Help a newbie?

[GPAUL]

Greetings and thank's in advance for any and all help.

I am a 30 year smoker. Need to quit. Tried Chantix and it made me want to kill the neighbors, the mailman and my daughters parakeet. NOT GOOD. I have been a miserable failure at the quitting thing. Managed for two weeks, cold chicken, after my CARDIAC STENT INSTALLATION. How stupid can I possibly be? Pretty stupid it seems and I need to quit proving it.

This vape idea seems like a great method to finally get loose of these damned coffin nails. I have looked around the web and see so many possible products. Some look like a cigarette ( Green Smoke) and some look like a devise. I am lost. The delivery methods all seem unique. I see folks here are even blueprinting their vaporizers and doing performance modification. That strikes me as pretty cool. It shows that folks like the undertaking well enough to lay down some creative effort.

I would deeply appreciate any and all insight as to the difference in devices, and or what seems to be successful in assisting a pathetic schmuck like myself in getting a leg up. A new, safer habit is completely acceptable to me.

Thank you

G

 

[Automaton]

Hey GPAUL, welcome to ECF!

You're not pathetic, man. Most of us have tried a million times to quit, and finally found it in e-cigs.

You haven't really said what kind of device you're most interested in, so I'll just give you a couple starting places.

I've tried a few e-cigs, but the only one I've owned and used on a long-term basis is the Kr808D-1, which is considered to be one of the good starter models. It's a 2-piece system with a cartomizer. I really love the flavor of it, and it has the best battery life in its size category. The cartomizers also keep going for several hours, so I don't have to fiddle so much. Not quite as much vapor as some of the atty/cart systems, and cartomizers can be re-used and even washed, but they don't have an indefinite lifespan like carts and atomizers do.

The other main good starter model is the ever-popular 510, which is a 3-piece with an atty and cart. They get killer vapor, but I personally don't feel like I get quite as much flavor or throat hit from them as my Kr808D-1. They are also a bit more fiddly. But they're very consistent performers, and they are extremely versatile. If you really want to get creative, this may be a good place for you to start.

Both of those models are slightly larger than a 100 cig in both length and width.

But if you don't mind whether it looks like a cig, consider bumping up. Even the Kr808D-1 battery won't go more than 4 or 5 hours before it starts to lose some puff, so if you're ok with going a little bigger, try an eGo.

The eGo is built to talk 510 atomizers, or 510 cartomizers, and for a lot of people, the battery will last most of the day.

If you want to play around... here's what I've recently done.

The atomizers for 901's will fit on a Kr808D-1 battery without an adapter. So, I've recently tried a 901 atty (the first atty I've owned outright!).

So that way you can try both systems with one battery, and you don't have to buy 2 separate kits.

I'm liking the atomizer. I still use cartomizers more, but I'm glad I tried it and I'm keeping it around.

 

[ckc]

Hello G, welcome

A great place to start would be reading the Wonderful World of Vaping here:-

The ECF Library - E-Cigarette Forum

I'm sure once you've read that you'll have a better understanding how everything works etc and someone will no doubt recommend the best E-Cigs to start with.

 

[Nomoreash]

Hello and Welcome

I wouldn't worry about all the mods you're reading about quite yet. A kit with some extras will get you up and running and give you time to research and take this all in.

As far as a kit if having a slim device that looks most like a cigarette is important to you a 510 kit is a good way to start. If you don't mind going with a little bigger device (about the size of a cigar then a Riva or Ego kit would be the way to go. The difference being the larger device is going to have a bigger battery which will go longer in between recharging. Most report getting 2 hours in between on the 510 and similar sized and get 6-8 hours or more with the Ego or Riva. That's going to vary as anything will in how heavy you use it, I got much longer on both. A standard kit usually includes 2 batteries, 2 atomizers, blank and sometimes prefilled carts and a charger.

Getting Juice that hits your sweet spot is going to probably take some experimentation and there is a huge amount to choose from out there. I'd recommend getting a variety of of smaller size bottles to start. Many places offer sample packs that come in 5 or more which gives you a way to try different ones.

With you're initial kit purchase I'd also recommend getting a drip tip which is a great way to experiment and try new juices. A few extra Atomizers and some blank carts which are what hold the liquid and feed it to the atomizer. Once you decide on a few different types of liquid you like you can start using cartomizers which combine the automizer and cart in one piece and make it much easier not having to refill them as often.

