Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Gunz Blazing 26650 mod



Today I'll be going over the Gunz Blazing mod. My good friend at www.smokenmist.com sent this over to me for review, and I've got to say, it's a damn good mod. Be sure to check it out, at 37.99, it is one of the best deals in vaping PERIOD.


Specifications


  • Heavy Duty 26650 Mechanical Mod
  • Comes with metal insert to fit all your 18650 batteries
  • Solid copper contact pins for maximum conductivity
  • Made from surgical grade aircraft 304 stainless steel
  • Ultra Low voltage drop
  • Unique styling that fits comfortably in your hand
  • Knurled Locking Ring with Beautifully Smooth Spring Loaded Switch
  • Machining is Amazing

Packaging

For a clone, the Gunz Blazing sports some of the sleekest packaging I've come across. It is delicately placed in a very nice protective box, embezzled with the logo. Inside the box is a felt liner, and the mod itself is stored in a huge, felt, grey mod sock. It is elegant, but simplistic; premium, however minimal. The sock is a great addition to a stellar piece, as you can carry it around knowing it is safely protected. Right out of the box, I'm impressed.






Build Quality

Okay, I'm going to go on record and say this is the best clone I have ever held in my hands,. Everything about it absolutely commands your attention, demanding that you admire it's wonderful craftsmanship, it's intricate but minimal design. Let's start by going over the main tube...it is a brick. This much stainless steel weighs a metric fuck ton, and I can safely say if you ever find yourself in a dire situation, fending off a would be attacker, one club to the head with this thing would probably render a person comatose. It has the sort of heft you come to expect from a well made product, something that when you hold in your hand, you know is of great quality.

The tube itself is similar to a panzer blackhawk with it's rigid threaded pattern and the "Gunz Blazing" logo in it's ornate glory adorned alongside tube. The logo is laser engraved, but it definitely looks like it'll withstand many, many handlings. I like that it has a familiar feel with an edgier take, as the panzer series is a personal favorite. Alongside the top cap, and just above the bottom cap, you will see some knurling, which is both attractive and functional when you're interchanging pieces.

The threads are the main tube are extremely well machined; so much so that I'd believe this was an authentic if you handed it to me. The top cap threads in and out without even a hint of resistance, and this was AFTER weeks of no thread lubrication. The switch slides in with comparable ease, offering piece of mind in knowing that the threads will hold up for ages.

The switch itself is nearly identical to the blackhawk, however it has knurled, which provides an easier grip when removing and reinstalling. The switch itself boasts solid copper contacts, which absolutely kicks ass - this thing hits like a monster. It is a spring loaded mod, the spring itself being ridiculously thick, no chintzy clone business here.

The top cap itself is knurled as well, featuring an adjustable copper contact. The contact threads in and out with ease, as does the switch, thanks to the wonderfully machined knurling. Each atomizer sat flush, with a few exceptions - the magma coming to mind, as well as doge.

Lastly, the gunz blazing includes an aluminum tube adapter that lets you use an 18650 battery instead of a 26650. I personally don't own any 26650s, so this is awesome addition. The adapter is solid alumimum, which slides into the main tube just like a battery would. It is a perfect fit with all 18650s I've thrown at it, and when the switch and top cap are adjusted accordingly, their is no noticeable battery rattle.

All in all, the Gunz Blazing is a premium mod, with a clones price tag. Unbeatable. Unfathomable, really. Seriously. This isn't biased, people. You've got to get your hands on it.

...........buuuuuut how does it perform?!

Performance

It hits like a truck on steroids. Aptly so, as it weighs nearly as much as a truck, constructed out of metal probably better than my last car was. Thanks to the solid copper contacts, their is little to no voltage drop, leading to some super serious, kick ass conductivity. Every atomizer I threw at this thing roared like a dragon outta hell, be it super sub ohm builds or your standard 1.0 ohm+ builds. It fits perfectly in the hand despite it's size and weight, of which is largely acceptable due to just how well it performs. This is my go-to mod when I'm not rockin my regulated
boxes, and it definitely holds up to my daily punishment. It fits nicely in my pocket and after a while, I started to not notice its weight. Plus, if somebody tried to rob me, I could totally give them a wicked concussion, so it's a win win situation.

Verdict

If you're in the market for meticulously well made device that can withstand abuse, be used in 18650/26650 mod, and hit like tyson, look no further. I have kept away from 26650s due to their size, but after a few weeks with the Gunz Blazing, one thing is clear...

SIZE DOES MATTER.

At 37.99, you can't go wrong, so do yourself a favor and PICK ONE UP TODAY!

