Methusalen: Another Newbie with questions/advice!

[Methusalen]

Hello all!

I'm a relative new-comer to the scene, after deciding to give e-cigs a try in the last week.

My goal, as I assume many others'; is to quit the good ol' life-shortening analogs...

I'm not a heavy smoker, with a pack lasting me between 5-7 DAYS... But, I just haven't been able to *QUIT* them! (Believe me, I've tried!)

While I'd actually heard about e-cigs before, my first actual experience with them was from my FATHER-IN-LAW; who had picked up a cheap ($20-25) starter kit from Green Smoke in a local gas station. He's a much heavier smoker (a pack or two a day), who's recently started to work on getting healthier... He's working hard on quitting, trying gum, patches, and the Green Smoke e-cigs. -Sadly, after about 5-6 months, he's *STILL* on the cartomizers that came with his initial purchase of the starter & 1 5-pack...

Another friend of mine has a Blu cig kit, which intrigues me; but I think it's mainly because of the fact the kit comes with PCC & you can find the refills in many of the area gas stations, Walgreens, & the like...

I haven't smoked a 'true' cigarette in two weeks now, though my initial experience w/ an njoy disposable started me off on a poor taste in my mouth... (well, not really.)

My first thoughts on the njoy king?

Definitely a good alternative to a traditional analog, as they claimed it was the equivalent of two packs' worth of cigarettes. The taste was *excellent* & felt like I was smoking a 'true' cigarette!

However, just as I've read here in the forums (in a thread by Atari); the njoy just didn't last much more than a few *DAYS*!
-This blew me a way! While it was a new experience, there was still NO way that I smoked *THAT* much more than I was when I smoked regular cigarettes!

So, I called their customer support line & asked them! -I was told that it was not, and that I likely received a defective unit.
They're sending me a free one for my troubles. Also, while I was there on their site, I spent $3 on a freebie to ship another disposable one to me; which should get me through until I am able to purchase myself a PROPER device!

I guess I should state HERE AND NOW that I'm looking to get some advice on what to start off with.
My intent is to get something that still *LOOKS* like an analog cigarette... same rough size & shape.

I know that this will limit me to devices w/ shorter battery life & less vapor production than the larger 'fancier' devices out there, but since the intent of my first purchase is to MIMIC the cigarette; I'm happy with this choice.

Now, I've considered dropping the money on a Blu kit; but I want to try to keep my spending down at the moment.
You'd think that this would open me up to 'just buying' the one at the gas station, but I'd rather get something *better* than that...

I'm considering a Joyetech 510 starter kit + the basic PPC... I don't care if the batteries are Automatic or Manual, if it's the original 510 or the 510-T, but I'd like to find one at the cheapest price I can!

Specific other links/products I might consider:
First Vapor Electronic Cigarettes: 510L Black Electronic Cigarettes
E-Cig Starter Kits


I've recently found that the town in Minnesota has a recently opened business which carries e-juice & some parts/equiptment, so I don't have to order juice & (some) replacement parts online ( ECig Crib - Get with the crowd & go smokeless, vape instead! )!


-I don't wish to read (m)any "You should really reconsider getting that & go with [this much larger, not very cigarette-looking device]!" responses. -If this is successful, I will definitely consider getting something that would workbetter later on down the line!

Anyways, thanks to any responses, advice, & most importantly LINKS to a *GREAT* deal to help this broke NEWBIE started off on the right foot!

-Best regards,
Methusalen

 

[Boiler]

Hey, neighbor!

I started with GreenSmoke myself, but the 510 kit doesn't look bad. There's another shop in the area you check out, also a couple in Wisconsin.

http://www.ecigshopmn.com/

http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/behind-cheddar-curtain/328764-vaping-brick-mortar-stores-wisconsin.html

 

[t8kiteasy]

I started on the Blu cig,while i wanted exactly what you are looking for at this point in time,at the end of the first week,i was kicking myself for forking out the money for it.It does exactly "mimic" an analog but you will be strapped to a power source if,you are a heavy smoker.You said you are not so this should not be a problem.the batteries lasted 45 minutes before they died and had to be charged,it took an hour and fourty five-two hours to charge one.using the PCC it took almost 3 hours for the PCC to charge one batt.Now if you are a heavy smoker you will have one batt left to use in that charge time,and only 45 minutes worth of power in it to use.I quickly dropped these and got an Ego-C kit.

