Good gravy! I'm soooo confused

[eravenheart]

Okay,
This will be my first official post. I've been reading here for more than two hours and my head is spinning with all the lingo and brands and types. So, I figure I can cut through a lot of it by first of all saying: I'm e-cignorant!!! Second. I've been smoking a long time now. I'm so sick of it but the addiction to the nicotine is smacking me back to "analog" (God, I love that term from my by-gone computer days) cigarettes. I'd like an electronic alternative but I am simply overwhelmed here and don't know where to begin. I went to Wal-Mart just a minute ago to a) rest my eyes, brains (I think), and my mouse. I asked for an e-cig and they gave me a Fin brand disposable. Now, I've read here that disposables are the last in line for vaping (cool term, heh), and my first pull knocked me silly (so much nicotine and flavor) but it did actually shut my nicotine craving up a little.
So, now, down to brass tacks. I'm one of those people that can make very few decisions for themselves. I rely on other people to tell me what to do. So, please tell me what to do. Here's my dilemma:
1) What kind of negative reactions can I expect during the transition from analog to electronic?
2) My habit is just less than a pack a day (about 14 to 18 depending on how bored I am).
3) I need something to get me started. I need quality, not some cheap crap that will break if I look at it wrong. (I am a disaster toward all things electronicor mechanical; remember Sam Neill from Jurassic Park? That's me. To the letter.)
4) Mostly, I just need someone to tell me where to go, what to do, how to do it, and... oh, wait. Scratch that. I don't want to get married!!!!

Thanks for your time.

 

[pcie]

1) What kind of negative reactions can I expect during the transition from analog to electronic?

I'd say negatives are:
- Having to get up at night to pee because of additional water consumption (vaping dries you out).
- Vaping becomes addictive (like a hobby) and you WILL end up spending more money now then you did on analogs (at least I did).

I'm not really comfortable making a recommendation of devices.
Check out PBusardo on youtube PBusardo's Vaping Reviews - YouTube , his videos are good, he breaks things down enough so that you will be able to make your own choice.

 

[Fishsnapper]

I had that same "knocked me silly" experience when I tried my first e-cig. It was an NJoy King "Bold." Coughed like I did from my first analog! I also agree with pcie that it will become "more" addictive than analogs, because re-building atomizers is becoming a hobby and I've amassed quite a collection in just two months.

As a starter, I've seen many recommendations to try the Smoov's, but I've never tried one myself. My go-to recommendation would be an e-go battery (any manufacture is fine, doesn't have to be Joye), with a Kanger EVOD Cartomizer/clearomizer. Easy to fill, relatively cheap to maintain, and good Vapor, Flavor, and Throat hit.

Good Luck!

 

[donesmokin]

eGo twist/Vision spinner batteries and carto tanks are my recommendation for newbies.

 

[AgentAnia]

Welcome to the forum, eravenheart! You've come to the right place.

However, instead of telling you stuff, I'm going to suggest that, if you haven' already done so, go to ECF's InfoZone and read the sections on "new e-cigarette users" and "e-cigarette guide." Learn about the different types of e-cigs: most vapers acknowledge that "cigalikes" (like your Fin) are a good, effective way to make the transition from analogs to cigs. Some, however, will advise you to bypass cigalikes and go directly to devices like eGo's and other more advanced vaporizers. Check out the ECF suppliers forum, and search Google Shopping for "electronic cigarettes" and check out all the vendors and read about what they offer.

As far as negative reactions to switching, check out the Health, Safety, and E-Smoking forum. You'll be dealing with two separate issues: withdrawal from tobacco smoking, and reactions (if any) to vaping. Some people have a difficult time quitting analogs, even with vaping, and some make the switch effortlessly. Some very few people find they have sensitivities to ingredients in e-juice, but since juice can be tailored to your preferences and needs, that's a problem easily resolved.

I wish you luck and hope you'll feel free to ask questions and get lots of helpful answers!

EDIT: PBusardo has an excellent "intro to ecigs" video on YouTube: A PBusardo Video - Beginners Guide to E-Cigs and E-Cig Tech - YouTube

 

[QTPie]

Just my two cents. My hubby and I went with a cig a like Greensmoke. We love them. They are easy to use and the battery USB passthrough is awesome because I don't have to use my batteries at home when I'm on the computer. They do have a limited variety of flavors but I've tried them all and they are all pretty good. Just my experience yours may be different.

 

[gasher23]

I second the comment on the vision spinner or the twist.