 

[whiskey]

I agree...start with the ECF Library...you'll learn alot there & good luck Gpaul

 

[cskent]

I too was a smoker for 30+ years. I found e-cigs and never really looked back. Not only does it work it's cheaper and healthier. Well cheaper if you don't make a hobby of it anyway. I've been vaping now for a few months, tried a couple of "real" cig's during that time and will never do so again. You will, however, stop thinking of killing the mailman and start stalking him while waiting for your packages of toys and goodies to arrive.

 

[The Rebel]

You will, however, stop thinking of killing the mailman and start stalking him while waiting for your packages of toys and goodies to arrive.

AMEN! I'm supposed to have a package waiting for me when I get home from work. Better be there or me and the mailman are going to a go a few rounds!

But +1000 on the reading GPAUL. Go through the library and read, read, read. Read the reviews for the different models and different juices. It took me two whole weeks of reading on this forum before I decided what model to buy. Everyone can suggest something, but it is really you that needs to decide.

 

[smitti1]

You're no more stupid than any of us. Haven't had stents yet, but it could happen. Every attempt I've made has been a huge failure. Just started using Joye Ego ecig today. I can tell already that if I can quit, it will be with ecigs. I finally have hope. You can do it too.

There's an overwhelming amount of info here. You'll no doubt get very confused, but that's OK. Just read & ask questions. There are many different opinions, but everyone has been very friendly & helpful. Good luck!

PS: Whatever you decide to order, get 2-3 different flavor juices & strengths. You'll find the strength you need after trying them.

 

[markfm]

Don't sweat perfection -- the 808, 510, and eGo that you'll keep seeing referenced are all good products. A basic 808 kit, two batteries, charger, initial 5-pack of prefilled cartomizers runs about $50. Get another couple of 5 packs, you'll be in at under $70 (if you smoke regular strength cigarettes you'll likely want a 24 mg strength liquid, though a fair number of people like 18).

Vapor4life (their VaporKing) and NHaler are two good sources for the KR808D-1 -- other ECF suppliers carry this model, and the others. NHaler has a standard 10% off (saveinnj), while vapor4life uses smilin (and often has other specials).

 

[GPAUL]

You folks are wonderful. I truly appreciate the help. As a smoker I am used to being much more marginalized. I forgot there were others in the same snake pit. Thank you for the kind words.

I am starting to read the info. Man there a a multitude of choices. I am thinking that it may be sensible to start with the 510 and eGo from Joye as an initial start up. Both units seem well understood and popular. Beyond that, this seems to be a boutique industry of some very neat devices. Any recommendations as to a good supplier? I see Cignot seems popular. I assume that I can't walk into Wall Mart and leave with my new best friends in hand?

I so appreciate this.


Glenn

 

[markfm]

Mall kiosks tend to be a bad buy for e-cigarettes -- often marginal (bad performing, over-priced) models, and I've heard that they often have cruddy liquid (too low in nicotine, or just poor in general).

"Forum Suppliers" at the top of every ECF page are some decent vendors, ones with a presence here. I can only speak to the two 808 suppliers I've used, both good -- I'm sure others will chime in with who sells 510s and eGos, and current specials they know of.

 

[Automaton]

You folks are wonderful. I truly appreciate the help. As a smoker I am used to being much more marginalized. I forgot there were others in the same snake pit. Thank you for the kind words.

I am starting to read the info. Man there a a multitude of choices. I am thinking that it may be sensible to start with the 510 and eGo from Joye as an initial start up. Both units seem well understood and popular. Beyond that, this seems to be a boutique industry of some very neat devices. Any recommendations as to a good supplier? I see Cignot seems popular. I assume that I can't walk into Wall Mart and leave with my new best friends in hand?

I so appreciate this.


Glenn

If you are open to getting an eGo, skip the standard 510 and go right to it. The battery life on the regular 510 is it's pitfall, and the eGo solves that problem nicely.

I've heard nothing but wonderful things about CigNot, so yes, that would be a good place to go.

Unfortunately, good e-cigs are hard to find in regular stores. Some gas stations are selling them, and mall kiosks. And some of them work ok. But they're almost universally overpriced for what they are.