Sunday, February 8, 2015

Stingray X




The Stingray X by Infinite is a bit of an old mod - despite being the latest revision of the stingray, it has aged considerably, perhaps surpassed by the latest and greatest currently on the market. I, for one, find it to be an oldie, but a goodie. At 43.99, it's one of the best deals you can get at MtBakerVapor. Let's get to the review!



SPECIFICATIONS 

  • 1:1 clone
  • 510 threading connection
  • Copper body wrapped with stainless steel
  • Copper top cap wrapped with stainless steel with floating pin and vent holes
  • Bottom magnetic firing button, the locking ring is NOT reverse-threaded
  • Silver plated copper battery contacts
  • Comes with a hybrid adapter and a 510 drip tip
  • Houses single 18650/18500/18350 battery (batteries sold separately)
  • 22mm external diameter
  • 18.5mm internal diameter





Packaging

This will be brief, as the Stingray X came packaged in a black box, with the infinite logo. Inside the package, was as follows

x1 Stainless Steep drip tip with copper accents
x1 Stingray X Mod
x1 Hybrid Adapter

I'd like to mention I got a "clone of a clone" last summer when this was the hottest mod on the market, and that came with a stylish gift bag with two compartments. The packaging isn't elegant, it isn't lavish, but it works. Rest assured your mod will come safely packaged, containing all the necessary components to function properly.

Build Quality

The Stingray X is constructed out of copper with a stainless steel plating. With this, you get all the conductivity of copper, but with the durability and appeal of stainless. The particular model I received is black coated, which is extraordinarily sleek and attractive in my opinion. The black finish is well done, and after nearly two weeks of consistent use, I have yet to observe chipping or any other deterioration in the paint.

The threads on the device are a bit on the crunchy side, and I would say this is a your mileage may vary problem. Stingrays, while proven workhorses, are notorious for quite a few kinks. This particular model has a bit of crunchiness when sections of the tube are threaded in, as well as the hybrid adapter. The hybrid adapter does require a bit of force to remove, so personally I'd recommend diligent maintenance on your threads to prevent seizing.

The copper used is rather thin, and exceptionally delicate - by now, you should know copper rarely serves a drop, but it goes without saying - please try to avoid dropping this. My previous stingray x dented from a foot or so drop onto carpet. Not to say that this particular model will, but I am not taking the chances. When you're interchanging tubes, or removing the button etc, try to do so on a level surface, like a table, or workspace, to ensure you do not drop it.

The hybrid cap is a great addition, but use caution - if you use it improperly, serious damage to your battery and person can occur. Ensure that EVERY atomizers 510 protudes beyond the threads of the device - if it is flush with the cap, or recessed, you will create a hard short. It is dangerous. Be warned. When used safely, hybrid caps are amazing. Direct to battery contact allows for near zero voltage drop ensuring optimal performance. The top cap, however, is just as good - featuring silver plated copper contacts. It is floating.

One of the best things about the stingray X is that the button was remarkably decent, and after a few weeks of super-sub ohm builds, the magnets still hold up fairly well. It can get a bit crunchy, and it is a little temperamental, but it is the nicest stingray button I've personally used (as far as clones go.) The throw can be adjusted short or long, it will usually fire regardless of finger placement, and it does not get stuck. I have always wanted to see heavy duty springs in the stingray, but unfortunately, magnets will have to do. Button assembly is simple and painless, and if you've used one stingray, you should know the ropes by now. Another plus is, of course, the stainless plated copper contacts. This thing is all around very conductive, and built well enough for daily use.

Performance

By now, you're probably wondering how does it perform. Well, I'm happy to say that it is a true workhorse, and a reasonable powerhouse. The benefit of a copper mod is ultra-conductivity, low voltage drop, and overall better performance than other materials on the market. Thankfully, with the X, you get the benefit of copper, and the added protection of stainless - the plating really sells the device, geared towards people who WANT the advantage of copper WITHOUT having a solid copper mod.

It hits like a freaking train. I know the expression is a tiresome one in the community (seriously, most mods will hit like a train given the right circumstances/quality of machining and material) but with the hybrid cap, copper contacts, and copper construction, it's hard to argue that this thing performs very, very well. It is my go-to device when I'm looking to super-sub ohm and chase clouds, but due to it's extraordinarily short profile, it is also the perfect stealth setup - in 18350 mode, it is barely taller than an 18650. Paired with an exceptionally small atomizer (the derringer anybody?!), you've got a killer combo that is ultra portable, ultra conductive, and wonderfully stealthy.


