How to Use a Hydrometer for Moonshine

If you are distilling your own moonshine, then it is necessary to know its strength. Liquor proof can be determined by measuring how much alcohol there is present; using a hydrometer will allow for accurate measurements.

Hydrometers are small glass devices equipped with scales printed on them that measure density of liquids such as water or mash, and when dropped into these solutions it will sink to different heights depending on its density. When dropped in water or mash it will sink to its desired height depending on density; where this occurs depends on meniscus height – higher meniscus means greater proof!

To use a hydrometer effectively, first remove any air bubbles floatin in the solution. Next, fill a glass container with test solution and carefully lower your hydrometer into it while tapping gently on its sides to release any air pockets that might have formed between its sides and itself. Finally, read off its scale the specific gravity value.

Skilled moonshiners would use the “bubble test” to determine proof, while modern home distillers rely on hydrometers instead. Furthermore, professionals brewers and distillers must have access to this tool as well.