New to Vaping - Looking for advice on e-juice trends

[aluren]

Hi all, new to ECF here and vaping in general. A little background - I was a regular smoker (not heavy, probably half a pack a day) for about 10 years now. I was never adamant about quitting and I didn't really cared about the e-cigs. I initially thought "wow, puffing vapor, how weak.... no thanks". But over time, I started to realize all the negatives of smoking cigs - health issues, cost of cigarettes, bad smell, etc.

So I finally decided to try an e-cig, went online and did some research (outside of ECF) and found V2cigs. The website looked very professional and I like how it physically looked like a cigarette. I bought the starter kit for about $50. After a couple puffs, I found that the vapor production was so bad and very disappointing. I went back to smoking real cigs again. But I didn't give up on researching vaping online. After reading through this forum on the types of mods, I thought, why not go for a really expensive high end mod so that I will feel guilty if I don't use it. I bought the Provari Mini and now I'm a believer!

Now that I have the Provari, the next step would be juices. I bought a sampler juice pack from Provape and choose the 18mg nicotine, figuring that it'll be a good amount to start. But I found that it is too strong when inhaling the vape. Provape doesn't say what % of PG/VG their juices are, so I'm not sure if that's a factor to the tough inhaling.

I guess my question is, what type of e-juice did you start off with and what became your preference over time? I know I don't like the 18mg nicotine, so I ordered another round of e-juice, this time with 12mg and 6mg nicotine. I'm also going to try PG/VG of 30/70, 50/50, 70/30, and 100 VG just to see what I like. Eventually I'll find the vapor amount, throat hit, and flavor that I prefer and just order a bazillion gallons of it.

 

[happigrinz]

Quick question, you have a Provari, but what kind of atty are you using? Reason I ask is, in personal experience, when I use my Protank (with a modified atty head ) I can vape at 11mg no problem, but if I use that same juice in one of my drippers, it tears me up and I need to use 3-5mg for a good vape.

Personally, I started with 18mg - 50/50, but now found my sweet spot at 11mg 50/50 (in tanks), 3mg 30/70 for my drippers. Reason being, VG is a thicker cloud, but also is a thicker liquid (can clog up smaller atty heads, wont flow freely through small channels in some devices, ect). 100% VG is almost too thick, and I don't like dripping stuff that looks like honey on my wicks. It's all about preference though. Hope this helps!

 

[Dana A]

Sounds like you have made good choices. Some staple places are Mountain baker vaper. They have good e liquids at a low price. I hear their cinnamon roll is good. I loved the butterscotch and sticky bun. Alice in vapeland. I haven't tried them but people seem to love it. Heathers heavenly vapes. Once again I have never tried them but many here love them. Mrs Ts bakery has some really good stuff. Alien visions is popular for Boba's bounty. I have heard of a famous liquid called grants vanilla custard but haven't tried it. He only sells the one flavor I think and it's really popular. Some of these liquid vendors are only open for hours a week before they have a weeks worth of orders to fill. That's not really my cup of tea so I haven't tried most of them but they must be good or people wouldn't stay up late or get up early just top order from them. Your Provari was a great investment. Trying different ratios of PG VG and different nic strengths was a great idea. It will really help you to find what you really like faster. You are making informed decisions and that will save you money. I am sure others will be along to give more ideas for liquids soon.

 

[KBMP529]

Taste is subjective Only way you will know is by trial & error. And if you try something and don't like it just put is aside. Your taste buds may change as you get further away from burning tobacco and what may suck now may surprise you in a few weeks. Another factor is that some juices take time to "steep" (age like wine) in order to meld flavor correctly.

I also just swapped a few juices I didn't care for with a coworker.

 

[aluren]

I'm using the Kanger Protank 2 stock. I read up on the ohms/volts thing and I tuned it to the recommended levels (2.7 ohm and 3.4 volts). Is the harshness of the 18mg just something I'm not used to or is it something to do with my setup?

Thanks for the info. I didn't think about the 100 VG thick cloud/clog issue. Let's see how good this Protank 2 is. lol

 

[aluren]

Taste is subjective Only way you will know is by trial & error. And if you try something and don't like it just put is aside. Your taste buds may change as you get further away from burning tobacco and what may suck now may surprise you in a few weeks. Another factor is that some juices take time to "steep" (age like wine) in order to meld flavor correctly.

I also just swapped a few juices I didn't care for with a coworker.

Or maybe I will develop the vape tongue and I will taste nothing! lol...

 

[happigrinz]

Ah! Another thing to note... remember your senses do get accustomed to the same song and dance and flavors will tend to lose it's 'punch' if you keep vaping the same over and over. It's like, people smelling coffee beans when trying colognes/perfumes or eating ginger between sushi to cleanse the palate. Switch between sweets, sours and throw in a tobacco-based flavor into your rotation to keep your taste buds wondering what's next.

 

[Sweetab]

Congrats on quitting the stinkies! Check out my thread on the best gourmet ejuice. http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/fo...ssion/474456-best-gourmet-ejuice-vendors.html

You're in Los Angeles? They have the best vape scene in the country! You should check out some local vape shops! I was just down there, and was blown away at the possibilities!