VERDICT

If you're in the market for a well made, conductive, all around great performing mod, you can't go wrong with the Stingray X. As long as you keep up routine maintenance, keep your threads and contacts clean, it should last quite a long time. It's a cloud machine, a work horse, a stealth setup, and all around a device that should be in any collection. I personally believe it to be the best clone MtBakerVapor currently stocks, and if you'd like to see more options in the future, pick it up today !

Monday, February 2, 2015

Sub Tank

Hello everybody! Today, I'll be sharing my thoughts on the Kanger SubTank that MtBakerVapor graciously gave me the opportunity to do so! Lets get to it!


The Kanger Sub Tank is KangerTechs answer to the Aspire Atlantis - sub-ohm capability in a clearomizer....but their's more. One thing the Atlantis lacks is a rebuidable section - something that the Sub Tank has, and executes well. Users have the option of using pre included coils ohming in at 0.5 and 1.2, or you can build your own coil, kayfun style. Many are wondering who came out on top - the Atlantis or the Kangertech. Personally, they both have their flaws, but one thing is sure - vaping is evolving, and the advancements we're seeing are pretty kickass. Let's go over the tank.


Kanger SUBTANK Clearomizer
Thread Type: 510
Tank Capacity: 6ml
RBA Capacity: 4.2ml
Tank Material: Glass tub and Stainless Steel


Packaging

What I like most about the packaging is  that this thing is packaged beautifully - immediately upon removing it from the envelope, I knew I had a quality piece of hardware. I wish I could show off the internals and how neatly everything was tucked away, but come on guys - I tore into this thing! The box is gigantic. Inside, you'll find

x1 Subtank
x1 0.5 ohm OCC (organic cotton coil)
x1 1.2 ohm OCC (organic cotton coil)
x1 RBA coil
x1 RBA connector
x1 1 screwdriver
x2 screws
x1 manual
AND some organic Japanese cotton!

To be brief, the contents are packaged securely, the manual is surprisingly well written, and the overall packaging just exudes quality.


Build Quality 

The Sub Tank is built like, well.. a tank. The 25mm version is pretty hefty, what with it being completely stainless steel. The tank boasts some incredibly thick pyrex, and although I'd advise you never drop it, something tells me it could withstand a fall or two better than previous KangerTech tanks. The upper glass is secured by a glaringly red o-ring, something you will love or completely hate. The bottom is secured by threading into the base which seats your coil, and personally I think these are some very, very well machined threads.

One slight drawback is that the base of the Sub Tank clocks in at 25mm - it will not sit flush on your standard 18650 modes, but it does look incredibly sleek on a majority of boxes, as well as 26650 mods. The 510 is spring loaded, and I recommend staying away from hybrid connections - I fried a battery by trying to use it in hybrid mode, and although it could have been a fluke, I will not be taking the chance again.

RTA top-portion

If you wish to use it in clearomizer mode, simply remove the base, and install your coil. If you wish to use it in RTA mode, you must unscrew the upper portion of the tank, and install the shorter version built to accompany the chimney and deck of the RTA section. The screws thread in and out easily, but they are pretty cheap - quality screwdrivers only. The included RTA section is than threaded into the same place you would install your coil. The RTA deck itself feels incredibly sturdy, with well machined juice wells. The chimney, however, is kind of thin for stainless - though I have yet to have a problem threading it, I'd recommend caution and a light hand - I can definitely see it seizing with too much force. I'd also like to mention that you should probably pickup some knurled screws, as I had very little success trapping wire thinner than 26g - the included screws are just too small.

One thing I would like to point out - and this is the only negative thing I have to say about the device - is that the included manufacturer coils are indeed chrome plated brass. It goes without saying it is a cost cutting method, entirely stainless steel coils just aren't practical - however for safety reasons, exercise caution. Brass may contain lead, and lead + acidic juice + high temperatures = not a good time. I was able to reveal the brass with a screw driver, but over the course of two weeks noticed no chips in the chrome otherwise. I would definitely recommend routine examination of your coil in between top ups, discarding it if you see any of the plating flaking off. Is it dangerous? Well, the studies aren't out, and we have yet to see ANY case of lead poisoning...but it's better to be safe, than sorry!


Performance (clearomizer)

The clearomizer mode is probably my favorite setting. Essentially, the concept is as simple any other bottom coil tank. You unscrew the base, fill up, and install your coil...similar to the pro tank 2, 3, aero tank, etc. Who would've thought that after getting into mechanicals and dripping, I'd find myself with a kanger tank?

