Future E-Cig user needing some info

[Covert24]

Hello all! My name is Billy and I am looking to switch from "analogs", as you guys call it, to E-Cigs. I've smoked since I was about 14 (Now 21) so about 7 years in the making. My personal preference as far as regulars go is Marlboro Menthols and if the store is out of those I go with Newport menthols (Neither being the 100s). I've been thinking about making the drastic switch for a while but some bad news I received from my Mom and Grandma has persuaded me into really considering. 2 of my uncles have developed lung cancer, one of which has smoked for most of his life and the other has never smoked to my knowledge. Unfortunately they are both in Stage 4 and were given 6 months at the very best. Besides that, my family history doesn't depict the healthiest bunch of people so I think its about time for me to start changing my habits for the better.

Now that the backstory is out of the way, I would like to see some information on where I should start my journey into electronic cigs. There's a slew of different manufacturers to say the least as well as variations in how the device actually works/fluid vs prefilled/different voltages etc. I've read through some of the "New user" FAQ and although it cleared up a few odds and ends questions I had, it didn't really put me in the right direction.

I would like to stick with something that resembles an actual cigarette so either the 808 or 502(?) Would probably be my preferred platform. Also, I would love to find some info in regards to buying fluid and filling the cartridges myself vs buying prefilled. Is there a big cost difference or does it really work out to about the same? I smoke about 3/4 pack a day of either of the above mentioned cigarettes sometimes more along the 1 pack range so my next question would be nicotine content. I've read a few posts here that say most people say start out either 18mg or 12mg and then buy a 0mg as well for mixing purposes.

I look forward to hearing back from you guys!!
So many questions so little time.... Someone start me off right!

Thanks,
-Billy

 

[qorax]

...I would like to see some information on where I should start my journey into electronic cigs. There's a slew of different manufacturers... fluid vs prefilled/different voltages etc... I would like to stick with something that resembles an actual cigarette so either the 808 or 502(?) Would probably be my preferred platform... I smoke about 3/4 pack a day... start out either 18mg or 12mg and then buy a 0mg as well for mixing purposes.

I look forward to hearing back from you guys!!
So many questions so little time.... Someone start me off right!

Hi,

Welcome to ECF!
U've come to the right place and also have taken the correct decision to QUIT.

Yes, for a new-vaper, going the Cig-a-Like's way is usually the norm... many of us started that way. I'd seriously suggest u pick-up the Joyetech eRoll and u'd thank me forever. To read more on it pls click the review in my signature.

Happy vaping!

 

[SilverCloud]

Hi Billy,

Congrats on your decision to quit, that's a wise move on your part IMO. It sounds like your family history has cancer in the genetics, just like mine does. My Father died at 52 with a very aggressive form of lung, bladder and stomach cancer from smoking filterless PallMalls for 35 years. It's truly got to be one of the most miserable ways to go that I've ever seen. He was fine one year....and gone the next And now at 47, I've been ciggy-free for 43 days....and don't miss them one bit! Indeed, the "lookalikes" are the first chosen route by many who quit smoking. But don't be surprised if you eventually start getting into more advanced e-cigs. It happens to the best of us!

Vape well,

Bri

 

[Renzuli]

Well Welcome Billy , But you are right to stop the smoking , before it affects your health . There are lots of stickies to read here on the forum , pertaining to how to start , what to use , etc . There are also lots of video's on YouTube , by some e-cig reviewers , such as Grimgreen , PBusardo , as well as a bunch more . Probably the best advice I can give you , is to avoid the so -called " free "" offers . They are far from free . Don't buy anything from the mall , 7/11 , or gas station . It's all overpriced , and besides that , it's junk . Stick with reputable vendors ( there is a list of forum approved vendor , on the start page . Good place to start . If you call some of them , or email , they can point you in the right direction . It really all depends on how much you want to spend to get started . You should be able to get a low end kit , or some Ego's , or clones , some atomizers , and / cartomizers , as well as some juice . Try just getting some sample size juice at first , till yo find what you like . Good luck , and if you have any other question . Don't hesitate to ask . Someone here , will jump on and help you out .

