Vapor4Life Dial-A-Volt

Today I'll be going over the Dial-A-Volt Electronic Cigarette, sent out to me from Audrey at Vapor4Life. I have to say, even though it is a step back, it is a fine device to have around. I used it throughout the evening, even bringing it to work with me, in order to truly gauge it's functionality. I have to say, it is a solid beginner variable voltage device, and a great backup to have on hand. s get to it!

First, I'll list some of the specifications,

3.2-4.8v, user adjustable

Fits a wide range of 808 style cartomizers

Pen-like shape

650-1300mAH

5-6 hour charge time

8-10 hour usage

Let's get on to what I like about the device

• Packaging
  If you're an avid fan of this blog, you will know by now I am a total sucker for eloquently wrapped gear. The DAV is no slouch, as it arrives in a plush box, with each cartomizer, as well as charger, individually packaged and sealed. It is always nice to have a box like this around, even more so when you're frequently moving things out of your children's reach. It's comforting to know that if I do have to store this away, all of it's contents can return neatly to the nice box that it came in.
  
  Inside the box was a USB charger and three "smileomizers". The Smileomizers are in house cartos, and have exceeded expectations. They come in L, or XL, each offering 3.5ml and 6ml capacities, respectively. They can be filled around 12 times before needing to be replaced. They're low resistance and are managed to not infuriate me, something I must applaud. I have never had luck with cartomizers, but these managed to break the mold.
  
  Overall, the packaging treats it's contents like quality product, a very nice touch, and something I hope to see more often.


• Functionality
  The DAV operates as you would expect, yet it manages to go a bit beyond traditional beginner setups. With the ability to adjust the voltage, users can experiment with a wide range of settings. I prefer a cool vape, so I keep the device at a comfortable 4.1 volts. When paired with the included 808 cartomizers, I experienced great vapor production, which was actually a surprise. It is no cloud machine, however it manages to outperform my Kanger Evod starter kit. The voltage increments are sure to satisfy a multitude of users, offering cool to warm spectrum.

The device isn't 510 threaded, however it does accept a wide range of 808 cartomizers. I have been using the included "smiley" cartomizers and they're thus far, the best cartomizer I've used. They require little time to prime, produce a respectable amount of vapor, as well as completing deliver in the flavor department.

When fully assembled, it is rather sleek, and comforting to hold. Instead of gripping it like a traditional electronic cigarette, it is more comfortable treating it like a cig-a-like, resting it between your fingers. It is comfortable, and should appease those making the switch with it's striking similarity to actually holding a cigarette. It features a flat black matte finish, rather basic even, so don't expect the bell and whistle look.

It is slightly larger than your standard ego twist, but it fits comfortably in your pocket. I expected it to stick out quite a bit, however it is easily rectified by unscrewing the cartomizer and carrying both separately. Just make sure that you inspect the 808 connection for lint, as this can cause the battery to not fire.


As it stands, it is a solid introduction to the electronic cigarette. It is relatively hassle free and should satiate a newcomer for quite some time.

• Battery Life
  Not much to touch on here, but the battery life is quite solid. I have a tendency to chain vape, and coming off a full charge, this lasted me an entire night (about 8 hours), and I did use it quite heavily, so it is definitely worth noting. I've had trouble in the past with similar setups only lasting about 4 hours, and this was when I didn't vape as much as I do now. If you're having trouble finding something with a solid battery life, this is the definitive answer.
• Variable Voltage
  The staple of the product, variable voltage, an option I feel should come standard with every setup. Users can adjust between 3.2 to 4.8 volts, and what this does is change the vaping experience dramatically. A lower voltage vape produces less vapor, however it is cooler, and the flavor is a more noticeable. When the voltage is cranked up, you will experience a warmer vape, however you'll also notice an increase of vapor production. Keep in mind, the flavor does diminish slightly at the higher volts, but it isn't by a large margin.
  
  Variable Voltage should become an industry standard, as it affords the user the ability to craft their own vaping experience. Certain juice tastes better when you can experiment with the voltage, and some prefer the warm vape, and vice versa. Outside of a mechanical mod, I could never go back to a fixed voltage device, as it just isn't a satisfying endeavor.

I'm pleased to say that overall, I am completely satisfied with this product. It is a very well made starter kit, and I suspect it is a hit with all who have tried it. If you're in the market to make the switch, I would absolutely recommend stopping by vapor4life and picking up the DAV ecig starter kit. It comes with everything you need to get up and go, and when you pair that with variable voltage, stellar battery life, and wonderful juice, you've got all the makings for a happy vaper!

Questions? Comments? Feel free to get in touch by filling out the form to your right. I love hearing from new people. Follow me on google, join my circle, add me on facebook. You can never have too many friends!

As always, vape strong and live long!

PO3 Side filling Cartomizer Tank

Today,  I will be reviewing a side filling pyrex cartotank (dubbed the PO3) I received from thevaporbar, courtesy of Schell.  I will also review an assortment of juices, however that will be separate. Schell was an absolute pleasure to deal with, a personable woman who has a deep understanding and appreciation for the industry. I must say, it is great dealing with somebody who resonates with passion for her craft. Take a look at their storefront for a wide selection of tanks,  juice and accessories.

This tank is nothing short of a dream. The owner assured me that they are made by hand, which is a tremendous testament to its quality and workmanship.  It is a unique design, lending it’s likeliness to Texas Tuff Tanks, as well as IBTanked offerings. The cartotank is a simple concept. You take a typical cartomizer (xl, or L, slotted or punched) and fill it with liquid of your choosing. You then thread the cartomizer through the aluminum caps that hold the glass in place, fill up through a thumb screw located on the side of the pyrex, and enjoy!I will attach an instructional video that thevaporbar provides, as it is of  considerable detail and a foolproof walkthrough.

