Showing posts with label ecig reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ecig reviews. Show all posts

Sunday, July 26, 2015

Mutation V4 by Indulgence

Hello everybody! Today, I'll be going over the Mutation V4 by Indulgence, provided to me by SmokenMist



It seems the good guys at Indulgence are reinventing the wheel once again, with another reiteration of the ultra-popular Mutation RDA. The V4 has some awesome new additions, yet doesn't stray from the original design - it features a four post deck, 18 airholes on each side, adjustable airflow control and it's original, authentic, and affordable. Let's take at look at some quick specifications before we break it down.

  • 22mm Diameter
  • 304 SS construction
  • Diamond Airflow Holes
  • Bottom feed airflow holes routed underneath coils
  • Adjustable airflow control
  • 18 airholes (9 on each side)
  • 4 post design
  • Negative posts milled to deck
  • Deep juice well
  • Huge post holes



Well....whats new?!?


The Mutation V4 features an assortment of modifications, with the biggest being it's new, revolutionary airflow design. The 18 holes have been slightly modified this time around in the shape of a diamond, to encourage the vapor to form a sort of vortex, leading to a lot more flavor, and a lot more vapor. The V4 is the first in the Mutation line to feature bottom feed airflow holes, which are located on the upper part of the deck. When your coils are positioned directly over these airflow holes, air is pulled up and over the coil, leading to an increased vapor production. The V4 has a ton of airflow configuration settings, thanks to this new bottom-fed airflow design. It truly redefines versatility, as the V4 can be taken from a super subohm cloud chaser, to your daily flavor chaser. It does, in fact, do it all. Let's get to the review!


Packaging 

I have always been a fan of the Mutation V4 packaging. This RDA comes packaged in a nice little box, which contains the V4, some replacement o-rings, screws, and the blue screwdriver of screw stripping death. Inside, you'll also fine a 510 drip tip adapter, some plugs for the bottom airflow (if you can't figure out how to NOT OVER DRIP) and a nifty plastic extension piece. It's presentation is subtle, and somewhat minimal, but it's nice to have all this stuff when some authentic devices do not even come with a drip tip, much less a box. 


Quality

Outside of the very first Mutation, I have yet to be disappointed by Indulgence and their forthcoming iterations. The deck is constructed of 304 stainless steel, and it is machined incredibly well. The post holes are very clean, very large, and the posts themselves extremely rigid. The negative posts are milled into the deck, with the positive block secured by the 510 pin. I have thrown some pretty wire heavy builds in here, specifically a quad 22g (please use caution when trying builds like this, and be aware of your battery and device limits!) and double twisted 24g wire, and after plenty of torquing, I could not get the block to spin.

The O-rings on the base are incredibly snug, and the top cap slides on and off with extreme ease. The airflow control is machined just as well, however the end pieces of the blades are extremely sharp, so be cautious when doing cleaning this piece, as it can nick you if you aren't mindful. The drip is delrin, and wide bore - while not as huge as a chuff, or the V3s included drip tip, it still does a fantastic job of cooling the vapor, and pushing the clouds. The 510 adapter works as it should, allowing you to utilize a range of standard drip-tips, an option that wasn't available in previous versions(unless you purchased the adapter separately)

Overall, the Mutation V4 is what you'd come to expect from Indulgence - a solid, well built device, with features you'd see in an authentic, for a fraction of the price. It is still amazing that Indulgence is able to produce and sell these RDAs, which are in my opinion, best in class, for the price (sub-29.99). They continue to show the market that originality and affordability should NOT cost an arm and a leg.

Performance

This is where the V4 shines. Comparing it to previous versions, you can expect more of the same. Thanks to the wide bore tip and the 18 hole air flow configuration, the Mutation V4 reigns king in the airflow department. For all you cloud chasers, this is one RDA that belongs in your rotation - it is simply best in class

The Mutation has caught flack, however, due to the previous versions inability to really chase flavor. Indulgence has downsized the drip tip, and not only due to the slightly redesigned angular blades and now diamond shaped air flow holes, they have introduced bottom-airflow options. 

