The Top 3 Myths About Moonshine Stills Uncovered

"Moonshine Stills” are what many Americans call copper or stainless steel distilling equipment that is used to make alcohol - commonly whiskey or moonshine. Call them what you want - many people do - that’s not the only misconception about the many designer moonshine stills available on the market today. So before you buy moonshine stills or any type of equipment for distilling alcohol at home, find out the truth about some of the most common myths about moonshine stills. 

  
Myth #1: Moonshine Stills are Illegal

There are two version of this common myth - either people believe that whiskey and moonshine distilling equipment is completely prohibited by federal law, or that it is only legal to own a whiskey or moonshine still that is no bigger than 1 gallon.

The truth is that it is completely legal (under federal law) to own alcohol distilling equipment of any size, as long as you’re using it for legal purposes. It is illegal to distill whiskey, moonshine, or other spirits without a license. “Legal purposes” include decoration and distilling water or essential oils.

Myth #2: All Moonshine Stills are the Same

People commonly believe that because the design is basic and ancient that there is no difference in types, designs, sizes, or materials of whiskey and moonshine stills. First of all, quality is important. A cheap moonshine still kit may include all the pieces, but have lower quality materials that don’t provide a high-quality product. However, the best designer moonshine stills will be items that contribute to your home or business for decades to come.

Make sure you do your research to find out if you need a specific moonshine still design, depending on what you plan to make. We always recommend copper as the highest quality material for whiskey stills, and always make sure your moonshine still was made with 100% lead-free soldering. 

 

Myth #3: Moonshine Stills are Hard to Maintain

When you buy moonshine stills or any distilling equipment, you have to consider that it will be a long-term item around your home for many years. You don’t want something that is difficult to maintain, and the common myth is that whiskey stills are difficult to clean and repair.

The fact is that copper moonshine stills are easy to clean - both inside and out - and have some of the best natural detoxifying properties. If you don’t want to use commercial copper cleaners, you can clean moonshine stills using an all-natural combination of hot water and vinegar. With just that and a little elbow grease, you can keep your beautiful still as shiny as a new penny.

Those are 3 truths for the most common misconceptions about moonshine and whiskey stills. When you’re shopping for a still, don’t let falsehoods stand in your way. Find the right copper moonshine still and start enjoying it soon.