Let me just say....it kicks ass. The clearomizer section holds 6ml of juice. It has three airflow settings, and although the widest setting is just a bit tighter than the Atlantis, it still can chuck some pretty impressive vapor. I found that even though air flow was a bit restricted, the flavor was out of this world - thanks to the organic cotton nestled inside the coil. It has an incredibly pure taste, so much so that I began to like juice I previously couldn't stand in other tanks!

I prefer the 1.2 ohm coil, at 22.5 watts it is a great balance of vapor and flavor production. I found that the 0.5 ohm had to be run at a similar setting, not able to handle much power. I managed to get a few burnt hits around 32-35 watts, so make sure to stay under 30. On the other side, it's great for those looking to conserve their battery, as it isn't as "power hungry" as the atlantis.

What I like most about the clearomizer setting is with such a large capacity, it is easy to fill it up and take it with you when you can't drip - running errands, driving, etc. This thing + my Cana 30w is a god send in traffic, saving me from every having to drip at a red light again! I love the fact that I can leave it in my car, hop it, and be good to vape. I'd also like to mention it has not yet leaked a DROP of e-liquid, something I was surprisingly impressed by.

To be perfecting honestly, this thing is revolutionary. To think that just last year, most of us were using the iClear 30, evod, pro tank 2, etc. It's remarkable how fast the industry has evolved!

Performance (RTA mode)

Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, the Sub Tank also capitalized on the RTA craze, providing a seperate deck that allows the user to build and install their own coils! It performs very similar to a Kayfun - the deck has a positive and negative terminal, with the coil leads being "trapped" under each wire. I will go out and say I absolutely hate building like this, it is a royal pain in the ass, but that's just me - I was never good at building kayfuns. Once you have your coil installed, you than feed your cotton through, saturate it, making sure not to block your juice channels. Than, you take the RTA "cover" and screw it atop the base - ensuring that no part of your coil touches it - and than install your chimney. In order to use the RTA base, you must remove the top section of the Sub Tank and install the smaller portion, which is as simply as unscrewing and screwing two screws. Essentially, this works works like so

Coil is installed, tank is full. Your wick rests above the wells, and as you vape, the positive pressure inside the tank changes, pulling juice to the wick. When you stop, the vacuum that you created pulls the liquid back to the tank. Essentially. I personally recommend you look up a video on proper building/wicking technique, as it can be tricky - with higher VG juice, I had trouble with dry hits. 

Fortunately (for me) this isn't a building tutorial - once I got a good build going (I personally found my favorite setup to be twisted 28g wire, 8 wrap, wicked with organic cotton) this thing performed as well, if not better, than any kayfun I've ever had. When you get it going, it wicks incredibly well, and dry hits become a thing of the past - though it is a lot easier if you use a 60/40 vg/pg juice, or 50/50 - it can struggle with max VG.

The flavor is incredibly robust, bringing out notes in juice I couldn't detect before. It does have restricted air flow, but I was able to comfortably do lung inhales without too much trouble. I did have to keep it wide open, as anything less was a bit uncomfortable for me. To those of you who enjoy the kayfun experience, you will feel right at home with the Sub Tank - it performs as you'd expect an RTA too, chucking out tons of flavor, and respectable clouds. I kind of wish it had a larger capacity, but honestly it wasn't too much of a hassle. Refilling is done by unscrewing the base, which is great, because I hate messing around with leaky fill ports. In RTA mode, it did leak once, but it was my fault - make absolutely SURE the screws that hold the top portion of the tank are completely secure, or you will loose pressure and have a bad time.

Overall, the subtank was a very pleasant surprise - Aspire shook the world up, but thanks to their vision, us consumers are subjected to innovation at nearly every corner, with the Sub Tank being at the fore front of just that. It's sleek, it's a quality device, and it isn't overly complicated. In clearomizer mode, it performs wonderfully, and in RTA mode it is equally impressive. I love that Kanger included the RTA base, as it provides a huge variety in one small package. I do wish that they would get rid of the damn brass, 'cause if they did, they'd have one of the absolute best pieces of vaping hardware on the market. Do I recommend a purchase? 

Are you looking for moderate airflow, great flavor, and respectable vapor from a clearomizer? 

Are you looking for a quality built tank?

Are you looking for something to use when you can't drip, something for when you're on the go?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, it's a no brainer - pick this thing up TODAY. Just please, PLEASE keep an eye on those coils - routinely inspect the chrome for chipping, and if it does, discard it. It may not hurt you, but it is better to not take the risk!

www.mtbakervapor.com has it in stock for 38.99, and you can use coupon code VAPOCALYTPIC for an additional 10% off. What are you waiting for?! GO GET ONE!