They’re offered in a variety of styles and color. You can purchase the economy tank, made of citrus and cinnamon resistant material at 10.99, complete with the sidescrew . They also offer premium PO3 tanks, up to the Pyrex Side filling PO3 tank, which is sold at 44.00. They also offer the pyrex tank without a screw.

With all that in mind, here is what I like!

• Build Quality

This thing is an absolute monster! Right off the bat, I was taken aback by the quality of the pyrex. If I have ever seen such a solid, well rounded hefty chunk of glass, it would be today. By nature, it isn't overbearing, however it is thicker than your standard glass tank. I respect the bulk as it offers a certain piece of mind. I treat my pyrex tanks like…well, glass, but with the PO3 tank, it sports a rugged and tough by design construction. Not to mention it holds a generous 5ml of juice! I sincerely believe it could withstand a drop or two, which can’t be said for a few other tanks on the market.

The aluminum caps that seal the pyrex in place are of equal craftsmanship; boasting strong, reliable seals. I was skeptical how it would come together without o-rings, but the seals fit like a glove, with no giveaway or wobble. I can confirm with absolute certainty that it is leak proof, which is a dream in it of itself. Now, what I did notice is that the aluminum cap that houses the end of the carto, or your  510 connection, is not 22mm in diameter. I believe it’s a hair under 23mm, which can be a potential setback to those who prefer a flush look when paired with a mechanical mod. I don’t mind, but this can be a deal breaker for some. 

The side screw feature is also done exceptionally well. The hole in the pyrex was machined very well, displaying no visible cracking, chipping, or uneven ridges. The screw itself is also a pleasure to use; it fits securely and screws in with little force required. A warm welcome, considering the force required in other tanks featuring the same fill up method. To fill is a breeze, simply tilt the tank on it’s side, (preferably) insert your needle cap and fill!

When you’re offered a hand crafted tank, the expectations are high. Not a lot of companies manufacture their own product, as it is an endeavor that could prove less than fruitful. I can honestly say my expectations were surpassed in every way imaginable. The tank retains its soul, its function, and it is definitely built to last.

• Ease of use

As the sum of it’s part become the whole, it is a relatively painless venture. Simply insert your cartomizer into the bottom aluminum cap, prime with juice, and attach the top aluminum cap. Add a drip tip of your choice, and you’re good to go. For those who have no experience filling a carto, much less working with one, this won’t be a crash course. I will however attach a link, in which Schell provides a very in depth walkthrough. 

Personally, I am not a fan of cartomizers, however this particular setup gave me little to no trouble.

Having trouble?

• Appearance

Assembled, I have to say, it is a very attractive tank. It is slightly larger than an aerotank, shorter than an aspire nautilus, yet nearly just as wide. As previously stated, it doesn’t fit the 22mm diameter a plethora of mechanical devices command, so it will not sit flush. However, it only sticks out a hair, and I find it quite unique atop a mod. When paired with a beauty ring, you can achieve a sleek, personable look. I really, really like the width to this tank, it is a chunky offering, yet it doesn't look obtrusive. Another plus is how well it fits in my pocket!

It's an eye catcher, and that is no understatement. When paired with your drip tip of choice, you'd be hard pressed finding a tank that can compete with the PO3 and it's stylistic offerings. The last thing I'd like to note is that it has no logo, no branding, of ANY KIND. I absolutely love this. It lets me feel like what I am using is truly one of a kind, without letting the entire world know

"Hey man, check me out. One of a kind over here..."

• The Vape

This tank vapes very, very well! Provided you have taken the proper steps in priming your carto, it absolutely chucks the vapor and provides a very satisfying flavor. I have it atop an MVP currently set to 4.1 watts and I have to say, it is almost a mini fog machine! Those expecting to truly taste their juice will be very well welcomed by the PO3. As a person so used to the flavor and production of their own coils and tank setup, it's a nice change to not have to adjust anything, or to yearn for just a bit more.

Now here is what I do not like

• Packaging

The PO3 tank arrived in a tiny cardboard box. To be perfectly honest, I was expecting something a bit more in line with the quality of the product itself. This doesn't mean I was expecting a grand box with a lock and key, however I felt that the tiny box left a little to be desired. For a hand built tank of such quality, it commands a certain level of pride. I know that the team is proud of this item; I just wish that it was packaged in a box that reflected this. A minor gripe, yet worth noting.

• Functionality

I can’t directly link this to the tank itself, but I believe I should share my insight. Despite the fact I got it working with little trouble, this is rarely, if ever, the case. Cartomizers are a pain, something the majority of the community can attest to. When they work, they work. When they don’t…they can be a bit of a nightmare. If it isn't properly primed and saturated, a fire can lead to a permanently burnt wick. Not to mention cartomizers simply do not offer the lifespan that a standard coil does, as dry burning isn't exactly an option. They can leak, and when they do, it’s a terrible mess. When they flood, it’s similar to a ship taking water. Obviously your mileage eill vary depending on what type of cartomizer you use, however I can only imagine what they could accomplish if they retained the build quality but offered it in a  bottom/top coil configuration.

Overall, it is a genuinely well made tank that lived up to every expectation I had. If you’re a fan of cartomizers, I wouldn’t hesitate snatching this up in a heartbeat. If you are a first time user, I would recommend acclimating yourself to a simpler offering before moving onto this tank. With a wide variety of options and color, as well as an overall solid performance, it is with a great pride I give this tank the vapocalyptic  STAMP of approval.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to fill out the box to your right and get in touch. Stay tuned for my review on thevaporbar's own line of juice! Vape strong, live long everybody.