 

[IMFire3605]

1) Setup for your hardware. The kit should include 2 batteries, a charger, 2 delivery attachments, case optional, bottle of liquid.
Suggestions myself, 2 Ego Twists (Vision Spinners), 650 milli-amp hour (mah) or higher, can get a usb-passthrough even better, attachments maybe look at a bottom coil clearomizer and top coil clearomizer, 1 Evod tank and maybe one Vivi Nova mini, with charger and a 10-30 milli-liter bottle of juice to get started in maybe 1.2% (12mg) of Nic content if that Fin spun you for a loop. Reason I suggest 2 types of attachments bottom coil Evod and top coil Vivi Nova will give you and idea of how those types of tanks vape, bottom coils are cooler than top coils, once you find you preferred vape temp you can look at more similar devices down the road. The Ego Twist/Vision Spinners, these are simple beginner variable volt devices that let you dial in your taste and vapor how you like, then you can look later at more advanced systems, but the Ego/Spinner style batteries are reliable, proven, and last a while, 2 650mah batts can last you all day, and while one is charging the other is in service when at home. Next Fin disposable you buy, ask for the low Nic level version, though I'd look at a couple Blu disposables to have on hand as backups, again Low nic level, which is around 1.2% per volume or 12mg nic per milli-liter, the high 1.8% (18mg) sounds a bit much for you. The Evod and Vivi tanks also, the coil heads are replaceable so you are not out constantly buying new tanks you just have to replace and buy new heads.

Don't know if there are any Brick and Mortar shops near your area, aka vendors with a local store front you can walk into I highly suggest looking to find, especially to get questions answered directly face to face, technical support and such. Online Vendors I can suggest MadVapes and Vaping Xtreme which are both in North Carolina, GotVapes is another site I use for miscelanious hardware. Juice vendors, some of the higher rated sites like Mount Baker Vapor, Heather's Heavenly Vapes, Liquid Express, Johnson Creek are all respectable vendors online with wide varieties of flavors most of them


*Edit*
I'll dime in on checking out PBusardo's channel on Youtube, another 2 good guys on Youtube, GrimGreen and VapinGreek

 

[SpiritBear]

I'm just over a month into being off the logs and into vaping and I remember very well being where you now are -- it is a lot to try to digest in a short time when you are ready to take the step and need to know quickly what choices to make. The fact is that no one setup works for everyone, no one juice works for everyone, and so on. Here's my take:

1. Negative reactions during the transition vary from person to person. All or nearly all experience dehydration and need to up the daily intake of water to combat that concern. So far, that's really about the only thing I've personally experienced but it's only a negative if you don't up your fluids.

2. I was a PAD to PAD + 1/2 -- the amount one smokes may have a bearing on how much nicotine would be best to start with. I started with 24mg/nic and that's worked well for me. I also now have some 12mg and some 0mg that I also enjoy. If I were you, I would not go "higher" than 24mg/nic and 12mg/nic might work great for you.

3. After much reading, I picked a Joyetech eGo-C Twist starter kit for my first setup. The kit I bought contained 2 of the batteries (1000mAh which will last most of a day normally), 2 Vivi Nova clearomizer tanks ready to go (they already had the removable and replaceable heads/wicks inside them), 2 chargers and a small empty bottle that one can carry a bit of juice in. This all came packed in a hard-cover carry kit. The Vivi Novas that I chose were the 3.5ml (slightly larger size), and I also bought a 5-pack of extra heads/wicks and picked the 1.5ohm size. Purchased this at MyFreedomSmokes.com and with my choices the cost came to just over $100 plus shipping.

I picked out juice separately. If you are a fan of mint or menthol, a mint/menthol juice can be a good one to start with because seems it usually can be vaped upon arrival without need to steep for a few days. That's my experience so far. I've picked juices that are in the range of 60/40 on PG/VG to get more flavor, but I've also found some 50/50 blends that I like.

Have been very pleased with the above. Since that initial purchase, I've stocked up a little on extra heads/wicks as well as some extra Vivi Nova clearomizers, and bought a couple other batteries that are not eGo-C but have been working well. These items are for fixes or replacements as needed, and also for backup batteries or the ability to have more than a couple flavors going.

Good Luck!

