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 !

Mutation X V2 Review

Hey everybody. Today, I'll be going over the Mutation X V2 atomizer by Indulgence. I got this from Jonathan at www.alluringvapors.com to review and I must say, it has been the only RDA in my rotation for going on two weeks!

The title says it all. The Mutation X V2 has successfully carved out all of my other RDAs, standing tall as the definite dripping experience. Let's go ahead and take a look at the specifications

Four post split design

SS construction

Top sink to disperse heat

Triangle torque screws

18 (!) airholes 

Wide bore delrin drip tip

Deep juice well

Original and AFFORDABLE

All in all, this thing is amazing. Let's break it down and go over each and every aspect of this beast.

- Deck

For those who own a plume veil or a CLT, you're in for a nice surprise. Instead of the tri-post design of the original mutation X, the v2 features a split, four post deck. This a nice addition to the already fantastic design, as it affords the user more room to build, as well as making center coils a very easy process. The negative posts are milled into the deck, and the split block is secured by a PEEK insulator and screw, just like many other RDAs. The posts themselves are very, very sturdy - I have not once noticed any indication of spinning, nor do I imagine I will.

Another cool feature is that the v2 features triangular torque screws. Initially I was skeptical, because I would need a new tool, and the traditional screws are easier to replace/locate in the size required. Fortunately, a torque screw came with the atomizer, and it seems very, very sturdy. I have done about six or seven builds so far, and the torque screwdriver is holding up just fine, as are the screws. I am beginning to wish that all RDAs featured these screws. They lock into place very easily, have yet to cut my wire, and do not back out over time as the posts and threads begin to wear down. I also believe that they will survive for quite some time, striped screws are a major pain in the ass, however I'm confident this won't be an issue.

The well itself is absolutely massive - deeper than the stillare, mephisto, patriot, and even the tobh. I would not say it is the deepest well I have ever used, but it is definitely near the top.

- Airflow

This is what made the original mutation a must have atomizer. Essentially, the original mutation was a tobh on steroids. It featured a similar deck, cap, and design. The V2 has successfully distanced itself from the tobh, turning itself into a standalone competitor. With the revolutionized deck, so comes the airflow. The original mutation featured 18 air holes, as does the V2, however the V2 now has the ability to run in single coil configuration. The AFC is accomplished by sliced blades that can block the holes accordingly. I personally do not see a reason to run the v2 in single coil mode, however I do know that plenty of people prefer to, so it is definitely nice to have the option. 

With the sliced blades comes a more powerful airflow, as it can effectively create a power vortex of vapor, if you will. The V2 is a fog machine, no doubt about it. I can fog up most of my apartment in about 15 minutes, so if you're looking to chase some serious clouds, the V2 is what you're looking for.

Included with the V2 is a wide bore delrin drip tip. It is definitely wider than your standard 510, I'd say if I had to eyeball it about half the size of a chuff. Delrin is comfortable to vape off, it does not get hot, nor will it get cold in the winter time like SS tips may. One thing I do not like about the DT is that because it is so large, the top cap can only accommodate it and it only. It is simply far to large to house a standard 510, and I have not found a compatible sized chuff (though for what it is worth, the clones of the V2 come packaged with a chuff style cap.) 

- Flavor

I'm going to come right out and say I did not expect this much flavor from the v2. The original, in my opinion, did not have a ton of flavor - it was meant for cloud chasing, and that is what it did best. The v2 however, perfects the combo. I get a TON of flavor and even more vapor. I believe it is because the inner diameter is larger than the original, and I can close off my air holes. Another nice improvement.

- Construction/Packaging

To be blunt, this thing is built well. It features 304 grade stainless steel, milled posts, a peek insulator, an ultra wide bore drip tip, heat sink cooling fins, and 18 airholes. The craftsmanship at it's price point (27.99) is astonishing, giving those who are teetering on clone or authentic an affordable option to pursue originality, affordability, and durability.

The packaging itself is a nice touch as well. It comes in a neatly wrapped gift box, and within the gift box are four replacement screws, replacement o-rings (for the deck and the drip tip) and a torque screw. I was glad to know that I had back up screws as I do not have any of these lying around.