The bottom airflow is completely adjustable - below the coil are three holes, which when in use, pull air from underneath and than over the coil, leading to increased airflow. To adjust it, the outside of the deck features 3 holes, from big, medium, to small. Similar to how you would adjust the standard airflow, turning the top cap (not the airflow blades) can cut off the big hole, the small, the medium, or create a combination of both - for instance, for my flavor chasing build, I have 6 of the diamond holes closed, with half of the middle bottom
open, and the entire small hole open. This creates a tighter, more restrictive draw than can really utilize the bottom-airflow and vortex to create flavor that many thought the Mutation was unable to do!

Another nice addition is the optional plastic extension pieces. This see through extension is screwed into the base of the drip tip, and forms a bridge to speak, between the tip and the chamber. This creates a cooling affect for those of you who run very low, very hot sub-ohm builds. I have tested it with some of the hotter builds (quad 22g, looking at you) and while it doesn't completely negate any heat, it does cool it down to a very noticeable degree.

With that said, I have read people that people do have trouble with leaking. It's no surprise that the occasional oversight can lead to some extra juice finding it's way into the bottom airflow and seeping out at the base. I have found one very reliable way to combat this.

Don't overdrip. I know, captain obvious over here, but it is true. When you utilize the bottom air flow, dripping normally can lead to juice running off the wick and into the holes, coming out of the 510, or at the base. If you want to utilize the bottom airflow, instead of dripping as you normally would, you need to paint the wick. Drip alongside the cotton, but be mindful to not completely saturate the juice well. One way to combat this is by utilizing a "z" wick, (Thanks to whoever shared this on Reddit!) pictured below.



Simple, right? I have yet to suffer from anything other than the occasional leak due to dripping too much - something you can actually control, but it does happen. Another great way to prevent this is by utilizing the plugs found in the box - they are plastic pieces that plug up the bottom airflow. You do lose a lot of the versatility that the V4 offers, but it will allow you to run your standard builds, that you may or may not find leak more in the V4 than say, the V3.


Overall, I am impressed with the Mutation V4. It is everything I've come to expect from Indulgence with just the right amount of re-imagining. I'm a big fan of the bottom airflow, and the reduced bore drip trip, as I no longer have to swap out my Mutation when I want to utilize flavorful builds. I'd wager than not only is the Mutation V4 one of the most versatile RDAs on the market, but that you'd be hard pressed finding another one that is authentic, exceptionally well built, and downright affordable. The V4 is without a doubt a home run, and I expect nothing less from Indulgence.


Do yourself a favor and pick one up today from Smokenmist by following this link - I have scoured the internet, and at 24.75, this is got to be the best price on the market. 



Thank you for taking the time to read my review, and get in touch - I love hearing from my readers, and I'm always looking to improve my work, website, and everything in between. Stay vaping, people.


Saturday, July 25, 2015

Derringer RDA

Today, I'll be reviewing the Derring RDA, provided to me by www.MtBakerVapor.com. Let's take a look at this compact RDA, shall we?



Packaging

To be completely honest...this was the probably the biggest letdown. Instead of coming in a box, be it plastic, or display, the Derringer comes packaged in a tiny ziploc bag, with a hex key, a few Phillips screws, and the RDA itself. This isn't a knock on MBV, as I've read that this is how the v1.2 has been shipped out from pretty much everywhere. When you deal with authentic hardware, it's nice to feel that you purchased something worthy of the (often) heavy price tag - at 64.99, I expected a bit more than a plastic bag, but it's certainly not a deal breaker - just a let down. Also, Praxis....would it hurt to throw in a drip tip?! 