 

[Dakota Jim]

1) Setup for your hardware. The kit should include 2 batteries, a charger, 2 delivery attachments, case optional, bottle of liquid.
Suggestions myself, 2 Ego Twists (Vision Spinners), 650 milli-amp hour (mah) or higher, can get a usb-passthrough even better, attachments maybe look at a bottom coil clearomizer and top coil clearomizer, 1 Evod tank and maybe one Vivi Nova mini, with charger and a 10-30 milli-liter bottle of juice to get started in maybe 1.2% (12mg) of Nic content if that Fin spun you for a loop. Reason I suggest 2 types of attachments bottom coil Evod and top coil Vivi Nova will give you and idea of how those types of tanks vape, bottom coils are cooler than top coils, once you find you preferred vape temp you can look at more similar devices down the road. The Ego Twist/Vision Spinners, these are simple beginner variable volt devices that let you dial in your taste and vapor how you like, then you can look later at more advanced systems, but the Ego/Spinner style batteries are reliable, proven, and last a while, 2 650mah batts can last you all day, and while one is charging the other is in service when at home. Next Fin disposable you buy, ask for the low Nic level version, though I'd look at a couple Blu disposables to have on hand as backups, again Low nic level, which is around 1.2% per volume or 12mg nic per milli-liter, the high 1.8% (18mg) sounds a bit much for you. The Evod and Vivi tanks also, the coil heads are replaceable so you are not out constantly buying new tanks you just have to replace and buy new heads.

Don't know if there are any Brick and Mortar shops near your area, aka vendors with a local store front you can walk into I highly suggest looking to find, especially to get questions answered directly face to face, technical support and such. Online Vendors I can suggest MadVapes and Vaping Xtreme which are both in North Carolina, GotVapes is another site I use for miscelanious hardware. Juice vendors, some of the higher rated sites like Mount Baker Vapor, Heather's Heavenly Vapes, Liquid Express, Johnson Creek are all respectable vendors online with wide varieties of flavors most of them


*Edit*
I'll dime in on checking out PBusardo's channel on Youtube, another 2 good guys on Youtube, GrimGreen and VapinGreek

I agree 100%

and here is good site for searching for B&M stores

Electric Cigarette | Eliquid | Supplies | Electronic Cigarette | Ejuice | Vapor Search USA

 

[eravenheart]

Many wonderful responses. Thanks. I'm currently following up on them.

 

[mh1972]

heres a link to a vision spinner starter kit, get the 1300 mAh spinner batteries, they have both twist and spinners in the drop down list, i am not sure which tank you should get, i would wait to see what someone else has to say, this would be pretty simple to use, they also sell eliquid on that site.
http://www.myvaporstore.com/Vision_Spinner_Joye_Ego_C_Twist_Combo_p/vvs-c.htm

 

[yardbyrd]

Okay,
This will be my first official post. I've been reading here for more than two hours and my head is spinning with all the lingo and brands and types. So, I figure I can cut through a lot of it by first of all saying: I'm e-cignorant!!! Second. I've been smoking a long time now. I'm so sick of it but the addiction to the nicotine is smacking me back to "analog" (God, I love that term from my by-gone computer days) cigarettes. I'd like an electronic alternative but I am simply overwhelmed here and don't know where to begin. I went to Wal-Mart just a minute ago to a) rest my eyes, brains (I think), and my mouse. I asked for an e-cig and they gave me a Fin brand disposable. Now, I've read here that disposables are the last in line for vaping (cool term, heh), and my first pull knocked me silly (so much nicotine and flavor) but it did actually shut my nicotine craving up a little.
So, now, down to brass tacks. I'm one of those people that can make very few decisions for themselves. I rely on other people to tell me what to do. So, please tell me what to do. Here's my dilemma:
1) What kind of negative reactions can I expect during the transition from analog to electronic?
2) My habit is just less than a pack a day (about 14 to 18 depending on how bored I am).
3) I need something to get me started. I need quality, not some cheap crap that will break if I look at it wrong. (I am a disaster toward all things electronicor mechanical; remember Sam Neill from Jurassic Park? That's me. To the letter.)
4) Mostly, I just need someone to tell me where to go, what to do, how to do it, and... oh, wait. Scratch that. I don't want to get married!!!!

Thanks for your time.

I stumbled on this thread within the first week of being a member here and still believe it is one of the best. I hope this assists you in any way....and welcome.

http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/new-members-forum/252976-dos-donts-first-timers-newbie.html

 

[Hippieangst]

Welcome, eravenheart! All of us have been there. This is all so overwhelming.

I notice a couple of people have suggested the eGo Twists, and these are a good, solid intro to vaping. I have four of them myself (two as backups and two for everyday use). I would suggest getting the bigger battery like the 900 - 1300 mah range. These are only a few dollars more and do last longer. There's a couple of decently priced delivery systems that are sturdy and won't break the bank:
Vivi Nova: this is a top coil system, so the throat hit will be a bit warmer.
Smok Dual Coil Cartomizer: These are about $3 from Mt. Baker Vapor and can handle any juice (see note below). They hold up to 5 ml of juice and a good intro into cartomizers. I have one of these that I use when I am out and about and don't want to carry a bunch of gear with me.

Juices: you will come across juices to be labeled tank killers. Yes, this happens, so you need to be careful with what juices you are putting in what system. The Vivi Nova also has a metal tube option (check out MyVaporStore for this).