Overall, the mutation X V2 is definitely worth it's price and at this point should be a staple in any vapors arsenal. If you're looking for a comfortable deck to build on, flavor, and more vapor than you know what to do with, you need to look into purchasing this monstrous RDA. For the low price of 27.99 you can own an original, authentic design, that works better than most clones on the market. Go ahead and stop by www.alluringvapors.com and pick yours up today! They come in black, copper, and stainless.

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you enjoyed the review. Stay tuned, big things are coming. I'll be reviewing the SLS M6 by Ameravape (clone) and the Aspire Atlantis. Shoutout to Jonathan @ www.alluringvapors.com, I also enjoy working with you and your generosity. 

Skeleton Key by HCIGAR

Today, I'll be covering the Skeleton Key clone by HCIGAR, provided by Aaron at www.smokenmist.com. It's a work of art, and I'd like to urge all my readers to stop over at www.smokenmist.com for affordable prices on a variety of mechanical mods, tanks, juice and rebuildables.

Before I start this review, I'd like to take a moment to speak to Marquis personally. Although I sincerely doubt that the creators of the authentic Skeleton Key will be reading this review in particular, I'd still like this point to somehow get across.  

The clone war will not stop, guys. Your legal team can threaten suppliers, vendors, and ebay sellers, (and rightfully so) but it is inevitable. Your device will continue to be copied, sold, and marketed with or without your patent(s) and trademark(s). As a company, I sincerely understand your objection - you have provided the community with a wonderful device, a device that contains your blood, sweat and tears - and it is being ripped from under you, and sold at a lower cost. Corners are being cut, manufacturing and QC processes aren't as strict as your manufacturing process might adhere to. While I do sympathize with you; know this. Your device IS a work of ART. You have created something so beautiful, so elegant, so profoundly efficient that it is hard to NOT clone it. With a clone available, your device can be in the hands of people who may otherwise never been able to afford something so exquisite, unique, and well made. Any publicity is good publicity, and I sincerely believe that a clone will find it's way into the hands of a user who very well may purchase the authentic - I know I will in the future, as I am impressed. Impressed enough to warrant spending 250.00+ on what is essentially a metal tube, a contact, and a switch.

The fact of the matter is, a large majority of the community simply cannot afford such a device, and while I would never, ever suggest a way to run your business or price your product, I would like you to see the other end of the spectrum- your innovative design is afforded the ability to find it's way into a larger niche of the market, something I personally find this to be invaluable - and I sincerely hope that those who own a clone of the Skeleton Key by Marquis take into consideration purchasing an authentic, as it is the only clone that has inspired me to do so personally. Feel free to email me at vapocalyptic@gmail.com if you see this message and would like to further discuss opinions and business practices, I'd love to hear from you.

With that said, the Skeleton Key by HCIGAR is a wonderful, wonderful mod, so much so I am hesitant to use it - it seems fitting that it remain on display, much like the authentic. Let's get onto the details and I'll share my thoughts.

CONSTRUCTION

- Brass 

- Three piece design (18650, 18350, 18490, and separate sleeve to use a kick)

- Telescopic silver contact pin

- Silver firing contact

- Unique locking mechanism - magnetic 360 lock ring allows it to be locked, and unlocked, with a 1/4th of a turn

- 510 connection

- 23 mm diameter

PROS

- Superior machining, boasting beautifully made threads that are buttery smooth at each juncture

- Low voltage drop, under load test showed about .23 drop

- Silver contacts that won't deteriorate and wear down like copper

- Deep, pronounced engravings, notably the Key - I doubt this is wearing off anytime soon

- Innovative lock ring that can be adjusted with just a 1/4 of a turn

CONS 

- Top caps are becoming a thing of the past - look at the 4NINE, Stingray X, Nemesis etc - the top cap is a bit gaudy and adds unnecessary length and weight, in it's absence you would notice a shorter profile and lower voltage drop

- 23 mm diameter, so not everything will sit flush

Design

In all honesty, I have yet to hold a mod as elegant as the Skeleton Key. Boasting a deep engraving on the main tube and quality laser engravings on the switch, it goes without saying that sometimes, simplicity is key. The device retains an aura of elegance without going overboard and employing a multitude of varying designs. The design was conceptualized with a hint of style and classiness, and it is safe to say HCIGAR managed to replicate this wonderfully. Pictures do not do the Skeleton Key justice - I had originally thought it to be too simplistic, lacking if you will. When it was in my hand, however, I could not help but be completely spellbound - intricacies of the engravings will captivate and amaze, even as a clone.