Build Quality

Now here is where authentic devices have a chance to shine! Immediately upon removing it from it's packaging, I was already floored- the Derringer is a looker, that's for sure. With it's ultra minimal design and incredibly compact form, this little RDA is definitely a stunner. I was initially skeptical, I had my doubts - I just couldn't get over the form factor. In person, however, it looks rather elegant, and when paired with similarly low profile mods, such as the Le Petit Gros in 18350 mode, it really shines.

The top cap sports the Praxis logo, and has a bit of heft to it. It's incredibly well machined, and slips on and off the deck with relative easy. The engravings are very well done, deep etchings, and they don't stand out - you know you have a Praxis product, but it's not shoved down your throat. It really adds to the minimal design. 

The Derringer sports a few airflow options, offering those who enjoy mouth to lung hits a ton of restrictive options, and for your lung hits, I'd say it is comparable to that of the Tobh. This is by no means a cloud chasing RDA, and to do so is downright foolish - while you can get some respectable clouds from higher gauge wire, anything super-sub ohm is just not fun. The condensed top cap and small frame lead to an extremely hot vape, if you're trying anything crazy. The inner barrel, which controls your air flow, is totally adjustable, and lets you dial in just what you want the Derringer to do - whether that be to flavor chase, or pull of some surprisingly impressive clouds (I found my go-to 7 wrap, 26g dual coil lead to fairly dense clouds, that were warm, but not blisteringly hot!)

The deck itself is incredibly well done as well. With such a small design, you'd be a fool to expect a deep juice well....right? While not nearly as deep as some of the other RDAs on the market (such as the Mutation X, Magma, Troll, etc) it is exceptional, size considered. I found myself not having to drip as often as I thought I would, but still more than I would normally. 

The deck itself is very well done, too. It features your standard three post design, and hex drive heads (When did this become a thing, and can it please stop?) The post holes are slotted, and while you may not be able to cram low gauge twisted builds into them, I was able to run dual 24g coils just fine. I've read online that the center-post tends to spin or wobble, and thankfully, after 8 or so builds, I've yet to deal with this issue. The deck can be a little tricky to build on if you're spoiled by easier to build RDAs, such as the Mutation and Plume Veil line, but it shortly becomes second nature after the initial period of adjustment...but maybe that's me, because frankly, I am no good at building on three post drippers....still...to this day!


The Derringer is constructed from US 303 Grade Stainless Steel, machined incredibly well, and all the interchangeable parts (AFC ring, barrel, top cap) come on and off with ease. I believe it retailed quite a bit more than it does currently (at) 64.99, and had I purchased it at the higher price point, I would've been satisfied with the craftsmanship. It is definitely what I'd come to expect from an authentic.


Functionality

Good construction and a respectable design can only take you so far - it must perform as well as it looks, right? In my honest opinion, in the right hands, this thing can generate INCREDIBLE flavor. The vortex airflow and condensed top cap can produce notes in a juice you either long forgot, or didn't know even existed - this is true, believe me. With the wrong build, however, the Derringer can turn into a fire chucking monster - not literally of course, but it puts off incredibly hot vapor. I prefer a warm vape, but I was able to get downright chest-caving coughing fits from this (my fault - please do NOT do a parallel 24g dual coil build. I warned you.....put that wire away!!) 

If you respect the design, and build to it's nature, you can get an incredibly satisfying experience from the Derringer. I guess you could say that about all RDAs, but the trend lately is versatility - in my upcoming Mutation V4 review, I'll be touching on how you can chase flavor, clouds, a combo of both, lung hit, mouth hit,... it is versatile. I wouldn't call the Derringer one dimensional, but I do personally believe your options are limited if you're looking to achieve the quality that it is capable of.


Overall, I believe 64.99 is a fantastic price for this wonderful, authentic, dripper. It deserves a place in everyone's rotation, be it as a daily driver, flavor chaser, or just a nice show-piece. You just can't top the sleekness when paired with an 18350, or small box mod. It's just too sexy.

Questions? Comments? Be sure to fill out the comment form, e-mail me. I like hearing what my readers think, and I am always looking to improve my work!




