Total Beginner Looking for Help

[VapesXO]

Hey, everyone!

Like the title says, I'm a total beginner that's looking for help with a setup. First I'd like to read up on what each part is and what it does, as well as the advanced nature of Vaping (mods, customizing, etc). Then I'd like to get some help in building an ideal setup for myself.

Before this, I'd like to talk about why I'm looking into Vaping and what I want out of it.

I have Type 1 Diabetes, and I have an insatiable sweet tooth. I'm always buying and eating candy and other sweets that I know I don't need; I just can't help it! I've read and heard that people have been able to successfully curb their sweet tooths by Vaping, using nicotine-free juices. That's what I want to try and do!

A friend of mine has a really nice Vape that he got from a local shop called Natural Vapors. I'm going to talk to him about what he has when he gets back into town, but it could take a while... I'm pretty sure he uses an iTaste VTR, with some kind of tank (not a clearomizer).

I'd want something like that, but not as bulky; preferably something that can fit relatively well into the pocket of my jeans. I know setups like that are all on the large side, but surely there are some that are smaller than others, while still being of good quality.

Another friend of mine has a Kanger Tech (I think it's the EVOD) with a standard clearomizer on it, and the flavor is pretty weak; nothing like my other friend's VTR w/ rebuildable tank. The more flavor I get out of my setup, the better! I don't think I'd want a drip though, because of how often you have to add more juice.

TL;DR - New to this; seeking general help & info. Best brands? Best sites to buy from? Ideal setups (tanks vs clearomizers, etc)?

Thanks!

 

[RMarcusY]

Welcome to the VU.
One of the first things you will find is "there is no perfect one size fits all" answer to what you want/need.

 

[VapesXO]

Welcome to the VU.
One of the first things you will find is "there is no perfect one size fits all" answer to what you want/need.

I wasn't suggesting that there was; everyone has their own opinions. It's the multitude of like opinions that count.

If 8/10 recommend a certain site to buy from, they're probably legit.
If 8/10 people recommend Brand A over Brand B, it's probably for good reason.
If 8/10 people say clearomizers have weak flavor, I'd want at least a tank, if not a drip.

I know it won't be simple, and that there will be a variety of answers given. I'm just looking for some general help.

 

[RMarcusY]

Okay
I'm happy with a Nautilus mini tank sitting on a iStick vaping sweet cream.
I'm also happy with my R-80 MOD powering a Smoketech ARO V2 loaded with watermelon.
Both units are fairly small, easy to maintain and give me what I need to stay off cigs.

 

[VapesXO]

Okay
I'm happy with a Nautilus mini tank sitting on a iStick vaping sweet cream.
I'm also happy with my R-80 MOD powering a Smoketech ARO V2 loaded with watermelon.
Both units are fairly small, easy to maintain and give me what I need to stay off cigs.

Thanks for the input!

After briefly looking into the first setup, it looks like it is in fact fairly small. How strong of a flavor do you get? Also, I can't tell if the Nautilus Mini is a tank or a clearomizer...

 

[RMarcusY]

The i'stick battery last all day, I usualy have to refill the tank after 6-8 hours--
When that tank is empty I usually pull out the "R-80 with a fresh/filled Smoktech clearomizer tank..
I also have 45 flavors so I'm always making mixes so I have something diffefrent.

 

[VapesXO]

I really like the look of your setup now that I've looked into it more and watched some reviews (Indoor Smokers).

The IStick looks great! My only concern with it would be if the battery died, I couldn't pop a fresh one into it.

The Nautilus looks excellent as well, although I'm wondering if the Nautilus Mini would be a better choice for me; I don't know if I'd use more than the 2ml of the Mini in one day. Although, the regular Nautilus does use the dual bottom coil over the single bottom vertical coil of the Mini. Does that make much of a difference?

What would you guys say is a good choice for a mod that can have the battery swapped out? Preferably something the same length as, or smaller, than that of the MVP2 and VTR.

Thanks so much!

 

[Huckleberried]

IPV?

 

[VapesXO]

I did some comparing, and here's what I found.

IStick vs MVP20W vs IPV Mini

Length: The IStick at 3", the IPV Mini at 3.75" and the MVP20W at 4.21"
Battery Size: The IStick at 2200mAh, the IPV Mini with a 2500mAh 18650* and the MVP20W at 2600mAh
Removable Battery: The IStick; no. The IPV Mini; yes. The MVP20W; no.
*2500mAh is the highest 18650 battery I've seen on Vape sites so far, but Amazon and eBay have up to 5000mAh.