 

[chimsweep]

Well Welcome Billy , But you are right to stop the smoking , before it affects your health . There are lots of stickies to read here on the forum , pertaining to how to start , what to use , etc . There are also lots of video's on YouTube , by some e-cig reviewers , such as Grimgreen , PBusardo , as well as a bunch more . Probably the best advice I can give you , is to avoid the so -called " free "" offers . They are far from free . Don't buy anything from the mall , 7/11 , or gas station . It's all overpriced , and besides that , it's junk . Stick with reputable vendors ( there is a list of forum approved vendor , on the start page . Good place to start . If you call some of them , or email , they can point you in the right direction . It really all depends on how much you want to spend to get started . You should be able to get a low end kit , or some Ego's , or clones , some atomizers , and / cartomizers , as well as some juice . Try just getting some sample size juice at first , till yo find what you like . Good luck , and if you have any other question . Don't hesitate to ask . Someone here , will jump on and help you out .

{edit} .....and Billy, I have sympathy for your families health. It's a lot easier when it's someone else, but it happens to someone every hour. Take a leap of faith and travel down the road a bit, at your age you will be grateful that you made the decision. Good luck

 

[evan le'garde]

Hello all! My name is Billy and I am looking to switch from "analogs", as you guys call it, to E-Cigs. I've smoked since I was about 14 (Now 21) so about 7 years in the making. My personal preference as far as regulars go is Marlboro Menthols and if the store is out of those I go with Newport menthols (Neither being the 100s). I've been thinking about making the drastic switch for a while but some bad news I received from my Mom and Grandma has persuaded me into really considering. 2 of my uncles have developed lung cancer, one of which has smoked for most of his life and the other has never smoked to my knowledge. Unfortunately they are both in Stage 4 and were given 6 months at the very best. Besides that, my family history doesn't depict the healthiest bunch of people so I think its about time for me to start changing my habits for the better.

Now that the backstory is out of the way, I would like to see some information on where I should start my journey into electronic cigs. There's a slew of different manufacturers to say the least as well as variations in how the device actually works/fluid vs prefilled/different voltages etc. I've read through some of the "New user" FAQ and although it cleared up a few odds and ends questions I had, it didn't really put me in the right direction.

I would like to stick with something that resembles an actual cigarette so either the 808 or 502(?) Would probably be my preferred platform. Also, I would love to find some info in regards to buying fluid and filling the cartridges myself vs buying prefilled. Is there a big cost difference or does it really work out to about the same? I smoke about 3/4 pack a day of either of the above mentioned cigarettes sometimes more along the 1 pack range so my next question would be nicotine content. I've read a few posts here that say most people say start out either 18mg or 12mg and then buy a 0mg as well for mixing purposes.

I look forward to hearing back from you guys!!
So many questions so little time.... Someone start me off right!

Thanks,
-Billy

Sorry to hear about your relatives.

 

[Covert24]

Pheeww!! Thought my thread got deleted or something but realized it was pushed back a page due to all the new posts. Extremely active forum that's for sure!!


I appreciate all the responses regarding my family. Its never fun losing loved ones regardless if you are close or not. The way I think about it is a lesson to learn from. There's a countless number of people in my family that used to smoke but have been clean for decades. My goal is to be completely free of cigarettes and if at all possible, nicotine as a whole. On top of all of this I have an irregular heartbeat (heart murmor) that I was born with. I usually get heart palpations on a regular basis and I'm hoping to minimize this as much as possible.


I will definieteoy take a look at the eroll. As far as I have researched, refillable seem to be the best/most cost-efficent route and will give me as much freedom as possible. The "V4L" vendor of this website has some neat stuff as well. Was looking at the "Tanks" they stock and would love to not have to refill multiple times a day. But like many of you have mentioned, getting a starter kit is probably the best way to go as far as my first purchase goes and will look into a few of the reputable vendors of this website and "Choose My Weapon"

 

[Uncle]

Hi and Welcome to the ECF Community . . .

