Showing posts with label e cig reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label e cig reviews. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

MtBakerVapor Juice Review

Hello everybody! I'd like to apologize for my absence - I have had some computer trouble and have been left with mobile access only! With that out of the way however, today I'll be going over some new flavors from MtBakerVapor. I'd like to thank Michael for giving me the opportunity to review the new line!  Let's get to it!


3mg
Max VG


Overview: Vanishing Oatmeal Treats is a take on the traditional oatmeal raisin cookie. I have to say, I did have extremely high hopes for this particular juice - I love a good oatmeal raisin cookie. Right out of the mail, this particular liquid has a very sweet and spicy scent - not quite like cinnamon, but definitely packing a kick. I was a little hesitant to try it, considering the aroma was well removed from what I anticipated, however I found it to be an entirely different story when I actually vaped it.
Flavor: To be honest, it is surprisingly good! It has a hint of cookie dough, raisin, and a delicate cinnamon twist. The cinnamon is very, very faint, but I definitely taste it. Otherwise, it is the embodiment of it's inspiration - a true take on a oatmeal cookie! It succeeds where others have failed because, I think, it has the perfect blend - it is not too sweet, and it is not too fruity. Every flavor mixes together and somehow, they are all true middle ground - no particular flavor overpowers the other. I really enjoyed this juice.
4/5

Max VG

Overview: A tropical, fruity blend, definitely something that fruit flavor lovers will enjoy. It's an intricate mix, and by that I mean there is definitely a lot going on - it's nice to see such a complex flavor not fall through the cracks.
Flavor: It's kind of hard to describe what is going on here -  it's definitely a collection of fruits, I get a bit of orange, guava, and strawberry, with almost a hint of alcohol. This isn't a bad thing - I've had a few sex on the beach replications that manage to imitate that alcohol taste, without compromising the fruity flavor profile. If you're into fruity vapes, or a fan of tropical juices, this will be a definite ADV for some. Personally, it feels like too much is going on - I reserve this for when I do flavor-chasing builds, like twisted, or use my Nautilus Mini. Overall, not bad.
3/5

Apfelstrudel
3mg
Max VG

Overview: I heard Apple Strudel and the first thing to come to my mind was - please, please, PLEASE do NOT disappoint! If you have followed my blog since it's creation, you would know, by and far my first ADV was Green Apple from MtBakerVapor. It was everything about a green apple that I loved, and I would demolish bottle after bottle. So, needless to say, I had extremely high hopes...
Flavor: They were exceeded. I have had a LOT of different flavors from MBV, and this is easily one of the best they've ever made. You get the warm, gooey strudel crust, a hint of cinnamon, and a very delicious, organic apple taste. This is my new ADV, without a doubt - it has got to be the current pinnacle of my rotation! I plan on ordering a large bottle in the near future, and I urge all those who love dessert/apple juice PICK THIS UP. NOW. Don't wait!
5/5

Admiral Berry Crunch
3mg
Max VG

Overview: Admiral Berry Crunch is a take on the classic cereal we all know and love, Captain Crunch. It seems that the cereal flavor fanbase is growing strong - everybody and their mother are salivating over Cereal Killa. It's nice to see MBVs introduction to the cereal game and I'm happy to say - they nailed it!
Flavor: If you've had the cereal, you know what to expect. Admiral Berry Crunch manages to emulate the crunchy, sweet taste of corn cereal, and the fruity, equally sweet taste of berry. What impresses me the most is it tastes like actual cereal, not sweet, desserty fruit. It actually reminds me of the very first bite of cereal in the morning, and now I see why this particular flavor is in high demand - it's wonderful! As an added bonus, it smells EXTREMELY good - my room often smells like a box of captain crunch...who could complain about that?!
5/5

Cinnamon Munch
3mg
Max VG

Overview: Cinnamon Munch is another shot at the cereal juice, this time attempting to emulate cinnamon toast crunch. I, personally, was never a fan of the cereal - it is far too sweet for me, This particular juice however, is FANTASTIC! I really do not know what it is with the cereal flavor - I wish they had this kind of stuff when I started vaping.
Flavor: Cinnamon munch is sweet, spicy, and I can definitely see why adults love it. It manages to replicate everything you'd love about the cereal - from the slight taste of milk, to the bite of cinnamon, and the sweet, sugary crunch in every bite. This juice is phenomenal, really - all these flavors are. I am quite impressed with MBV, and I eagerly await to see what they do in the future.