In terms of features they're all pretty similar. Actually, all-around they're all pretty similar. I like that the battery of the IPV Mini is removable, as I could carry a spare in the small padded case I carry my insulin in. But is the ability to change the batteries worth the extra money?

I'm also considering the VAMO V5. It can use an 18650 and be 5.5" long or use 2 18350 and be 4.25" long. Since those are relatively inexpensive and I can carry about 5-6 of them in my insulin case, it could be a nice setup. IDK!

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

I did some comparing, and here's what I found.

IStick vs MVP20W vs IPV Mini

Length: The IStick at 3", the IPV Mini at 3.75" and the MVP20W at 4.21"
Battery Size: The IStick at 2200mAh, the IPV Mini with a 2500mAh 18650* and the MVP20W at 2600mAh
Removable Battery: The IStick; no. The IPV Mini; yes. The MVP20W; no.
*2500mAh is the highest 18650 battery I've seen on Vape sites so far, but Amazon and eBay have up to 5000mAh.

In terms of features they're all pretty similar. Actually, all-around they're all pretty similar. I like that the battery of the IPV Mini is removable, as I could carry a spare in the small padded case I carry my insulin in. But is the ability to change the batteries worth the extra money?

I'm also considering the VAMO V5. It can use an 18650 and be 5.5" long or use 2 18350 and be 4.25" long. Since those are relatively inexpensive and I can carry about 5-6 of them in my insulin case, it could be a nice setup. IDK!

just becasue it's an 18650 doesnt mean its a vape battery. be careful with amazon/ebay/any non vape site for batteries for now. however the eLeaf you can charge n vape via the micro usb port.....so worrying bout battery life if not really an issue IMHO. I havent used one, but they seem pretty damn good. plus the nat mini, or even the standard nat aspire, replacing the coils with the mini's bvc's would work pretty well for you too IMO.....

 

[VapesXO]

just becasue it's an 18650 doesnt mean its a vape battery. be careful with amazon/ebay/any non vape site for batteries for now. however the eLeaf you can charge n vape via the micro usb port.....so worrying bout battery life if not really an issue IMHO. I havent used one, but they seem pretty damn good. plus the nat mini, or even the standard nat aspire, replacing the coils with the mini's bvc's would work pretty well for you too IMO.....

Yeah, that's another thing I was taking into account when considering batteries from non-Vape websites. I'd rather be safe and not buy from them.

I was doing a little more thinking...

If I went with the VAMO V5 using the 18350 batteries and just carrying a bunch of spares, I'd have to buy a charger for them as well. Between the VAMO, the Nautilus, the charger and the spare batteries I'd be over $150 in a breeze. I could get two of the IStick (this second one is just the battery) and the Nautilus for right around the $100 mark... The second one might be overkill seeing as you can just plug it in to charge it, but if it died when I was on the run and couldn't plug it in it would be useful.

What do you guys think? Admittedly I kinda like the look of the VAMO V5 and similar setups more than the IStick, IPV Mini, MVP20W, VTR, etc. that have the tank sticking up off the top of this giant rectangle, lol. It's not as bad with the IStick though, because it's not nearly as wide as the others.

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

Yeah, that's another thing I was taking into account when considering batteries from non-Vape websites. I'd rather be safe and not buy from them.

I was doing a little more thinking...

If I went with the VAMO V5 using the 18350 batteries and just carrying a bunch of spares, I'd have to buy a charger for them as well. Between the VAMO, the Nautilus, the charger and the spare batteries I'd be over $150 in a breeze. I could get two of the IStick (this second one is just the battery) and the Nautilus for right around the $100 mark... The second one might be overkill seeing as you can just plug it in to charge it, but if it died when I was on the run and couldn't plug it in it would be useful.

What do you guys think? Admittedly I kinda like the look of the VAMO V5 and similar setups more than the IStick, IPV Mini, MVP20W, VTR, etc. that have the tank sticking up off the top of this giant rectangle, lol. It's not as bad with the IStick though, because it's not nearly as wide as the others.

not to sound like a asshole, but now your runnin a bunch of what if's. batteries die. we've all been there. carrying a bunch of batteries sucks.
IMHO, make sure your istick is charged, MOST users get a day plus out of one charge. if you're runnin low, or at your desk or home, keep it on the charger. that way when your out you'll have it charged. @GrimmGreen did a review on this too,

he called it basically amazing..........

