Alternative caps for cider/beer bottles?

Question

I am experimenting with making my own Hard Cider

I have the supplies, and have some larger s***w-top bottles that will probably work, but would rather use standard-size beer bottles (that i have emptied myself)

I don't want to spend the $$$ on grosch bottles YET, since i am trying this 1st batch on a budget, and only spending big if i like the results. I know you can use plastic bottles, but prefer to avoid that if possible. you can get beer caps, but they are not the easiest to use unless you get a capping apparatus.

Is there a plastic/metal cap that can be screwed on a standard beer bottle (bottle has threads) and can be reused?

Answer 1

no, unfortunately, if you are home brewing you really need to use the bottles without the s***w top.  Otherwise you will end up with a big huge mess.  

I'm interested in your hard cider, would you mind emailing me your recipe?  Thanks!  :)

Answer 2

There's no easy caps you can just s***w on.  You need to use fresh crown caps, and cap them properly so that they form a seal.

I use a cheap "hand capper" that you might be able to pick up for $15-$20 .   Also, you might be able to rent a "bench capper" from your local homebrew store.

I use the standard returnable glass bottles for my brews.