There you have it, folks. Make sure to get over to www.mtbakervapor.com and pick up one of the flavors I reviewed, you will not be disappointed. You can use coupon code "VAPOCALYPTIC" at check out for a 10% discount. Vape strong and live long!

Monday, May 26, 2014

Magma by Infinite RDA

The good guys at 101vape sent me out a very lovely RDA, and I have to say I am impressed. The Magma by Infinite is an exceptionally well made clone, a definitive top of the line performer. Head on over to 101vape, they're in stock now but by all accounts they should be going quick!


                                  
The specifications 
304 grade surgical stainless steel
22mm diameter
dual direct to coil airflow
Air flow control (1mm, 2mm, 3mm)
no o-rings
dome chamber design
deep juice well (holds up to 40ml of juice, roughly 2ml)
two poles welded to the base for durability 


So let's get on to what I like!





  • Packaging
Not much to say here; but I do like divulging. The magma comes securely packaged in a nice box sporting the Infinite logo. Inside, you will find two pre-wrapped coils, two screws, a miniature screwdriver, and the magma itself. Keep in mind, this is an advanced device, so those who are new to the rebuild-able atomizer world will have to do their diligent research as no manual is provided.






  • Build quality
Now this is where the tank truly excels. First and foremost, it is a clone. The authentic version will run you upwards 110.00. I have had a chance to see an original, and I can attest to the fine tuned workmanship that went into the device. The clone is no differentThe threading is butter smooth; sure to propitiate the proprietors of the original. A very precise amount of detail was put into the machining, the domed top cap being a testament. When you consider the amount of work required in supplying such a clearance in a block of stainless steel, you can't help but appreciate the effort put forth. I'd like to note that the domed cap will accept a variety of  510 drip tips, the majority of which seat securely.

Another facet I simply adore is the juice well. It is quite deep, and the manufacturer specifications list it as holding roughly 2ml of juice, or around 40 drops. For a dripper, well topped off it leaks very, very little. Those who have experience dripping will know that certain designs can leak like a sieve. Thankfully, this isn't the case. Now even with the best of wicking material and coil build, it is quite possibly a minimal leak will happen. Exercise caution when threading your wick material within the juice well, and keep a close eye when you fill. The leaks I have experienced have been quite minimal and hardly worth noting.

This air flow control ring is removable and also manufactured quite well. It slides freely in either direction, locks into place when the dome is seated, and offers a range of air flow control. I'll touch more on this later, but I do like how it doesn't stick, and it the fact that it hasn't cross threaded on me (nor shows no sign of.) I also like the fact that the holes have been drilled nicely, which will eliminate the need to re drill to a better liking.

The posts are welded to the deck and not only does this offer better conductivity, it offers a bit more reliability when working with the small enclosure that is afforded. From what I can tell, the welding was done well and it shows no signs of slack, nor does it giveaway when twisting and pulling your coils in and out.

Overall, this is a very, very well made clone. With 1:1 configurations, it is typical some facet of the design can and usually will fall through, one way or another. I've built a variety of coil configurations, tweaked the airflow control diligently, tested the threading and tried it on a variety of devices. In a side by side comparison, it would be hard differentiating. Staying away from clone ethics, this is quite a sight to behold.

  • Appearance
    Another brief section, but this is a very sleek atomizer. The stainless steel construction paired with the MAGMA and PARADIGM logo compliment a stainless steel mod wonderfully. It is as if this RDA was built for the Tree of Life, as you can tell in the attached picture. Gorgeous.




  • FunctionalityNow we get down to brass tacks of the review. Any RDA can evince with style; captivate with ease. A well made product can suffer a multitude of faults that compromise it's commendable structural integrity. I'm happy to say that this RDA functions as well as it looks, if not better.