 

[VapesXO]

not to sound like a asshole, but now your runnin a bunch of what if's. batteries die. we've all been there. carrying a bunch of batteries sucks.
IMHO, make sure your istick is charged, MOST users get a day plus out of one charge. if you're runnin low, or at your desk or home, keep it on the charger. that way when your out you'll have it charged.

You don't sound like an asshole! If anyone does, it's me. I tend to think too much when it comes to things like this, lol.

Another thing I didn't think of is that I have a portable power bank that I carry with me in case my phone, iPod or speaker dies; I can use that if the IStick dies. It seems like I could definitely make it work for my purposes without a problem.

It's silly, but the only thing I'm still kinda hung up on is the shape, lol. You "typical" Vape that's just a straight cylindrical unit kinda looks better.

 

[Huckleberried]

eGrip? Too many options. All good. Big problem, huh? Lol!


Sent from my stupid iPhone because I don't have an Android.

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

AH, so you like the 'tube' mod. I feel ya.
what you wanna look for then, is a passthrough(vape and charge) tube mod.
not the 'best' but i do have one. i like it....
http://www.theeciggy.com/Joyetech-eVic-p/v-evic.htm
its a vv/vw, passthrough.
my wife has this one, she like it. passthrough, but much less power:
http://www.theeciggy.com/itaste-W-Variable-Voltage-MOD-p/itw.htm

both of which can be less expensive on other sites, just a ref for ya.

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

OH, btw, there's a whole deal with box mod users. as of right now i only have tube mods but am wanting to switch to a box mod. its all in what you like!!

 

[VapesXO]

AH, so you like the 'tube' mod. I feel ya.

Yeah, I just kinda like the look of the tube mod over the look of the box mod. The problem that I have with them though is their overall length... I did some calculating, and almost all of the tube mod setups I could build would be around 7.5 - 8+ inches long! That'd stick so far out past the top of my pocket!

That's the main reason I'm thinking I might go with a box mod; they're shorter which means the overall setup won't stick out of my pocket so much. I could of course go with the VAMO V5 and use the 18350 batteries to have a shorter tube, but I'd definitely need to carry some spares around... 800mAh won't last long. I'd also be spending $150+ between the parts for the Vape, the batteries and the charger.

I take it the Nautilus BVC is preferred over the original Nautilus BDC? On My Vapor Store the BVC has outstanding reviews. Skimming through some I read that it produces less dry hits and gives better flavor than the BDC. I know they're interchangeable, so if I get the original Nautilus I can put the BVC in it.

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

yes. the bvc provides much more flavor and vapor. I just saw this since you are trying to keep you vape in you pocket.
http://www.hawkvape.com/ismoka_eleaf_istick_20w_mod_wholesale?search=eleaf

damn i cant find it, but someone makes an adapter for the eleaf that enables the user to fold the tank down beside it.

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

http://www.smokecityca.com/istick-bending-adapter-p/sc_bending_adapter.htm

someone on here sells'em too just cant remember who.....

 

[VapesXO]

yes. the bvc provides much more flavor and vapor.

I'll either go with the Nautilus Mini or the Nautilus and use BVC then.

http://www.smokecityca.com/istick-bending-adapter-p/sc_bending_adapter.htm

That's pretty awesome!

You seem surprised that I want to carry it in my pocket... Where do most people carry theirs? I suppose if I went with a tube mod setup I could just unscrew the two halves every time and keep it in my pocket, but that'd get annoying. Plus it could be bad for the parts for all I know...

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

No not surprised, i carry mine in my pocket sometimes, but typically its in my hand.
if your dead set on a tube mod
provari mini
zmax mini
zmax telescoping - more choices of batteries
OR
any number of telescoping mods.

Nautilus Mini or Reg is a great way to go. OR, get both. have different flavors.........


hell where to carry your mod is a BIG thread on here.
a lot of people use flahlight holsters on their belt.

 

[VapesXO]

No not surprised, i carry mine in my pocket sometimes, but typically its in my hand.
if your dead set on a tube mod; provari mini, zmax mini, zmax telescoping - more choices of batteries. OR any number of telescoping mods.