During my transition from analogs into vaping, I noticed I liked stronger flavors like mint and cinnamon based stuff. Now, I've moved on to some more complex stuff.

Last thing: A lot of newbies end up going to Mt. Baker Vapor for their first juices, and this is a great place to start. A lot of veteran vapers still get their juices from there as well. They have good, sturdy juices, quick shipping, and excellent customer service. Chat with one of the live help folks. I've gotten coupon codes from them after chatting. Another good place that I have used for some gear is The Digital Cig. Use the coupon code "friend" to get 10% off your first order.

Good luck new vaping friend.

 

[candik]

If you can, I would suggest going into a real brick and mortar store and seeing what is available. Talk to someone who can put pictures to words so you'll get a more clear understanding of things like battery size, threading, e juice delivery devices, etc. Doesn't mean you need to buy from them if you're not ready or comfy. Just gives you a physical introduction.

Whatever you do decide on, definitely get two batteries. That way you can have one to vape on while the other is charging (if need be) and it gives you a back up if one fails. Try a few different e juice delivery devices so you'll be able to pin point what your "sweet spot" is (ie; bottom coil, top coil, etc.,).

The set up I started with and will stay with is a Vamo V2. I'm not saying that is what you should get but I needed something that was flexible and offered different settings since I had no idea what my vape needs would turn out to be. The Vamo gives me the ability to change my settings if it's not enough or too much, it has ego and 510 threading so I'm not as limited with what juice delivery device I want to use, it uses 3 different battery configurations so it's even size changeable. That was my choice. It doesn't mean it should be yours. You should choose what works for you based on what YOUR needs or wants are, not just because someone says this is the one you should get.

 

[eravenheart]

Leave it to Seattle to be B.a.M free. 60 mile drive to the closest one for me. *sigh* If I get a day off any time soon, I might have to drive down to Puyallup. And hey! There's a Sonic there too! Until then, you, my fine new posters, will be my eyes and fingers into this strange new world! Thanks!

 

[IMFire3605]

Leave it to Seattle to be B.a.M free. 60 mile drive to the closest one for me. *sigh* If I get a day off any time soon, I might have to drive down to Puyallup. And hey! There's a Sonic there too! Until then, you, my fine new posters, will be my eyes and fingers into this strange new world! Thanks!

NP. One of the first places I found with a wealth of information on my road to stinky free. Pay it forward and pay it backward, there are a lot, and I mean a lot of helpful people, especially the veterans. But good luck to you. Any questions don't hesitate to repost or pop up a new thread, a lot of people lurk the threads here and someone is bound to have an answer

 

[sbc83]

Mmmmm, gravy.

 

[bamaguy727]

Congrats on your decision to quit analogs --- At first you will be overwhelmed by all the choices of juices and equipment but lots and lots of useful info on the forums if you take the time to read them --but remember , everyone is different and has their own ideas of whats best for them and TASTE IS SUBJECTIVE
Lots of vendors have start up kits and alot have sample juice packs - also if your community has a ecig store , that would be where I would go .they usually let you sample juices and can recommend you equipent THEN order your supplies online to save $$$$$$$

 

[MartiP]

I've only been at this for 2 months, but I second (or 4th or 5th or whatever) the suggestion of an Ego twist battery. I tried the drugstore cigalikes a couple of years ago, and while they might have been adequate had I been really determined, they just weren't doing it for me. I tried them again this time, because I was absolutely convinced in my head that I needed something cig-sized. I was wrong. One puff on the Twist was SOOOOO much more satisfying.

I've tried a few tanks in this new endeavor, and the simplest and least leaky etc for me has been the Evod BCC (bottom coil clearomizer). I mostly stick with the 2.2 Ohm screw-in replaceable heads for it. Once you have that, you just need a charger for the battery, and some juice. Sampler bundles in 5 or 10 flavors are nice, since you have no idea what you will like.

I picked all these not because they are the greatest thing since sliced bread, but because they are not too expensive, pretty reliable, and idiot proof, and miles better than drugstore cigalikes. I'm a recent enough noob to know how overwhelming it can all seem - it STILL is sometimes! I didn't want a big learning curve in the midst of trying to quit. If you move on later to a bigger or more powerful device, the Ego is still great to have around as a backup or travel PV. So: 1 or 2 Ego Twists (or clone), couple of evod bcc tanks, some heads, and a charger.

I strongly suggest that you see if there is a vaping storefront anywhere near you. My local shop has been invaluable, especially when it comes to trying out juice flavors (most shops have a sort of "vaping sample bar" set up so you can try stuff.)

That's my Noob to Noob advice. Welcome, and good luck!