Iirc, we switched to Kanthal because it was considered a safer (safest?) resistance wire. And because many NiChrome users were complaining about its metallic taste.
I remember many heated discussions on the subject, and @MacTechVpr 's extensive writings on the subject.
Coil under electron microscope
And then there was this thread, after good doctor K. Farsalinos kicked the hornet's nest with his warning about dry burning/overheating our coils.
The end of microcoils?
Just my![]()
That Entire Chromium Oxide IV and "Nano Particles" debacle was what I would Consider to be Ex UCSF Employee Slantz's 1st Major Victory. And Propelled a little know UCR professor Prue Talbot into the National Spotlight.
It was also the 1st Time that I saw the ECF enmasse bend more to the will Hype and FUD verses following Accredited Science.
Then, as you mentioned, Dr. K tried to Quell the Flames only to pour Gasoline on the Fire thru a Hastily and Poorly Worded Statement.
Metals in e-liquid has had a Lasting Legacy. And I still occasional see references to "Studies" even when most of these "Studies" have either been Quantitatively put in perspective. Or in some cases, Exposed and Retracted as Junk via the Peer Review Process.
I tell people New to Rebuilding to try Kanthal A1 as well as NiChrome 80 as well as 316/316L SS wire. If you Can't taste any Difference between them then go with the SS. Because it is Slightly Easier to work with. And it gives you the Ability to use TC if you want to.
Same with Cotton and Rayon. Try a bunch of stuff. And if you Don't see a Huge Difference in them, go with the one that is the Easiest to use.