, and worm from a family shop that builds them by hand.
Is It Legal to Own a Still? What US Law Actually Says
Yes, you can legally own a copper still in the US. Here's what federal law says about distilling, TTB permits, and legal uses like water and oils.
Assembled Still or DIY Kit: Which Copper Still Fits You?
Assembled copper still or a you-solder EZ Kit? Compare complete units, DIY kits, electric and FlameFlow stills to find the right fit for your bench.
Electric vs. Flame-Heated Stills: Choosing Your Heat Source
Electric or flame-heated copper still? Compare control, setup, and space, then match the heat source to how you want to run your experiments at home.
Why Copper? The Chemistry Behind the Classic Still Metal
Why are stills made of copper? Learn how copper pulls sulfur from vapor, spreads heat evenly, and bends to a coppersmith's hands. Here's the chemistry.
How to Clean and Care for a Copper Still Between Runs
How to clean a copper still between runs: rinse, vinegar or citric acid, gentle scrubbing, and dry storage for kit, electric, and flame-flow stills.