Disclaimer: The opinions contained in this review are those of the reviewer, and are in no way, shape or form to be used to endorse any other products or to defame the company by any means. The company, product and service names used in this web site are for identification purposes only. All hardware and liquid reviewed were provided for review purposes, and review purposes only. All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Any third party comments/reviews published on the site (whether edited or not) are third party information for which www.vapocalypticreviews.com takes no responsibility and disclaims all liability. 

Sunday, July 27, 2014

V4Vape eLiquid review

What's up everybody! Carlos is back, bringing it to you once again with another liquid review, thanks to V4Vape eLiquid and Nirvana Vapor! This is some premium juice, sure to cater to all you dessert lovin' junkies out there. Get on down to www.nirvanavapor.com and pick yourself up a bottle, or the entire line! This is some top notch juice. Don't forget to use coupon code V4V10off1time for 10% off your order!


6mg
50/50 PG/VG

Flavor: Pitched as a "decadent caramel flan with hints of hazelnut" this is no slouch people! The caramel permeates throughout the inhale and exhale; with the hazelnut taking a background to the powerful, creamy taste of caramel. It has a familiar custard taste, very creamy, with a slight hint of vanilla. Overall, it is an incredibly rich, complex flavor.
Aroma: Quite compelling; it smells like a slice of caramel flan, and you can even pick up the hazelnut hints. The smell lingers throughout the air, leaving a rich aroma behind.
Throat hit: At 6mg, you start to give way to throat hit, but I have a feeling this liquid is decidedly smooth to begin with. It isn't completely smooth, the hazelnut definitely has a kick, but compared to other liquids it is decidedly timid.
Overall: Color me pleased, this is a divine dessert liquid not to be missed by any custard/caramel fan. 5/5


6mg
50/50 PG/VG

Flavor: DAMN! This is pitched as a "toasted macaroon with brown sugar and cream" and I gotta say, this is a nutty, tasty treat. The almond taste is prolific, though it isn't a weird almond, to those who have had the lesser RY4's out there, you're in for a true-to-life almond taste. Layered throughout the liquid is decidedly pronounced sugar and whipped cream notes, coming together to form an inviting vape.
Aroma: Smells just like a bunch of almonds, drizzled in brown sugar and vanilla whipped cream.
Throat hit: Even at 6mg, this juice kicks like a mule! I love to throw this in my dripper of choice when I'm looking for that kick throughout the day.
Overall: Another stellar flavor. I'm not a fan of macaroon, I've had some juice that tasted like downright alcohol; this, however, manages to pull off the flavor profile with stunning ease. Another winner! 5/5


6mg
50/50 PG/VG

Flavor: Now this...is an interesting flavor. I'm definitely NOT a fan of floral liquid, and this is pitched as "condensed milk with rose essence and nutty tones!", so right off the bat I was leery. Much to my surprise, it is a pleasant vape, all things considered. The milky taste is semi sweet and thick, almost like a cream. The rose flavoring is, much to my satisfaction, sweet; though you do get that "wow, this is....uh...this taste's like a flower.." it isn't in your face, like eating a rose, it's actually somewhat sweet. I didn't pick up the nutty taste, but perhaps it'll come through in time.
Aroma: An innovative infusion of rose and condensed milk; I've got to say, it's a working combination.
Throat hit: This is a very mellow flavor, it is best to enjoy the taste, you won't find much of a kick here at all.
Overall: I initially thought I wouldn't be the biggest fan, yet I was pleasantly surprised. Though it is not something I would typically vape, I was able to enjoy it for what it was, much to my dismay that condensed milk, rose and nut could come together and actually mix wonderfully. The only thing I couldn't get past is the inherent floral taste, though sweeter than others, it will just never click with my palate. 3/5