EDIT: I know you said you did not want to here something like that i was just being honest about my experience with that kit.

 

[Methusalen]

Boiler: Thank you for the response. I'm actually right on the Mn/Wi border, so the Twin Cities shops are right up my alley (OK, so Anoka's a bit out of the way; but as I'd said before, I happen to *WORK* in Forest Lake)!

I did stop into the E-Cig Crib in Forest Lake, but wasn't overly impressed with what they had in stock up front... Pretty much the small selection of products from their website in one, long glass cabinet. The employee I talked to did show me an Ego option (their smallest unit), but I still felt it was too large for what I wanted. However, when I *do* end up picking up the unit I like; I'll be sure to head back there for my juice!

T8kiteasy: Thanks for the edit at the end, and while I really *do* appreciate your feedback; I think I'll be happy & content with the smaller battery... At this point, I still don't think that I'd be chainsmoking; but am just looking to get the equivalent to a few cigarettes a day out of it before I have to recharge the battery... So, a refillable 2-battery 510 kit (or equivalent) would do nicely, but I think what I really would like is something with the PCC for the simple convenience of having the spare charged battery if needed.

I may well upgrade at a later time, but for now; I'm pretty confident that I'd be happy with something as close to the 'real thing' as possible (even *IF* I may decide to get some non-traditional e-juice options)!

 

[Baditude]

Give the Smokeless Image Volts a look before you buy anything. They are a very popular beginner to mid-level line of e-cigs like you desire. They are what got me off of cigarettes. Wide selection of batteries and juice carrying devices. Room to advance up the ladder of gear some should you desire to. Reputable company with quality gear and fast service. Two e-juice lines.

Smokeless Image | Only The Best Electronic Cigarette | Smokeless Image Electronic Cigarettes - The Future is in your hands

 

[xanderxman]

---

If you are looking for a cig-a-like then I would suggest the Volt here Smokeless Image | The Best Electronic Cigarette

I have not used one myself but I have seen good things about them posted on ECF. You can even pick up a PCC on their site as well. This is probably the most popular cig-a-like on ECF, from what I have seen.

EDIT - Damn, Baditude beat me to it!

 

[IntelligentDesigner]

I don't recommend cig-a-likes at all. I think they're a waste of money. I tried Green Smoke as my first e-cig and it was only partially successful for only a short period of time. Then it ran out and refills are expensive. As far as cig-a-likes go though, I can't complain too much. I think for what it is, it's a decent product and their customer service is great.

I've also tried a Blu disposable. That was an emergency after I lost my battery for my 510 kit as opposed to buying the real cigarettes. It sucked. Got me through the day, but after trying other options, comparatively speaking, it sucked.

Just to reiterate, for whatever my opinion is worth, cig-a-likes are a waste of money. The only benefit is that they are more accessible than other vaporizers.

For starters, I recommend a 510 or eGo kit. There are adapters to swap parts between the two and there are thousands of options to suit whatever may be your style better and for cheaper than cig-a-likes.

I used mine for 3 months and loved it. I still have it but just to celebrate by getting a variable voltage device which rocks. I can honestly say with 99% certainty that as a result of these types of kits, I will never smoke another analog. I don't think I could say the same from sticking to the c-a-ls.

You'll find a wealth of knowledge here like no other place and from people far more knowledgeable than I. Just figured I'd throw in my and welcome you aboard and congrats and all. Best wishes to ya.

 

[tBERGz]

I started with a standard eGo kit from PbDragon.com

https://www.pbdragon.com/lair/starter-kits/474-compact-ego-vision-kit-dragon.html

Only like $21 bucks, and have had no problems with it in about a month. Don't forget ejuice though

 

[Methusalen]

Thank you again for the opinions & advice!

Xanderxman & Baditude: 2 recommendations for the same company?! Now we're getting somewhere...

IntelligentDesigner: Some very good points, and I am happy to hear that you recommend the 510's. Also good to hear that you were happy with them for as long as you used them; and even *more* so that you've still got it!

tBERGz: Again, I've held an eGo kit in my hands & still thought it was just a *little* too big... I may well consider the eGo down the line, but for *now*? It's just not what I'm looking for.

I want something that I can carry around in public without odd looks & the possibility of questions. I wouldn't mind the eGo for using at home or in tat the momenthe car, but at work or in public? I'd be more comfortable *ESPECIALLY JUST STARTING OUT*...

