I’ve found the Zymurgy - Introduction to Homebrewing issue to be a great resource of information so far; I plan on using the American Style Pale Ale recipe outlined in the guide for my first brew and I need a bit of help identifying which Coopers kit is being called for. The recipe states 1 can [3.75 lb (1.7 kg)] Coopers “Bitter” Brewing Kit (includes a packet of yeast), I’ve done some searching for said kit and I’m wondering if this is kit being referenced: http://us.diybeer.com/Australian_Bitter_p/896.htm
Do you have a local homebrew store nearby? If so, I would check them out and see what kits they have available for your first brew. Also check out the kits from http://www.northernbrewer.com/ and http://morebeer.com/.
Regarding a local homebrew store, one opened a few weeks ago and I planned on stopping there for the malt extract and hops. I’ll see what they’ve got for kits as well. I tend to try following directions to the tee, might not be necessary…?
Or the equivalent at your LHBS and follow the instructions. I’d opt for the liquid yeast but don’t bother to smack it a couple of days in advance. Maybe just a couple of hours.
And when you’re not sure of something post back here and we’ll help you out.
That recipe was created several years ago and Coopers has since changed their kit line up and packaging, so I’m not sure if it would have been the Australian or English Bitter kit that the recipe was based on. Either should work fine, since the Coopers kits (with perhaps a few exceptions) all have the same original gravity and IBUs (i.e. hop bitterness level).
As has been suggested here, you can substitute another manufacturer’s kit. If you brought the recipe to your local shop, the staff will be able to help you pick out what you need.
Welcome to homebrewing! Starting with a post on this forum, means you are very likely to succeed. Let us know how that first batch turns out.