You'll be able to get something better, at a more reasonable price, online.

 

[lmrasch]

Welcome GPaul
The more you read this forum, you will be encouraged to know that many of us started out just like you....you are not alone. The paths we've taken in trying to kick the cigarette (analog) habit has left us feeling weak, incompetent and losing failures. The great thing is that now we have an alternative that works for the MAJORITY of the people. We are able to quit at our own pace, some quit the day their e cig arrives, but others gradually reduce until they realize they simply have NO desire to ever pick up another analog. I took me about a week to completely drop my 30 analog a day habit and I'm not looking back.
There is a learning curve with these and that is why I didn't quit the very first day. I purchased the joye 510, great little device...however, the batteries didn't last long and that was so frustrating, so definitely make sure that the device you get has a longer lasting battery.
Another important aspect is the juice, my suggestion is to try Backwoods Brew because I have yet to read a bad review of ANY of his juices, tried and true. If you get a juice you don't like with your first vaping experience it may cause discouragement, so at least start with juices that most everyone who has tried them likes.
My favorites are:
Applewood - Tobacco w/ a hint of smokey apple
Caramel Cappuccino - If you like coffee, you should love this
Honey Flue Nut - Yummers
BBs prices are very good and his customer service is outstanding.
So, in summary....long lasting battery and great juice
On a side note, when you get your device....make sure you come to the forum with any questions....we are here to help..and as I said before...there is a learning curve with these so don't get discouraged....VAPE ON!

 

[Nomoreash]

If you want the Riva Kit which is the same as the Ego with a slightly higher rated battery then check out VaporJunction. They have a sale going and have some kits left in black. I ordered mine from them last week, processing and shipping were lightning fast.

 

[lmrasch]

If you want the Riva Kit which is the same as the Ego with a slightly higher rated battery then check out VaporJunction. They have a sale going and have some kits left in black. I ordered mine from them last week, processing and shipping were lightning fast.

My daughter has the Riva (from VaporJunction) and loves it! It's her 5th day and she's down to having 1-2 analogs a day.

 

[GPAUL]

Jeez! OK. I think I'll go for the 808 from Vapor King. Im looking at the XL.

Manual or automatic is the choice now. Looking at the data, it seems that auto may be less dependable?

 

[JC Okie]

DON'T get the 510 and the eGo....get one or the other. Actually, I'm suggesting that you just get the eGo...or the Riva (same thing, different "brand")...they will last and last (battery.) And we all suggest getting some good juice...it'll make all the difference.

I smoked for 40 years and really had no intentions of quitting....or at least that's what I told myself. I intended to "supplement" my smoking with something I saw as a little cheaper than cigs. HOWEVER, once I started vaping, I just pretty much lost all interest in cigarettes. I smoked a few the first week....and they made me sick they were so awful!!! How did I think I couldn't live without those????!!!?? Anyway, you're making a great decision with ecigs....and you're going to be soooo surprised at how easy it is to replace those nasty cigs....and you're gonna be sooooo PROUD of yourself! Just wait. I see good things in your future. Ha. And just think how cool it's gonna be when your tests from the doctor's office start coming back "off the charts good!"

 

[JC Okie]

Manual. Much more control and better vaping all around. My opinion.

 

[lmrasch]

Manual....all the way. Right now you may think that it's a hassle, but truly it is not and manual gives you the option of how long you can draw, whereas the auto has a cut off...not good.

 

[skidaug]

Greetings GPAUL. I am new to vaping myself coming off a 40 plus year pack a day addiction. Probably most of us starting out want something along the line of a 510 starter kit because it closely resembles the cigarette that has been dangling from our lips for years. Well, if you feel that is what you need to quit then go for it but I would suggest you go with an Ego or Riva. You will get a much longer battery life than the 510 or 808 will offer and in my opinion a more enjoyable vaping experience.
I purchased a Riva for $49.99, shipping included, from an e-cig shop in Alvin, Texas. I can't post a link because they are not an approved forum supplier but they are BBB approved and SSL certified. If you are interested just do a google for Alvin E-cig.
The kit does not come with prefilled carts so make sure an order some juice. Backwoods Brew has great juice and service.
Whatever you decide on good luck and good vaping.