Mashing --> single-step vs multi-step

[ParkerBrew]

Just upgraded my mash tun from the gatorade cooler to a keggle. This paves the way to do easier multi-step mashes. Not having done a multi-step mash...do most folks do multi-step mashes if they have the capability to? Wondering if it's worth the extra effort?

[JMcG]

I don't have heat in my mash tun, so only do single step, typically, and "mash out" in the kettle.
Others should comment, but my impression is with modern malting techniques, if your grain bill has enough base malt (and time) to convert any specialty grains, its not needed, but can give you more control: increase or decrease in head retention (protein rest), for example; or possibly a drier beer with a two step saccharification rest. Adjusting your grain bill will influence these things if you don't step mash.
It'd be another set of factors you can control (or worry about).
jim

[Rob Martin]

I have a very nice HERMS set up....and don't even use it. I tend to brew just about more lager than anyone I know in LBG sans Jim McGovern (if I'm overlooking somebody, sorry). Hence my current on tap:

Primary: empty
Secondary: Schwarzbier
On tap: Maerzen, Czech Pils

We use a cooler mash tun which is why I procurred a HERMS for step mashing. For us, it is a PITA. Inevitably we get a stuck sparge because the pump creates too much of a draw on the grain bed.

Some people state that with today's malt technology, step mashing is not needed. I'm not so sure I agree. If we want to really make an authentic malty lager, we do a true decoction. I think it is more rewarding too.

[Rugger1978]

Rob, I primarily only brew lagers also! lmao! And I only do single step mashes as I currently still using a cooler and batch sparging. I do mash for 90 minutes no matter what I'm making to insure I get close to full conversion as possible.

[JMcG]

I have a very nice HERMS set up....and don't even use it. I tend to brew just about more lager than anyone I know in LBG sans Jim McGovern (if I'm overlooking somebody, sorry).

I don't do too many lagers anymore, too busy brewing IPA's for Jody!
jim

[ParkerBrew]

Haven't tried a lager yet, although it's on my list for next winter. I go for a lot of IPA, Ale, Stout type styles. I also want to start including more wheat and a little rye into my recipies.

Been using gravity for my lautering out of the cooler mash tun. I haven't splurged for the pump yet, so I'll give gravity a try the first time or two with the keggle. I have an awesome terrace off my back patio to get a good head differential. No stuck sparges yet...

[Rob Martin]

Haven't tried a lager yet, although it's on my list for next winter. I go for a lot of IPA, Ale, Stout type styles. I also want to start including more wheat and a little rye into my recipies.

Been using gravity for my lautering out of the cooler mash tun. I haven't splurged for the pump yet, so I'll give gravity a try the first time or two with the keggle. I have an awesome terrace off my back patio to get a good head differential. No stuck sparges yet...

With these types of beers, and with the quality of modified malts, IMO, multi-step mashing would be a waste of time and effort.

[ParkerBrew]

Thanks for the input everybody. So far it seems that single step is the popular way to go.