Nautilus Mini or Reg is a great way to go. OR, get both. have different flavors.........

hell where to carry your mod is a BIG thread on here. a lot of people use flahlight holsters on their belt.

Carrying it in your hand sounds like a pain in the ass. What about when you're shopping, working, etc?

I'm still up in the air about which style of mod to go with; both have their pros and cons. I love that a lot of the box mods have built-in batteries so you don't need to carry spares, but they just look a little strange to me. The tube mods are all pretty tall and would be hard to pocket carry, and they require you to carry spare batteries (unless you're using a 18650 that's 2500mAh or more), but they look better in my opinion. I need to decide what matters more.

I think I might go with the Nautilus Mini at first, and if I find I'm needing to refill more than I'd like to, I can upgrade to the original, larger version.

I don't know as I'd want to carry anything on my belt. Maybe disassembled (the tank unscrewed from the mod) in a Project Box? That could perhaps fit in the pocket a little easier? What about rigging a keyring to the Vape and attaching that to a lanyard around your neck? It'd probably swing around too much though.

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

If i'm shopping, which doesnt happen often i'll put it in my back pocket. The last thing you want is to be unhappy with your mod. I get they look different but that's why they make different styles. carrying spare batteries is a pain in the ass too. you have to use care when doing so, you dont wanna carry them in your pocket as your keys COULD cause them to short, yea hey could. one key on pos anther key on neg and POW your pocket is hotter then hell and poss not there. Not tryin to scare ya, just inform you.Bottom line its what you like.
http://www.theeciggy.com/itaste-W-Variable-Voltage-MOD-p/itw.htm
has an internal battery, is a passthrough AND is more in line with what your lookin for, i think...........

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

I don't know as I'd want to carry anything on my belt. Maybe disassembled (the tank unscrewed from the mod) in a Project Box? That could perhaps fit in the pocket a little easier? What about rigging a keyring to the Vape and attaching that to a lanyard around your neck? It'd probably swing around too much though.

you can do that
http://www.thedigitalcig.com/eGo-leather-lanyard_p_664.html
http://www.thedigitalcig.com/TDC-eGo-Lanyard_p_553.html
http://www.thedigitalcig.com/MOD-lanyard_p_723.html


damn, how bout this:
http://www.thedigitalcig.com/Aspire-Premium-Kit_p_1025.html

 

[Zamazam]

It comes down to portability and aesthetics if I'm reading your posts correctly. The iStick and mini Nautlus is a really great combo. The IPV mini will allow you to use larger 18650's, but you will need a battery charger and IMR18650's rated at 20amps. The eGrip is tiny, fits in your pocket, but the downside is the 1500Mah internal battery.

I'd stay away from the 185350 batteries, you will go through a lot of them, even at 10-15 watts. Same with the mini iStick, 1050 Mah will get used up really fast.

I have an iStick and a mini Nautilus and love it. I also have an Egrip and love it, it's tiny and vapes quite well.

 

[VapesXO]

If i'm shopping, which doesnt happen often i'll put it in my back pocket. The last thing you want is to be unhappy with your mod. I get they look different but that's why they make different styles. carrying spare batteries is a pain in the ass too. you have to use care when doing so, you dont wanna carry them in your pocket as your keys COULD cause them to short, yea hey could. one key on pos anther key on neg and POW your pocket is hotter then hell and poss not there. Not tryin to scare ya, just inform you.Bottom line its what you like.
http://www.theeciggy.com/itaste-W-Variable-Voltage-MOD-p/itw.htm
has an internal battery, is a passthrough AND is more in line with what your lookin for, i think...........

Yeah, I'm aware of what can happen if you carry batteries in your pocket. That's why I'd carry them inside the soft clamshell case that I keep my insulin in, which is always with me (usually in my back pocket). I could fit quite a few of them in there. But the cost is still pretty high; the mod, tank, batteries and charger...

I've seen that iTaste VV4 already. It's nice, but the small battery is what's kinda putting me off about it.

you can do that
http://www.thedigitalcig.com/eGo-leather-lanyard_p_664.html
http://www.thedigitalcig.com/TDC-eGo-Lanyard_p_553.html
http://www.thedigitalcig.com/MOD-lanyard_p_723.html

damn, how bout this:
http://www.thedigitalcig.com/Aspire-Premium-Kit_p_1025.html

I feel like those would all still swing around too much when I walk. Especially if I had to bend down for anything (especially at work, as I work in Floor Care).

