What is a Distillation Unit, and Why Should You Buy One?
By harnessing nature’s unique boiling points, you can separate pure alcohol from water. No, you’re not God — you’re a proud Home Moonshiner.
Distillation is a rewarding hobby—much like brewing beer—and is easy enough for anyone to learn and use safely. Save money by creating your own consumables at home. With a copper distillation unit from American Copper Works, you can make liquor, distilled water, essential oils, and so much more.
More than a hobby, a distillation unit is a valuable survival tool you can keep ready for emergencies. Protect yourself and your family by producing essentials like clean water or fuel. While distilling alcohol for sale is illegal without a permit, owning a still is a right worth defending. Just as we protect our right to bear arms, we should also protect our right to bear a still. Join the modern distillers’ renaissance—become a home moonshiner today.
What Types of Stills Are Available, and Which Should You Buy?
At American Copper Works, we aim to save the planet—one moonshine still at a time. Our handcrafted copper stills are trusted by both beginners and seasoned distillers. We specialize in three main designs: Alembic Style, Pot Style, and Reflux Style. Each type delivers exceptional results, producing spirits up to 170 proof and beyond.
If you’re looking for versatility and value, choose a Pot Still. Our pot stills are built faster, which means you save money without sacrificing quality. The built-in thumper increases proof for a smoother shine. Since 2013, American Copper Works has been proudly building pot stills in Manchester, New Hampshire. Alembic-style stills are crafted overseas due to their labor intensity, and Reflux stills are imported from China for their competitive stainless-steel pricing. But the fact remains: American Copper Works excels at producing premium, fully warranted copper moonshine stills made right here in the USA.
Is Using a Still Safe?
We’ll be honest—distilling requires respect and attention. Is it safe to drive a car blindfolded? No. The same principle applies here. Operating a still carelessly can be dangerous. That’s why American Copper Works provides guidance and support before, during, and after you use your still. Safety and education are key.
Always dispose of the first third of your first jar—it’s unsafe to drink. If you’re using your still for essential oils or THC extraction, request a solid-bottom model for stability. While we’ve never had a customer injured using our equipment, we strongly encourage every distiller to research, prepare, and exercise caution.
Why Buy From American Copper Works?
Since 2013, ACW has dedicated itself to craftsmanship, quality, and affordability. Every still is folded, seamed, and embossed for maximum strength. Our thumpers and worms are oversized to handle upgrades up to 30 gallons. Each still is built with premium, 20-ounce, 22-gauge copper—lead-free and domestically sourced. We believe in freedom, sustainability, and empowering individuals to create their own fuel, water, and spirits.
Customer service is another hallmark of our company. When you call, the owner answers—not an automated system. We offer a Lifetime Warranty on all copper products. If your still breaks, send it back—we’ll repair or replace it for free (just pay shipping). We also offer free shipping on all kits and complete units up to 10 gallons. Visit our Facebook page for live shop updates, reviews, and behind-the-scenes builds.
Our stills are easy to use and come with step-by-step instructions both in the box and online. We even have an app—Moonshine Still Buddy—to guide you through your first distillation safely and efficiently.
If I Bought One, How Do I Use It?
You’ll need a burner (at least 8,000 BTUs), mash, and proper ventilation. Mash is the fermented liquid that contains alcohol—it can be made from grains, fruits, or even beer and wine. Visit www.Mash.Recipes to learn more. Set up your still on a heat-safe surface, keep the pot filled with liquid, and seal the cap using a flour paste for a traditional airtight bond.
Once the process starts, monitor the temperature. Record the reading when distillate begins to drip—then add 20°F to determine your ideal operating range. Use a hydrometer to test your finished product, and always discard the first third of your initial run for safety. With practice, you’ll refine your process and enjoy the true craft of home distilling.
How Is the Product Made at American Copper Works?
Our Moonshine Stills are designed and built for durability, efficiency, and pride. We source only the purest copper directly from Paul Revere. Sheets arrive at our Manchester, New Hampshire workshop, where our skilled craftsmen measure, cut, bend, roll, and emboss each piece by hand. Every edge is folded 180 degrees for strength and safety, ensuring there are no sharp surfaces.
Each part—cone, cap, lyne arm, thumper, and worm—is precision-fitted and soldered. The thumper connects with spin unions for easy removal, and the condensing coil ensures maximum cooling. All units undergo water and flame tests before packaging. Each customer receives a video of their exact still being tested, boxed, and prepared for shipping in our double-walled, discreet boxes. We take pride in quality, safety, and transparency.
Why Copper?
Copper has been the material of choice for centuries because it enhances flavor and purity. American Copper Works uses only 20-ounce, 22-gauge American copper—never the thin 16-ounce material used by others. Copper reacts chemically with alcohol, removing sulfur compounds created during fermentation. This reaction results in smoother, cleaner-tasting liquor every time.
Copper also offers superior heat conductivity, ensuring even temperature distribution and faster vapor condensation. Plus, copper’s natural antimicrobial properties kill bacteria and viruses—giving you the cleanest, safest shine possible. Stainless steel may be easier to clean, but nothing beats the taste, tradition, and performance of copper.
How Do I Heat the Moonshine Still?
Our stills can be heated with propane or electric elements. For small units (2 gallons), a simple hot plate works fine. A 6-gallon still performs best with a 110V submersible heating element, while 10-gallon and larger models require a 220V element for optimal performance. Whether you choose flame or electric heat, make sure your system is powerful enough to bring your mash to a steady boil for efficient distillation.