Intro and Rant (Sorta)

[longstrider07]

Happy Holidays to all!

I have been a member for quite sometime, but have never posted, just lurked.

Just recently started DIY ejuice, so I wanted to be prepared to ask, or answer questions! I have already learned a lot just by reading.

As for the RANT... Really... I absolutely cannot stand that many brick and mortar stores, that are popping up ALL over the place now, will sell you a clone of a mod, atomizer, or tank for the price of the Authentic. I went to one store that even advertises on its website that it does not do that, and they still tried to do it to me. Needless to say, they gave me my money back, after I pointed out it was a clone and WHY it was a clone, even though they have a strict no return policy. I really left them with no choice.

ALL of that to say... Just be careful fellow vapers... some of the B&Ms will lie to you, just like some e juice companies will tell "of course our juice is Diacetyl free!"

Currently, our industry is truly "Caveat Emptor"... Let the Buyer Beware!

Vape On!

 

[cybercat]

Happy Holidays to you and yours. Thanks for the heads up from all us new people. It would be great if you could tell us how to tell a clone from the real deal. Glad you mentioned this.

 

[longstrider07]

They are getting harder to identify, because clones are being made with so much accuracy. But there are always a few things you can look for...

1) The Box is a dead give-away, typically. If it is NOT the same box as the Authentic, it is most definitely a clone.
2) Look for brass contacts, or chrome plated brass. It might be the contact pin at the bottom of an atomizer, or a post in a rebuildable. You can tell the difference from stainless steel, which is what authentics will mostly use.
3) Machining... many clones can be difficult to screw down. Look at the threads. If they are rough or slightly uneven, it could well be a clone.
4) Quality of the piece. Rough edges, or places that look like some really sloppy routing took place, or even raised metal is also a good sign you are dealing with a clone.

And if you have any doubts at a B&M, there are plenty of good places to get an authentic online.

Now I want to be clear about a few things...

1) I am not judging those who use clones. I have a few Kayfun clones and they are incredible. But if I buy a clone I do not expect to pay authentic prices. My Kayfun clones were $26. A reasonable price for a clone.
2) I love B&Ms and try to support them every chance I get. But if they lie to me... I will NEVER return. It is a simple as that. I have been lied to for certain at three B&Ms. I never go in spouting off what I know. I just wait to see what they have to say about an item. Try to find a B&M with avid vapers, and not one that is just attempting to ride the economic wave that vapers are creating with their hard earned money.

 

[Rat2chat2]

I would not consider this a rant. More of a service to fellow vapers that you come to expect from such a wonderful forum as ecf. I can only base my opinion on the two stores I have been in and believe me I was not impressed with either. I know that there are plenty of fine vaping establishments but nevertheless, your post is very important so all will be aware of what to look for. Thank you.

 

[cags]

when I first started vaping I really wished there were stores to go to. but there weren't so I had to buy online. now however I am grateful - I paid a lot less than I would have at a B&M and I found some local vapers (found them here) and got together with some of them so they could help me figure out what I was doing. and when I started I don't believe there were clones around

 

[nmsmith89]

Greetings!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Debadoo]

Really? I for one have no trouble reading it, and appreciate a little color on this forum.

 

[SpaceCowboy]

Happy Holidays to you and yours. Thanks for the heads up from all us new people. It would be great if you could tell us how to tell a clone from the real deal. Glad you mentioned this.

Adding onto what longstrider said, look for the depth on the engravings also, this is a dead giveaway, clone engravings are typically very shallow and will fade with time. another good place to look is the serial number, google the clone and real serials to see if they match. My hcigar kraken's serial number starts with HC which i would assume stands for Hcigar. Always, always ask to see a certificate of authenticity or code, lots of products come with these now.

 

[Dyanne]

Or, now...

Well if you took the time to read what Rat2Chat2 posts you would find she is a very supportive encouraging member who never seems to discriminate others. You on the hand appear very judgmental with your post. Nothing wrong with a bit of color in our world but hey each to their own right? I hope you had a good Christmas.

 

[Warpigs]

Welcome to ECF!

 

[longstrider07]

Thank you All! I have always loved the support and vaping camaraderie on ECF. There is a lot of fun, with a lot of education at the same time!

Happy to be here.