I've seen that kit already. It's nice, like the iTaste VV4 you posted above, but again; the battery is pretty small. 1000mAh won't last long.

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

It comes down to portability and aesthetics if I'm reading your posts correctly. The iStick and mini Nautlus is a really great combo. The IPV mini will allow you to use larger 18650's, but you will need a battery charger and IMR18650's rated at 20amps. The eGrip is tiny, fits in your pocket, but the downside is the 1500Mah internal battery.

I'd stay away from the 185350 batteries, you will go through a lot of them, even at 10-15 watts. Same with the mini iStick, 1050 Mah will get used up really fast.

I have an iStick and a mini Nautilus and love it. I also have an Egrip and love it, it's tiny and vapes quite well.

you said it.

 

[VapesXO]

It comes down to portability and aesthetics if I'm reading your posts correctly. The iStick and mini Nautlus is a really great combo. The IPV mini will allow you to use larger 18650's, but you will need a battery charger and IMR18650's rated at 20amps. The eGrip is tiny, fits in your pocket, but the downside is the 1500Mah internal battery.

I'd stay away from the 185350 batteries, you will go through a lot of them, even at 10-15 watts. Same with the mini iStick, 1050 Mah will get used up really fast.

I have an iStick and a mini Nautilus and love it. I also have an Egrip and love it, it's tiny and vapes quite well.

Right. Portability comes before aesthetics, but for some reason the aesthetics still matter more than they should to me.

I like the idea of being able to change batteries on the fly and not need to plug into the wall or a portable power bank if the IStick dies, but the cost of the mod, tank, batteries and charger comes out to be rather high. So, that's off-putting as well.

All in all I'd likely never have the IStick die on me so long as I kept it charged properly. I don't think I'd be using it THAT much. A smaller tube mod like the VV4 or the Aspire Premium Kit might not cut it though, with their 1000mAh batteries. The VAMO V5 using the two 18350's would be 1600mAh and wouldn't be overly large in size, but I don't know if it would be dying on me. Plus the cost comes back into play; mod, tank, batteries and charger = $150+ easily.

 

[bigdaddybrink1]

beating the dead horse.
istick is the way to go. here's a great deal its even from @VaporJoes blog:
http://vaporjoes.com/blog/

honestly @DrumsXO istick is your new mod. enjoy it. hahahaha.....
jk


serisously though that's the best 'bang for the buck'.

 

[Zamazam]

Right. Portability comes before aesthetics, but for some reason the aesthetics still matter more than they should to me.

I like the idea of being able to change batteries on the fly and not need to plug into the wall or a portable power bank if the IStick dies, but the cost of the mod, tank, batteries and charger comes out to be rather high. So, that's off-putting as well.

All in all I'd likely never have the IStick die on me so long as I kept it charged properly. I don't think I'd be using it THAT much. A smaller tube mod like the VV4 or the Aspire Premium Kit might not cut it though, with their 1000mAh batteries. The VAMO V5 using the two 18350's would be 1600mAh and wouldn't be overly large in size, but I don't know if it would be dying on me. Plus the cost comes back into play; mod, tank, batteries and charger = $150+ easily.

Start Cheap and get the iStick and mini Nautilus, If you want a Tube mod later you can get one.

 

[VapesXO]

beating the dead horse. istick is the way to go.

honestly @DrumsXO istick is your new mod. enjoy it. hahahaha..... jk

serisously though that's the best 'bang for the buck'.

Yeah, you're probably right. I'm just now debating between the IStick and the MVP20W, because it's got that extra 400mAh. It's a bit bigger (about 1-1/4" bigger), but it'd still be pretty compact. I like that bending adapter thing for the IStick though to make it fit in my pocket better...

Start Cheap and get the iStick and mini Nautilus, If you want a Tube mod later you can get one.

That's a good point.

 

[Prsurf2k]

Well if you ever do get a Vamo which are fairly cheap atm $20-$25, a Nitecore I2 $10-$15 and two of these at 7-8$. This was my starter kit when a good friend introduced me to Vaping. I currently own 3 vamo 2 istick one nemi two nemesis one Stingray X and waiting on my Sigelei 150 watt. I wish i could have started with an istick just because of the stealthiness. oh and I also started out with two Kanger aerotanks one bought one given to me.

