Hop sock or hop spider

I use a hop spider, but don't imagine there is a tremendous difference in effectiveness. The hop sock probably reduces the hop character (slightly) more than a large spider bag. A lot will depend on your technique. I occasionally stir my hops in the spider bag to keep them in the game.

In addition to bag/spider, also consider an old-fashioned strainer, bazooka filter, and whirlpooling to help leave the hop debris behind. Even using all of this I still have some green stuff make it through.

 

Hop spiders are good for multiple additions, but today I used the hop rocket @ 10 min so all my other late pellet additions went in at KO (bag). 6 of one, half dozen of another : )

 

I use a hop spider. Make my own bags out of silk that work great for me and it's easy.

 

For me it depends on the recipe. If I am doing a less hopped brew, usually 3 oz or less, I will use either hop bags or a 1 gallon paint strainer bag clipped to the side of the kettle. Any more hops that that, I use my spider with the 5 gallon paint bag attached to it.

 

Fancy. I've seen people make them out of muslin or curtains before.