6mg
50/50 PG/VG

Flavor: Um....let me be the first to ask that this be sold by the gallon, if possible. All I've got to say is wow. Pitched as a "vanilla custard with peppermint" this is in my top 3, that's for sure. The familiar taste of custard with a splash of peppermint blends together into almost a shamrock shake of sorts. The vanilla custard is smooth and sweet, and the peppermint is more "candy like" than straight menthol. They're right, it is sinful.
Aroma: Like a nice tall shamrock shake!
Throat hit: I found custard to be a smooth vape, however this does have peppermint, so expect the familiar kick of menthol even at low nic ratios.
Overall: Rock solid, guys. To those out there who are searching for a custard vape with a hint of peppermint, look no further. This liquid is to die for, and I would like to further reinstate that it needs to be offered by the gallon! 5/5

I had a lot of fun sampling the V4Vape line, a true premium juice from a company who has been nothing but a pleasure to deal with. Be sure to visit Nirvana Vapor, where you can purchase a 15ml bottle, 0-18mg, for the respectable price of USD 11.99. Also be sure to follow V4Vape on instagram, @v4vapeliquid. Thanks guys!

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Vape Strong and Live Long!

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Vapor4Life E-Liquid Review

In this review, I'll be going over the juice I received in my sample kit, thanks to Vapor4Life. I have to say, it was an absolute treat! Let's get to it!


50/50
12 MG
 Bottle: The e-liquid came packaged in a plastic bottle, standard fare at this point.
Throat Hit: Airy describes it best, a slight throat hit is present, but it doesn't pack a kick. It is in my experience that this is common practice with dessert liquid, almost alleviating itself from the picture to prevent compromising the flavor.
Aroma: Gooey caramel and chocolate, very lovely
Inhale: A delicate infusion of caramel and chocolate, reminiscent of the turtle candy. Completely true to form, not artificially sweet, or "candy" like.
Exhale: I caught hints of chocolate syrup, almond, with a light hit of caramel on the back end.
How it was vaped:  Out of a Kayfun Lite 3.1 with a 1.6 ohm coil and organic cotton, attached to an HCigar King Mech.

Overall:  Turtle Candy is a delightful experience, likening it's essence directly to the candy. The juice manages to perfect the combination of gooey caramel, chocolate syrup and almond, affording the taste of each flavor in every vape. The overall composition is very rich in flavor, but never overbearing or artificially sweet. If you're a fan of dessert liquid, this is an absolute must have, as it perfects turtle candy to the T. 5/5!


Grape
50/50
12 MG
 Bottle: The e-liquid came packaged in a plastic bottle, standard fare at this point.
Throat Hit: Again, not much of a kick. While it hits a bit harder than turtle candy, it is nothing to write home about.
Aroma: It smells like grape koolaid, which in my opinion is unfortunate. This is a very artificial scent, and in no way replicates the fruit feel.
Inhale: Sweet, sugary grape. At this point I came to the conclusion that it is probably meant to be candy like, as it does not have the mellow taste you'd expect from fruit replication. Though it wasn't bad, it wasn't that great either.
Exhale: The candy like taste begins to balance itself out, lessening on the exhale. Though it is still quite sweet, it is a bit more "fruit like" if you will.
How it was vaped:  Out of a Kayfun Lite 3.1 with a 1.6 ohm coil and organic cotton, attached to an MVP 2.0.

Overall:  Grape was a unique experience. I wouldn't call it bad, but I wouldn't call it a fruit juice either. Perhaps grape candy would fit it better, as it is sweeter than I would expect. Throughout my vaping career, I have yet to find a grape vapor juice that I like, but this is the first I didn't completely hate either. If you're searching for that semi-sweet, fresh grape feel, look elsewhere (and point me in the right direction.) If candy sweetness is your thing, this may be just what you're looking for. I can definitely vape it, but when it's gone I won't revisit another bottle. 3/5

It is always enamoring to receive something in the mail to review, and even better when you're truly enraptured with a particular item. Turtle Candy found it's way into the win column, and I'll definitely be back for more. It was a pleasure dealing with Vapor4Life, and I'd seriously consider getting over there and picking up a bottle of Turtle Candy if you're a huge dessert fan.

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!