You will probably be bombarded with different suggestions what to buy and not buy . . . I went through the same thing when I started . . . However, like you stated that "You" wanted and needed a cigarette looking and feel device to begin with, so did I . . . SO - With that in mind and staying with what you asked, there are 2 different companies that I would suggest that sell KR808 style "eCig's" for you to consider and do some more research on, especially given the differences in pricing . . .

Smokeless Image - "Volt" and Halo's - "G6"

Both are cigarette style's that do work for many people, especially when they start out and some people even still continue to uses them - like "Me" . . . You can also find may different Videos on "You Tube" that discuss these both, however I suggest loooking at those by "SteelJan" (A Great Lady, that knows her stuff) . . .Hope this information helps . . .

Good Luck with your "Transition into the World of Vaping"

 

[rotku]

Congrats on the decision to change you habit. Although you say you would prefer the look-a-likes, many do, I will also suggest some additional stuff. First you could get a 510 starter kit. Here is one that is easy on the budget but is very basic.
Cheapest Ecig Starter Kit| Beginners e-cig
Here is one that is a bit better and can get you through most the day.
https://www.cignot.com/product_p/kit-510-nbx.htm
Once you gotten started you will be able to try other 510 compatible devices. If you upgrade to a larger "vape all day" battery, like an eGo twist, you would be able to use the same charger (no need to purchase another). As far a liquid strength, since you were a pack a day, you could start with 18mg (light to reg) and decrease over time. The cig-a-likes are fine for when you are out and about, but eventually you will want something more substantial for around the house, hence the ego twist suggestion.

 

[Covert24]

Alrighty. Just pulled the trigger on a Halo G6. Only got one battery per ecig since one is for my fiancé and she is going to try to cut back on analogs with me. Figure this will be a good trial run and give me a little hands on as far as juices go.

Here's a screenshot of my order.

Sent From My One XL Using Tapatalk

 

[Covert24]

The electric lime auto is for my fiance and the titanium manual is for me. Got some blanks that we can both share for the time being and a DIY variety pack with varying nicotine levels so I can mix and match if one is too strong/too weak.

How did I do?

Sent From My One XL Using Tapatalk

 

[Uncle]

IMO - A GOOD Start, especially since it fills what you said "you" wanted to start with . . .

GOOD LUCK and I really hope that you both do well with you "Transition into the Vaping World" . . .

Just remember - if you have any problems or have any other questions the ECF Community is here for You both and to help . . .

 

[mkbilbo]

The electric lime auto is for my fiance and the titanium manual is for me. Got some blanks that we can both share for the time being and a DIY variety pack with varying nicotine levels so I can mix and match if one is too strong/too weak.

How did I do?

Hm... I would have suggested a starter kit but the main thing is: start.

If you're going to fill your own cartos, I suggest checking out the "condom" method (yeah, it's really called that). Like here: condom or "push" method. Or just search YouTube for "condom method". The first links that come up have to do with filling cartos.

And I let mine sit a while after filling. I found that they were way too wet and I could get juice in my mouth (which is really irritating) trying to use them. I'll even set up some fills before bed and let them sit overnight.

You'll want more cartos before long. For one, they tend to retain the flavor so you'll probably want to keep things separate. There are cleaning methods (like boiling) all over YouTube but I never can get the last juice completely out.

Halo seems expensive for blanks. Am I missing something? I get Boge SR 510 blanks for $1.59 each. I can't tell if they mean their price as "each" or for a pack of blanks?

Also, two words: sample packs.

Finding the flavors you like and the juice that works for you takes some experimenting. I always look for sample packs. You never know what you'll like until you try it.

 

[Wizzlefits]

Looks good to me!
But one word of warning, if you have never tried e-cigs before, be careful with the first hit you take. I used to smoke 2+ packs a day, and almost coughed up a lung on the first hit. (I hit it hard an long like an analog)
Just slow an easy..
and
drink plenty of water!

Oh!
Welcome to ECF!!