Panasonic NCR18650B 3,6V 3400mAh

 

[VapesXO]

Well if you ever do get a Vamo which are fairly cheap atm $20-$25, a Nitecore I2 $10-$15 and two of these at 7-8$. This was my starter kit when a good friend introduced me to Vaping. I currently own 3 vamo 2 istick one nemi two nemesis one Stingray X and waiting on my Sigelei 150 watt. I wish i could have started with an istick just because of the stealthiness. oh and I also started out with two Kanger aerotanks one bought one given to me.

Panasonic NCR18650B 3,6V 3400mAh

Thanks for the information!

I did some looking around after you said a VAMO could be had for $20-$25 and found them on Fast Tech for that price. Over on My Vapor Store where I've been looking this whole time they're $50-$55!

I'm now considering getting a VAMO V5, an Aspire Nautilus Mini, the Nitecore i4 charger, and 4-5 18350 batteries for right around $100! I did the math and the build would come out to be about 7-1/8" long, which wouldn't be too bad in my pocket; I tested it by cutting a busted drum stick to that size.

I'm not sure what to get, honestly. VAMO, IStick, MVP20W...

 

[Prsurf2k]

Well I was just suggesting the Vamo because its a great starter and not expensive, but with that said the istick not much more either and has battery already and just need charging, vamo you would need at least two 18650's and a charger. Then you have to get your atomizer on top of that. and replacement coils ... so you see it adds up fast. What made me change from Vamo was how long it is and then I was ready to Vape at more than 15 watts cause some of the flavors and juices tasted better at a higher vape . Any way its up to you, what your preferences are and how you want to vape. We are all just suggesting.
I say find what you like in looks, size, and price wise and then go from there. Also if you go to the isitck website eleafworld.com you will see they have a leather cover for it and a silicone one plus the bending adatper.

 

[VapesXO]

Yeah, I'm basically fighting with myself at this point trying to decide what I want.

 

[Odian]

You have put a lot of thought into it, and argue your points of contention solidly.

You're beating yourself up, and pinching a dollar to save a penny.

Read this site. Ordering stuff from fasttech is ok, if you want inexpensive stuff. But you pay for it, in that it *could* take a month to get what you order.

All of the products you are looking at, have their plus's and minus's. But honestly, you state that you are a beginner to this. If you kill an IStick in a day, you have way more going on than you're telling us.

 

[RMarcusY]

Damn dude, have you been up all night? Or are you in a different time zone?

 

[Bplus]

On the 18350's. Since smaller is what I'm pushing towards these days. I get much better life off of them with a mechanical and rebuildable tank. I used 350 on itaste svd and zmax mini and the life was pretty bad.
Current setup is nemesis clone 350 mode and kayfun clone


I'm getting 3-5 hrs / battery on this set up. Oh... I'm using 30g kanthal at 1.4 ohm.

 

[UncleRJ]

Don't try to over-think things. You will only hurt yourself

A Vamo V5 will fit nicely in your pocket. And so will a V6 (five more watts) in the 18350 short mode.

So will the Istick. So will a Hana clone (both of those with internal chargers but you can swap the battery out in the Hana if need be.

Extra 18350 batteries are easy to carry and you can even buy little plastic cases for them. Or just chuck them in an old prescription bottle like I do.

And people tend to forget this nice little mod, the Smok Groove 2.

http://www.madvapes.com/the-groove-2.html

Mostly because the first model had a ton of problems with it which have been fixed with the second version.

15 watts with a freaking 3,800 mAh battery. Hell, I could not drain that in a day at 15 watts!

 

[freemind]

You keep talking about 18350 batteries. They are NOT going to last you unless you vape one drag less often than an hour. You DON'T want to fart around carrying batteries. The 18350's are a BAD idea. Just stick with something that uses a 18650 battery and be done with it.

I'm NOT a fan of internal batteries. When they go bad, you toss the whole mod. Cheap or not, it's a waste.

I just bought my wife a Cloupor mini. It takes an 18650 AND has pass through charging.

And really, if money is an issue, vaping likely won't be for you. You will spend a hundred bucks on juice and likely will not use some of it and toss it. Tastes IS subjective. What sounds tasty may actually taste like chit.

