What is a mash paddle you ask? When adding grains to your mash tun, you need to stir in the grains to avoid dry pockets of grain or "dough balls" as homebrews call it. Dough balls are bad because without getting all of the grain wet, you're not converting as much starch as you could.
Large commercial brewers have systems in their mash tun to mix it all up. Smaller craft brewers, microbrewers, and your local brew-pubs often use canoe oars or something that looks like one.
Homebrewers can use anything from a wooden spoon to something homemade or bought from the store. Mash paddles are typically made out of wood, plastic, or metal. Homebrew stores or online retailers typically charge $30 up to $90+ for these.
I had a real hard time justifying paying $30+ for a carved out piece of wood. I went to the local hardware store looking for some good hobby wood that was untreated. I was looking for something like maple, poplar, or walnut. I found a 36"x3.5" untreated piece of poplar for $4.95. A little more then even I was looking to spend, but oh well.
After spending some time researching online what top retailers were designing, I mapped out my cut lines with a pencil and went to down with the fun power tools. I used a jigsaw, drill, dremel, and orbital sander to build my mash paddle. I'm guessing I spent about 3 hours total making it. The design was the hardest part. I changed my mind a few times.
In the end I'm really happy with my finished product. Yes I could have just bought one, or even a wooden spoon as Erin said I should, but I made this myself. I've got some pride knowing that there is only one with the flaws it has.. and there is flaws, but I don't care.
Mmm flaws..
Notice the flier for Zombie Ammo. Yes I'm ready for the invasion.
No comments:
Post a Comment