The mod itself is beautiful as well in brushed brass, and I can only imagine a natural patina will amplify it's antiquity and it's "days of old" inspirations. The top cap is notched, however it is is a bit too big for my taste - currently authentic owners are receiving improved flat caps. I would have liked to see HCIGAR wait and release their version with a hybrid / flat cap, but it isn't a deal breaker because the voltage drop is well within the acceptable range. A flat top cap would also afford a smaller profile - this thing is a bit big, not nearly as large as the king, though it definitely towers over my Fuhattan.

The switch, however, is something out of a dream - a cloners dream, if you will. Typically the clone community gets the short end of the stick when it comes to the switch. We have all dealt with the nightmare inducing nemesis switch, the endlessly crunchy stingray switch, and the infamous king switch. I would consider a top dollar purchase like the original just by the switch alone - it is that wonderful. I have had a ton of mods fire in my pocket, scorching my leg, decimating my high performance builds, so I find it extremely comforting to not have to worry about this ever happening.

The switch itself is brass, remaining quite conductive, however it is the design and innovation it exudes that makes me giddy with excitement. The switch itself is spring loaded, however the floating locking mechanism is magnetic. Not only does this afford trouble free operation, it also allows the Skeleton Key to be locked with just a 1/4t of a turn - I can lock, unlock, lock, unlock with just a flick of my finger, endlessly taunting my friends, who stand astonished in the inherent ease of it's  design.

Performance

Not only does the Skeleton Key marvel with it's articulate design and immaculate attention to detail, it also performs extremely well - I would go as far to say that it hands down trumps my entire collection. I ran a few different setups on it and compared them to my fuhattan

Skeleton Key with a Mephisto RDA - .4 dual coil

Skeleton Key with a Stillare V3  .2 dual coil

Skeleton Key with a Tugboat .8 twisted single coil

I tested each dripper on both the Manhattan and Skeleton key and hands down, the Skeleton Key put out denser, longer clouds than the fuhattan - a completely copper mod! Naysayers will have you believe that copper is the most conductive material to use although it is not. Silver is in fact the most electrically conductive metal. To think that HCIGAR managed to authenticate and implement high quality silver contacts at an affordable price is something out of a dream, I'd say. I absolutely love the telescopic contact feature - it is actually quite easy to adjust for battle rattle with just a few slight turns, and because it is a two piece design, I do not have to spend much time getting it right.

With that said, the Skeleton Key by HCIGAR is also surprisingly user friendly - I have been able to fire a variety of drippers without having to constant fiddle with the telescopic pin, or deal with battery rattle. I have yet to pair it with a tank or dripper that it refuses to fire - something I can't say for what is unfortunately quite a few mods in my collection.

Final thoughts

Without going off on a clone war tangent, I will just say this - I support the clone movement. I do prefer logoless designs, as I do not care for "made in the U.S.A" and 1:1 logo/design replications - imitation is the best form of flattery, but theft is always theft. I hope that the market comes to an agreement on the clone war soon, so that everybody can shut up and vape! After all, that's all we're trying to do, right?

With that said, the Skeleton Key by HCIGAR is hands down, the nicest clone on the market, at least in my experience. I would place this over the fuhattan, stingray x, nemesis, panzer, king, tree of life, caravela, stingray (in all it's incarnations), hades, etc - I have owned countless, and none of them stack up to the Skeleton key by HCIGAR.

It is well made. It is conductive as all hell. It hits like a turbo charged train. It has no noticeable construction or quality flaws. It has inspired me to purchase the authentic.

This is the real deal, folks. Shoutout to Aaaron at www.smokenmist.com he is a hell of a guy and a pleasure to do business with. Be sure to stop by and pick up a mod or some juice, his Strawberry Monroe a mothers milk killer - yes, I said that. Be sure to follow us on instagram @_vapocalyptic and @smokenmist.

PS: www.smokenmist.com has had to remove the Skeleton Key. If you're interested in purchasing the brass version for 34.99, please contact support@smokenmist.com. The copper version is 50.00. Thank you!

As always, vape strong and live long people.