 

[Uncle]

@ "mkbilbo" . . .

While I do agree with you about almost everything you said and that this person could get stuff a little less expensive (if and when they do a search of the other vendors threds and web sites) they are on the right track for THEM . . . Sorry I disagree with you also - Halo and Smokeless Image KR808 cartomizers are just as good as any others . . . and it is what this person wants to start out with, which is the most important thing . . . A Cigarette Style "eCig" . . .

@ "Wizzlefits" . . . Really Good Advice . . .

 

[Covert24]

Awesome! When I fill up the blanks, how many drops do I put in them? Also, I've heard of people opening the bottles up and letting them sit for a while (steep) to let the flavors disperse. Any harm in just shaking them up a bit and using?

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[Bronze]

Awesome! When I fill up the blanks, how many drops do I put in them? Also, I've heard of people opening the bottles up and letting them sit for a while (steep) to let the flavors disperse. Any harm in just shaking them up a bit and using?

Sent From My One XL Using Tapatalk

Many juices have extracting alcohol in them and it doesn't taste very good (plus it ......s steeping). To be safe, pull the caps and drippers off for a day or two to allow them to evaporate. Recap and let sit a good week or more. They generally improve with age out to several months. Steeping is the process of flavor molecules bonding to each other. So shake often to promote mingling.

 

[Uncle]

Awesome! When I fill up the blanks, how many drops do I put in them? Also, I've heard of people opening the bottles up and letting them sit for a while (steep) to let the flavors disperse. Any harm in just shaking them up a bit and using?

Sent From My One XL Using Tapatalk

20 -25 drops down the side of the cartomizer - let them soak in and then do a "Taryn Spin" - Here is a video that discribes how to fill a cartomizer by one of the best reviews around "SteelJan" (Very Informative Woman):

​

Also as someone else also posted above - the "Condom Method" works very well to fill the blanks . . .

 

[mkbilbo]

@ "mkbilbo" . . .

While I do agree with you about almost everything you said and that this person could get stuff a little less expensive (if and when they do a search of the other vendors threds and web sites) they are on the right track for THEM . . . Sorry I disagree with you also - Halo and Smokeless Image KR808 cartomizers are just as good as any others . . . and it is what this person wants to start out with, which is the most important thing . . . A Cigarette Style "eCig" . . .

Hey, what works, works.

Not criticizing, I don't actually know much of anything about Halo. Except it's a nice looking kit. I couldn't tell if their carto price is for a pack or each. Just seemed a bit high. They're KR808? Then I wouldn't know what they "should" cost. I do 510s. But, yeah, first thing is: start. Then figure out threading and compatibility and vendors and everything else.

Criticize somebody's first kit? Hah!

I started with Blu. Like I'd have room to talk.

 

[Covert24]

I was really wanting to get the variety pack by halo but I wanted different nicotine levels which is not available with the packs. Also, with the starter kit I wanted to have a different color then what it came with and also my fiancé wanted a different color than I so I just made my own kit.

Thanks for the info on the condom method although from what a few people have said around here it looks to be a messy job and waste of juice. Maybe once I start dialing in my preferred flavors and getting used to everything, that will be my new method but for now I'll just take my time with everything and drop it in.

With the threading size "KR808" , is it possible to use any part of the same threading with each other? In other words are kr808 threaded parts from different companies all interchangeable? Same for the 510's.

Hey, what works, works.

Not criticizing, I don't actually know much of anything about Halo. Except it's a nice looking kit. I couldn't tell if their carto price is for a pack or each. Just seemed a bit high. They're KR808? Then I wouldn't know what they "should" cost. I do 510s. But, yeah, first thing is: start. Then figure out threading and compatibility and vendors and everything else.

Criticize somebody's first kit? Hah!

I started with Blu. Like I'd have room to talk.

The 8.99 blanks are for 5 of em. Still a bit on the high side but I plan to switch to tanks once I start getting into this. And believe me, the way I get into hobbies I'll have a bunch of random stuff everywhere haha.

Blu? Even I know better than that


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