First thing I would like to talk about is the air flow ring. The airflow ring is free spinning, however it has to be locked into place. When the top cap is removed and the air flow control ring has been inserted, the top cap must be screwed down to lock it into place. When this is complete, the ring will not budge. Now in order to alternate between diameters, you have to lightly unscrew the top cap, backing off just a touch. I've had trouble coming to terms with airflow control rings that can spin freely in my pocket; this is not an issue here. The airflow control ring offers 1, 2, and 3mm diameter  configurations. I settle on three, because I prefer an airy draw. However 1 and 2 are also quite comfortable to use, as I find that 2 maximizes the flavor profile, and 1 replicates a very tight draw. The airflow ring also allows you to set it up in either a dual coil or single coil configuration.

The next thing I'd like to speak about is the juice resevoir. As I previously mentioned, it is generous in size, more-so than your traditional RDA. The surrounding walls do provide a tight enclosure, so caution must be made when filling as to not to overfill or waste any juice.  It is in my experience that a variety of wicks sit comfortably within the well (something a lot of people prefer not to do) and I have yet to experience any gurgling, of any kind. Alongside the outer ridge of the well, you will notice two holes, your airflow intake. The overall design is very intuitive, as every coil configuration you make should sit directly above these holes. This maximizes airflow, sufficiently allowing air to pass through the coil as intended.

Now with the magma, you can only work with two posts, so this might be off putting to those who are fond of intricate coil designs. I myself run it dual coil most of the time and have had no trouble installing a .5 ohm dual coil, using 30g kanthal and cotton. I like that the posts are secure and a good distance above the air flow holes. Due to it's nature, the welding provides an additional layer of stability as well as security when working on the deck. The aforementioned screws fit snug and secure, however they are incredibly small so keep on a close eye on them when you're working on a new build.

The domed top cap provides a vape I have yet to experience; as it fills with smoke it puts out a distinctively unique draw. It is hard to explain, but instead of your typical "sucking" it is as if you can tell that the air is spinning around. I found it difficult going back to standard atomizers, due to this unique offering.

Due to the posts being welded, attaching coil configurations is a breeze. I have hard trouble in the past with various devices, yet I am able to recoil this within seconds. It is nice knowing that if I am in a pinch and have the tools handy I can bust out a nice coil without sinking too much time or effort into the affair.

This RDA is 22mm in diameter so it is a flush fit on a majority of mechs.



  •  Performance
    This RDA affords me a luxury I did not think possible. Without a doubt it is as close to providing a "perfect" vape, both in it's function and performance. My standard build is a .5 ohm 30g kanthal dual coil configuration. After I installed my coil of choice, set the airflow to 3mm, threaded the top cap and installed I was blown away.The flavor production is IMPECCABLE. So much so that I was tempted to rewick it and try out every juice I own! I was even inclined to drip juice I do not like, just to see if I could get a better profile. With coils that sit above the airflow holes, as well as a domed top cap, it provides a performance you will be hard pressed finding elsewhere. The way the vapor converges in the dome leads to entirely different experience; I truly believe today was the first day I have ever TASTED MY JUICE! It is worth noting that I retain the same reception running a single coil configuration, so to all those out there who prefer that, have a go! It is truly second to none, I say this as a variety of tanks sit on my desk. Sit in shame, I say! You can keep your kayfuns, your patriots, your nautilus, your aerotanks, just leave me my MAGMA.

    Alongside the wondrous flavor, I was also anticipating quite a plume of vapor. This should be expected at the sub ohm level, and this RDA delivered. A three second draw was almost debilitating, I would not recommend taking a direct lung hit. As my lips broke away and my eyes focused to the cloud before me, I was giddy with glee.

    Now to those out that who do not subo hm, I was also able to achieve noteworthy performance using a 1.5ohm dual coil, as well as 1.5 ohm single micro coil. Though the vapor production is decidedly less, the flavor production does not falter whatsoever. I would definitely recommend this dripper to those who shy away from coiling building, as I'll admit I saw very little point when deviating from the sub ohm realm. Thankfully the magma corrected my poor perception, and I believe it will entice others with it's wide range of capability. 