Unless someone comes up with another recommendation (or a link) to a *SWEET DEAL*, I think I have enough information to move forward with a purchase; once I've got my tax return back anyways!

Bills/Rent & a slightly smaller paycheck than normal put me with enough money for gas in the car & a little groceries for the week, the $20-60 for a starter kit? -Not really in the cards this week...

At least the good news here is that I can not afford to get *CIGARETTES* either!

 

[TxVpLvr]

Welcome and congrats Methusalen!

 

[Slartibartfast]

I want something that I can carry around in public without odd looks & the possibility of questions. I wouldn't mind the eGo for using at home or in tat the momenthe car, but at work or in public? I'd be more comfortable *ESPECIALLY JUST STARTING OUT*...
:

I used to feel the same way but I got so tired with being disappointed with 310 and 510 battery/carto e-cigs (I smoked a pack of reds every day for 22 years) that I just went for it and got a vv mod. After that I was kicking myself for wasting money on the "cig-a-likes" or caring at all what people thought in public. Mods are cheep now, I think if you shop around you can get a whole kit for under $60. I understand and respect your concerns with it but trust me if you ever get a VV mod with a carto-tank you will never look back.

 

[Baditude]

Thank you again for the opinions & advice!

Xanderxman & Baditude: 2 recommendations for the same company?! Now we're getting somewhere...

tBERGz: Again, I've held an eGo kit in my hands & still thought it was just a *little* too big... I may well consider the eGo down the line, but for *now*? It's just not what I'm looking for.

I want something that I can carry around in public without odd looks & the possibility of questions. I wouldn't mind the eGo for using at home or in tat the momenthe car, but at work or in public? I'd be more comfortable *ESPECIALLY JUST STARTING OUT*...

Unless someone comes up with another recommendation (or a link) to a *SWEET DEAL*, I think I have enough information to move forward with a purchase; once I've got my tax return back anyways!

Something to consider, taking into consideration of what your above expectations and preferences are:

The Smokeless Image Volts are cigarette-size batteries. The product line allows expansion to the larger eGo equivalent batteries (the X2 passthru and Volt Spinner variable voltage) once you can afford to get one, even if it is just for home use.


The X2 batteries are eGo equivalents, just with the 808 threading that Smokeless Image prefers. They are a passthru battery, which means you can use them for out-and-about, or use them with the charging cord connected to any usb port to save battery useage or while they are charging. Smokeless Image | Only The Best Electronic Cigarette | X2 Battery & Battery Accessories

Volt Spinner is Smokeless Image's re-branded Vision Spinner eGo battery. With it you can tailor the voltage of the battery to improve your enjoyment of each flavor juice you have for an improved vaping experience: Smokeless Image | Only The Best Electronic Cigarette | Volt Spinners - Variable Voltage Battery

 

[Vapoor eyes er]

Another vote for Smokeless Image. Here's the ECF Discount Code Page BUT it's under construction- usually a 15% discount code- email SI and ask:
ECF Electronic Cigarette Coupon codes « Your source for electronic cigarette discount coupons
After receiving your kit post your pic here for a freebie:
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/fo...-your-freebie-faces-volt-smokeless-image.html
SI prolly has the best customer service in the industry with a HUGE loyal following. Also ECF verified.
The Best of Luck.

 

[marine]

I am a novice so take my advice with a grain of salt ... i used the cig size for 2 months and they were a poor excuse for smoking ... i since have gone to the ego size larger batteries and things are so much nicer....... but if you have to have the small size here is a link for some cheap ones 510 T Starter Kit but I have no idea how good or bad they are ..... good luck on your quest for a tobacco free life ..

 

[Methusalen]

Baditude & Vapoor eyes er: As before, thank you. I'm definitely considering them for my first purchase...

Although....

Marine's got a rather good link there too... While I'll have to do a bit of looking into that site (find some feedback threads, etc.) to see what kind of quality products they have, it might be worth my while to drop $20 on a starter kit with them to get me started... I can swing $20 easier than I can $45+ (plus shipping?) with SI...

At the very least, it would get me started until I can afford to get something 'bigger & better'... Best of all, their stuff looks to be 510 compatible; so I can always mix & match from there!

 

[Vapoor eyes er]

At the very least, it would get me started until I can afford to get something 'bigger & better'... Best of all, their stuff looks to be 510 compatible; so I can always mix & match from there!