Vaping something that tastes good, does NOT curb my hunger for something that tastes good.

 

[Heather]

I think the stick is a great starter. You can always buy something different at some point. Fasttech takes a long time to ship. They are cheap but you will have to wait as it is located in china. I have a nautilus mini and love it as my tank.

 

[VapesXO]

You have put a lot of thought into it, and argue your points of contention solidly.

All of the products you are looking at, have their plus's and minus's. But honestly, you state that you are a beginner to this. If you kill an IStick in a day, you have way more going on than you're telling us.

Yeah, I've definitely put a lot of thought and time into this so far... Probably too much, because now I'm over-thinking it.

I'm a beginner, yes. I've never steadily and consistently Vaped before. I'd be using it purely as a means of curbing my sweet tooth and snack habits. I doubt I'd be able to kill an IStick in a day; the only thing stopping me from getting one right now is deciding between box and tube mods (tube looks better).

Damn dude, have you been up all night? Or are you in a different time zone?

I'm on the East Coast, but yes; I stayed up all night until about 10 AM researching this before I took a snooze for a few and then ran some errands.

On the 18350's. Since smaller is what I'm pushing towards these days. I get much better life off of them with a mechanical and rebuildable tank. I used 350 on itaste svd and zmax mini and the life was pretty bad.

Current setup is nemesis clone 350 mode and kayfun clone. I'm getting 3-5 hrs / battery on this set up. Oh... I'm using 30g kanthal at 1.4 ohm.

Aren't mechanical mods something I should stay away from at this point? I read the guide that NitroBex posted on how to get started and he doesn't recommend a mechanical mod for a beginner because of their complexity.

Don't try to over-think things. You will only hurt yourself

A Vamo V5 will fit nicely in your pocket. And so will a V6 (five more watts) in the 18350 short mode.

So will the Istick. So will a Hana clone (both of those with internal chargers but you can swap the battery out in the Hana if need be.

Extra 18350 batteries are easy to carry and you can even buy little plastic cases for them. Or just chuck them in an old prescription bottle like I do.

And people tend to forget this nice little mod, the Smok Groove 2.

http://www.madvapes.com/the-groove-2.html

Yeah, a VAMO V5 (or V6) wouldn't be too bad in my pocket in short mode. Carrying a couple of spare batteries with me wouldn't be hard, as I could keep them in my insulin case which is always with me. Charging them all the time could be a pain in the ass though if they take a while to charge.

I like the battery size of that Groove 2, but the reviews on it still aren't the greatest... There's a lot of mention of the buttons failing.

You keep talking about 18350 batteries. They are NOT going to last you unless you vape one drag less often than an hour. You DON'T want to fart around carrying batteries. The 18350's are a BAD idea. Just stick with something that uses a 18650 battery and be done with it.

And really, if money is an issue, vaping likely won't be for you. You will spend a hundred bucks on juice and likely will not use some of it and toss it. Tastes IS subjective. What sounds tasty may actually taste like chit.

Vaping something that tastes good, does NOT curb my hunger for something that tastes good.

How do people stand carrying a Vape running an 18650 in their pocket though? I measured; the VAMO V5 in 18650 mode with a Nautilus Mini is 8-3/8" long, which sticks out past the top of my pocket by 2-1/2 to 3" depending on the side it's on inside the pocket. It'd probably be catching on things.

Carrying spare batteries wouldn't be too bad; I carry my insulin with me anyways, which goes in a soft clamshell case that can also fit the batteries.

It's not necessarily that money is an issue... I just don't want to spend more than I have to on a setup that does more than what I need from it.

As for taste, I'm aware that everyone has different tastes, and I'll need to experiment until I find a juice I really like. I've read a ton of success stories about Vaping be able to suppress appetite and curb sweet tooth cravings though. It didn't work for you, but has for many others; it could for me.

 

[AmandaD]

Many people start their vaping journeys with simple ego setups. The Istick/mini Nautilus with bvc coils seems to me to be a slightly more updated equivalent. You should always have two in any event so that you have a backup, and the price on these is reasonable for a starter set. In my opinion of course

 

[mattallen]

Here is my Vamo V5 with the Nautilus Mini. Decent flavor, You can stack 2 18350 batteries, your amps will increase which is a good thing. However if you stack it is a wise decision to use them together always, and charge them together so they will be balanced.