Now, I will get on to what I do not like

  •  510 connection length
    The 510 post is incredibly long, and unfortunately can give trouble in mechanical mod pairing. I personally do not own a mod that has a problem with it, however I do know that the caravela requires quite a bit of adjustment, and that the nemesis suffers from a very slight gap. I presume this will be an issue with those who have an extensive assortment of mods, so it is best pairing it with something befitting.
  • Dome cap juice pools
    When you use a wick that is within close proximity to the domed cap, juice can condensate within it's walls. I find that this can also happen if you lay your RDA on it's side, or constantly change it's positioning. When this happens, the juice has a tendency to funnel down into the decks air flow openings and leaking outside the airflow control ring. It can also leak when removed, dripping all over the ring and down the side of your device.
Overall, I am impressed overall. The Magma Paradigm, cloned by Infinite, boasts superior craftsmanship, innovative design, and delivers divine flavor production and sizable clouds of vapor. I am in the process of phasing out numerous tank systems, anticipating another Magma purchase or two. I would like to thank 101vape for giving me the opportunity to review the device, and as well as the creators of the Magma. It was a pleasure working alongside 101vape and I will continue to throw copious amounts of money at them. 

Questions or concerns? Feel free to fill out the box to your right or add me on facebook. I'd love to hear back from the community. You can also follow me on twitter @_vapocalyptic, or find me on the electronic-cigarette-forum, @vapocalyptic. As always, vape strong and live long! 

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Kamry K100

Today, I'll be reviewing the Kamry K100 mechanical mod kit. The good guys at 101vape had it in stock at the very affordable price of 29.99, plus shipping. Overall a great company to do business with. You can expect lightning quick shipping and personable customer service. 





The kamry k100 was my initial foray into mechanical mods. It has an affordable price tag, comes with batteries and a charger, and has generally positive reviews. Initially I was a fan, but after using other equipment, it seems to be an entry level device and nothing more. 

The Kamry K100 is a telescoping fully mechanical mod. It supports 18650, 18490, and 18350 batteries. Due to its telescopic nature, it can support a kick. It is constructed of stainless steel and sports a very bland decision, one that has no engravings or etchings. This could be appeal to some, but I prefer a bit more personalization. It has a 510 connection surrounded by an evod cone well, which is nice because it will support a wide variety of clearomizers-glassomizers. 

What I like about the Kamry K100


  • Affordability
    You cannot argue with a 29.99 price tag, even if it's contents (such as batteries and charger) are of a lower quality. Outside of an m16 clone, you'd be hard priced finding a mech mod state side with such an attractive price. 

  • Ease of use
     The connector is a standard 510 to ego, so there isn't a need to adjust a center pin. The switch is spring loaded and fairly strong, eliminating the need for a magnetic upgrade. 

  • BUILD QUALITY.
    If you're a fan of stainless, you'll appreciate the heft this mod affords. It has a lot of weight behind it and feels sturdy. Outside of that, I do have a few gripes with the build,  leading to.. 


What I do not like about the Kamry K100


  • Bulky
    In my opinion it is unnecessarily bulky. It doesn't slide in and out of my pockets. It is fairly heavy to be carrying around all day. 


  • Telescopic threading
     I am not a fan of telescoping, due to its strenuous nature. As this is a clone of the Empire mod, it doesn't sport superior craftsmanship. This is soon apparent if you frequently switch from 18650 to 18350. The threading feels delicate and I noticed a bit more crunchiness than I'm comfortable dealing with. This could be a deal breaker for those who constantly switch out batteries. 


  • Reverse threading lock ring
    Again, I am no fan of this particular design. The k100 in particular seems prone to cross threading. I have had the locking ring cross threaded and, in most cases, a new switch is required. In order to avoid this, I'd recommend particular caution locking and unlocking this mod. With just a bit more force than normal you may find yourself unable to lock, or unlock,  your mod. 