Realize 100 mah= 1 hr normal vaping before recharge is needed.
I will agree 510 accessories are a lot more easily found.
Pros of 510: price, small size- some vet vapers still use them when going out for the night.
Cons: user is limited to accessories that can be safely used. There's LOTS of discussion on this but basically the lowest ohms delivery device ( cartomizers, atomizers, etc) you'd be able to use are single coil 2.5 ohms. Battery life is sometimes an issue. Also the kit comes with the outdated "tank system (cartridge + atomizer). These "tanks" are prone to leakage so if you do purchase this kit consider also buying some 510 2.5 or 3.0 ohms single coil cartomizers ($7.20 for 5)

This kit, although more expensive, may be a better buy- it comes with 5 cartomizers and a PCC case- batts are 280 mah:
Electronic Cigarette - Starter Kits - Auto 510
2 x Rechargeable Auto Battery- 280 mah
5 x Blank Cartomizers
1 x Smart PCC
1 x PCC Charging Cable
You'd also need a wall adapter:
Electronic Cigarette - Chargers - Car & Wall Chargers
This kit comes with a PCC- personal charging case is a container with a battery; when you're out and about and your battery dies you can place it inside the PCC and it will charge.
Cost:
Kit- $32.49
Wall Adapter- $4.99
Total= $37.48
After 20% discount total cost= $29.98 discount coupon upper left on website.

It's your choice and we are all just trying to bring different options to the table. You could also keep an eye on this thread. For instance SI just finished a 20% off sale.
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/pay-forward-pif/85781-deals-steals-967.html
When your have made your choice prolly a good idea to post a new thread here with your order before finalizing to make sure you haven't forgotten anything.
The Very Best of Luck.

I'm not a heavy smoker, with a pack lasting me between 5-7 DAYS

It may very well be that the 510 would be perfect for you as you're not a heavy smoker.

Here's a search engine for shops throughout the U.S.- Perhaps there's a B&M nearby:
Electric Cigarette | Eliquid | Supplies | Electronic Cigarette | Ejuice | Vapor Search USA

The Very Best of Luck.

 

[Methusalen]

Vapoor eyes er: I've bit the bullet & ordered the 510 Auto kit w/ PCC from Liberty-Flights that you linked to!

I skipped the wall-adapter, as I have *PLENTY* of those (as well as the USB car adapters) lying around from various electical devices I already have... Plus, I've got a computer turned on and running most of the time as well...

They've given me the tracking number for my order, which shows that it should arrive on Monday, which gives me time to stop at that little E-Cig shop by my work; in order to pick up some e-liquid/juice for preparation of its arrival!

In the last two weeks, I have only had 1 'regular' cigarette. I have gotten by so far with the 2 paid-for (& 2 replacement/freebies I got from them) disposable Njoys (which, I *REALLY* do NOT recommend; as they didn't last NEARLY as long as they *SHOULD*!); & am looking forward to seeing what I make of this set!

Again, while i may move onto 'bigger & better' things down the line; I think I'll be happy & content with this set for a little while at least!

 

[Racehorse]

I've recently found that the town in Minnesota has a recently opened business which carries e-juice & some parts/equiptment, so I don't have to order juice & (some) replacement parts online ( ECig Crib - Get with the crowd & go smokeless, vape instead! )!

brick and mortar where you can see touch feel test the product is best bet. Let them help you.

joyetech eroll looks nice for you:
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/general-e-smoking-discussion/340059-joyetech-eroll.html

edit, oh sorry, didn't see you had already bought somethin'. Great news!

 

[Kanj.nguyen]

Actually, there is a set up that looks relatively like an analog but has gotten very good reviews: the V-Nano, plugged into a 510 battery. It lasts you longer than a carto, looks good, very portable.

Get 2 Nanos, 2 510 batteries and a PCC and youre good to go! i havent tried this yet, but i think with a screw driver you can mod the PCC to fit the Nanos as well. 2 batts and 2 Nanos in a tiny PCC, pick it up and youre good for the day

 

[jcarax]

brick and mortar where you can see touch feel test the product is best bet. Let them help you.

joyetech eroll looks nice for you:
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/forum/general-e-smoking-discussion/340059-joyetech-eroll.html

edit, oh sorry, didn't see you had already bought somethin'. Great news!

I was going to recommend the same thing. I'm pretty sure that kit is specifically designed for Methusalen.