Here is my Hammer clone with the Aspire Atlantis. This thing kicks ass for flavor



Juice quality makes a big difference, I have tried several brands and locally made juice. After reading this review of craft juices http://www.cigbuyer.com/top-craft-e-juice-liquid-companies/

I purchased the Mothers Milk from Suicide Bunny and the Gambit from 5 pawns and they are all they were well worth the price. Excellent juices.



If you are interested in the Hammer Clone check this out

https://www.ecigarettelobby.com/e-cigarette-sale/the-hammer.html

 

[freemind]

How do people stand carrying a Vape running an 18650 in their pocket though? I measured; the VAMO V5 in 18650 mode with a Nautilus Mini is 8-3/8" long, which sticks out past the top of my pocket by 2-1/2 to 3" depending on the side it's on inside the pocket. It'd probably be catching on things.

Carrying spare batteries wouldn't be too bad; I carry my insulin with me anyways, which goes in a soft clamshell case that can also fit the batteries.

It's not necessarily that money is an issue... I just don't want to spend more than I have to on a setup that does more than what I need from it.

As for taste, I'm aware that everyone has different tastes, and I'll need to experiment until I find a juice I really like. I've read a ton of success stories about Vaping be able to suppress appetite and curb sweet tooth cravings though. It didn't work for you, but has for many others; it could for me.

I carry a Sigelei 100 watt in my pocket all day. It's a dual 18650. On top, rests either a Kanger Aero V2 or a Billow RTA. The Sig is no bigger than a pack of smokes was. The Sig is more balanced to stand upright with a tank when set down. My worry with mini boxes is they will be top heavy and fall over much easier (like the Cloupor I am buying my wife).

I also have a few other box mods. Unregulated, regulated, tube mods, etc.

I WILL NOT carry a tube mod. No good way to carry it without it falling out of my shirt pocket. And a tube mod has no safeties that a VV/VW have.

IF you are bending over a bunch, you may want to look into a cell phone holder belt mounted, that you can repurpose to carry a box mod in.

Batteries really aren't all that expensive, and neither is an I2 intelli charger. A pair of batteries and a charger MAY cost you 30 bucks off Ebay. The tank though, will likely cost you about as much as a mod. Choose wisely.

A CHEAP fast setup would be a EGO style with a clearomizer tank. Then move forward from there. For someone not knowing what you want, or IF you even really want to vape long term, you might want to look there first. I would NOT normally recommend that, but since you are vaping for reasons OTHER than nicotine, maybe you want to consider that. It's a CHEAP start. AND they sell lanyards for them that you can keep it around your neck and under your shirt.

 

[mattallen]

I started with a pro tank II on a EVOD VV battery a little about 2 months ago, then bought an Spinner II battery and a Nautilus Mini. I was not happy and thought vaping just sucked. After hanging out at a shop and talking to a bunch of people I realized had I just spent the money on a MOD I would have been better off. With what I have now I can get into rebuildables.

 

[VapesXO]

What about the Sigelei ZMAX Mini? I found it on Vapor Beast for $24.97. It runs an 18350 and is just shy of 4" long (minus the tank). Carrying spare batteries won't be an issue for me. What's charging time like on the 18350 with a decent (Nitecore i2) charger?

 

[freemind]

It's a 15 watt device.......

 

[VapesXO]

It's a 15 watt device.......

...Okay? I'm not sure if you mean that to be a good thing or a bad thing.

 

[travanx]

My fiance is carrying an iStick and Lemo Drop to work at the hospital. The size is tiny and she brought it in her small clutch to a wedding. The thing with the iStick is you want 1ohm or higher coils. The iStick lasts her a day. Someone at her work gave her a hard time on why is she carrying a strong mod, Cloupor 30 at the time, with a non rebuildable tank. After a few different tanks the Drop is perfect in size and ended up being perfect with the iStick.

Forget the Vamo and smaller batteries, it won't last. And who wants to carry around spare batteries? The iStick is cheap enough to buy 2. Cloupor 30 is another good one and then all you need are 2 18650 batteries. For a battery charger there is always the Xtar MC1 One Slot mini.

Another easy solution is to buy a few shorter ego batteries (650mah) and top it with a Kanger mini type of tank.