  • Packaging contents 
    As the saying goes, you get what you pay for, and the k100 kit is a prime example. The batteries are kamry branded IMRs. I believe they're rejects, rewrapped with the manufacturer logo. With mechanical mods, you do not want to skimp on battery quality. I personally would only recommended using these in a pinch, if at all. The included charger is of poor quality as well. It has no instructions, so users will have to troubleshoot it via the Internet. It takes hours to charge, and after only three uses, it completely quit working. I have also read reports and heard first hand it has overcharged batteries, as well as overheated during a charge, both serious issues. The included cartomizers are poor as well. They leak profusely, as well as produce burnt tasting hits. I have had no luck with them. 

Overall, I would advise those interested to explore another Avenue. Save for a higher quality mod, or pick up a similarly priced Nemesis clone. The Kamry is functional, it is inviting, but it is a one trick pony. If you're on a tight budget, it may serve your needs, but it is my personal opinion that an upgrade will be desired shortly. 

If you absolutely decide you would like the k100, I'd recommend purchasing just the mod. You do not need the batteries or charger, and you may find a better price point. 

The K100, unfortunately, does not get the vapocalyptic STAMP of approval. 

Hcigar Stingray

I'd like to share my thoughts on what is, in my opinion, an incredibly well made mech mod clone by Hcigar. I'd like to avoid the semantics surrounding clones vs authentic. I do not inherently condone plagarisim, but I do respect the need to budget, and in the end, what matters, is PEOPLE QUIT SMOKING. Now that I've got that out of the way... I'd like to present the Hcigar Stringray!






I picked this beautiful mod up at ECIGGITY, a well respected company based out in Hawaii, for the incredible price of 44.99 (use code 10percentoff for 10 percent discount) plus shipping, and couldn't be happier. I live in Arizona and the shipping was prompt. Initially I had trouble with my switch, an unfortunate HCigar quality control issue, however eciggity was extremely prompt in responding and sending out a replacement. Top notch service.


I love this mod. It is in my hand all day, every day, alongside whichever 510 tank I use. I can say with total conviction that I will never give this one up. So, let's get on and find out why it earns the vapocalytic STAMP of approval!



  • Build quality
    For a clone, this beast is machined so well, you would be hard pressed distinguishing it from the original. Each and every thread is as smooth as butter, even before the typically necessary isopropyl alcohol rubdown. Straight out the box, each tube, as well as connector and switch thread on without so much as a twitch of resistance. It is entirely 100% brass, a very conductive and lustrous metal.  For those who are tired of struggling with voltage drop, you will notice an incredibly small drop with this mechanical mod. It is form and functionality, perfected. The laser engraving is deep but not obtrusive, aesthetically pleasing, and well detailed. The switch and firing pins are also silver plated copper. This is amazing, as previously stated, because of the superior conductivity it provides. Another plus is a floating 510 pin. It will automatically adjust to your atomizer, eliminating the need to readjust it. This is invaluable because it supports a wide variety of batteries, 510 atomizers, as well as the capability of kicking it in 18500, 18490, and 18650 mode! Keep in mind, if you plan to use EGO cone devices, you will need a 510 to EGO adapter. The atomizer connection is also 22mm in diameter, so tank's such as the Mini Protank 2 and Kanger Aerotank will not sit flush. User preference, entirely.

  • Ventilation
    This is a very important aspect to any mechanical mod. Without asking you to take a seat for batteries 101, you want a mod that affords the user an ample amount of ventilation in case  thermal runaway occurs. The vents are created by spaces left between the brass and steel, as well as accentuating the firing switch. I feel extremely comfortable knowing a potential thermal runaway will not go unnoticed.

  • Magnetic switch
    Nemesis owners will be glad to know that the included switch is magnetic. In my opinion, I feel that the magnets are a bit on the weak side, but it is all a user preference. A lot of people have complained that the button has an atypical crunch. This is true, but an easily rectified problem. As with all clones, you should give it a through cleaning before use, as machine oil can and usually will be left on the threading. An initial disassemble followed by a nice isopropyl bath leads to a smooth switch with a very sensitive throw.

Overall, it is an invaluable mech to my growing collection. I do not see it leaving my rotation, nor being replaced anytime soon. If you're in the market for a well made clone, look no further than the Stingray by Hcigar!

As always, you can pick it up for 44.99 + SHIPPING at Eciggity. You can't put a price on superior customer service!