 

[aluren]

Congrats on quitting the stinkies! Check out my thread on the best gourmet ejuice. http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/fo...ssion/474456-best-gourmet-ejuice-vendors.html

You're in Los Angeles? They have the best vape scene in the country! You should check out some local vape shops! I was just down there, and was blown away at the possibilities!

Nice thread and thanks for the info. Yeah I need to stop by the shops one day. I think I pass by 3 or 4 everyday on my way to work everyday.

 

[aluren]

How many tanks do you guys have? Since I only have one, it's too tedious to pour one juice out, wash tank, then pour another... I'm thinking about buying another Protank or maybe try some other tank...

 

[happigrinz]

How many tanks do you guys have? Since I only have one, it's too tedious to pour one juice out, wash tank, then pour another... I'm thinking about buying another Protank or maybe try some other tank...

Eventually, you'll build a collection of tanks, drippers, cartos, and all sorts of other goodies, I'm sure. As for now, I suggest if you want to rotate different flavors, just get a few more tanks, fill em up with different liqs and swap out as you please. The smaller kinds ("clearomizers" - Novas, Protanks, EVODs, etc) are cheap enough to buy several different ones as opposed to the larger, rebuildable ones (Kayfuns, Genesis-style systems, etc) that will set you back a pretty penny.

If you have a Protank now, I don't suggest getting another - not because it's not a good product (I own 2 myself), but there is so many others for you to try out! Do you want a top-fed or bottom-fed clearo? Do you want a disposable clearo or one with a rebuildable head? Or do you want to go a different route and buy a cartotank? You'll never know until you have a chance to see what you like/dislike about the different products offered.

It's almost overwhelming by the amount of different vendors and products that are out there, but if you stick to the ones with good reviews that come from reputable vendors/companies, you'll definitely save yourself the hassle of wasting your money on sub-par tank systems.

Just my 3 cents.
(yes, 3 )

 

[tearose50]

How many tanks do you guys have? Since I only have one, it's too tedious to pour one juice out, wash tank, then pour another... I'm thinking about buying another Protank or maybe try some other tank...

I strongly suggest you pick up a couple more atomizing devices/toppers. It's nice to switch out flavors and so easy when you have more toppers. Plus, it is always a must to have a back up or two. I'll be bold and suggest Discount Vapors. I happen to like the Aspire line, but he always has an interesting selection, great service and keeps up with the trends.

I believe the story is -- more VG for plume and more PG for flavor and throat hit. I often use a 60/40 (PG is usually stated first). I think most find it best to use a blend of both PG and VG.

Also, to curb the harshness I first got when vaping, I don't vape the same as I did a cig. I do a few draws and then inhale. Give it a try. I am still thankful to the poster that mentioned this method here on the forum quite sometime ago.

Since you are in LA, you could easily go to a couple of vape stores and try several brands and flavors as many of them are set up to provide tasting service. Then, you can refine this after you get a better idea of what you prefer both taste and PG/VG blend ratio and have fun trying the favorite vendors of your friends here at ECF.

P.S. -- I have a feeling you will like 12mg for now. Maybe save that 18 for the morning or the "tough" times.

Happy vaping!

 

[aluren]

Eventually, you'll build a collection of tanks, drippers, cartos, and all sorts of other goodies, I'm sure. As for now, I suggest if you want to rotate different flavors, just get a few more tanks, fill em up with different liqs and swap out as you please. The smaller kinds ("clearomizers" - Novas, Protanks, EVODs, etc) are cheap enough to buy several different ones as opposed to the larger, rebuildable ones (Kayfuns, Genesis-style systems, etc) that will set you back a pretty penny.

If you have a Protank now, I don't suggest getting another - not because it's not a good product (I own 2 myself), but there is so many others for you to try out! Do you want a top-fed or bottom-fed clearo? Do you want a disposable clearo or one with a rebuildable head? Or do you want to go a different route and buy a cartotank? You'll never know until you have a chance to see what you like/dislike about the different products offered.

It's almost overwhelming by the amount of different vendors and products that are out there, but if you stick to the ones with good reviews that come from reputable vendors/companies, you'll definitely save yourself the hassle of wasting your money on sub-par tank systems.

Just my 3 cents.
(yes, 3 )

I just bought an Aspire Nautilus. lol... I should try different tanks like you mentioned, but probably keep it to no more than 5 tanks. The amount of tanks out there is remarkable! I think once I get a sense of how long these coils last, and the hassle of buying/replacing coils, I might find myself looking at rebuildables. And even though the initial cost is higher (most good quality ones are over $100), I think it will save me money in the long run.

 

[aluren]

I strongly suggest you pick up a couple more atomizing devices/toppers. It's nice to switch out flavors and so easy when you have more toppers. Plus, it is always a must to have a back up or two. I'll be bold and suggest Discount Vapors. I happen to like the Aspire line, but he always has an interesting selection, great service and keeps up with the trends.

I believe the story is -- more VG for plume and more PG for flavor and throat hit. I often use a 60/40 (PG is usually stated first). I think most find it best to use a blend of both PG and VG.

Also, to curb the harshness I first got when vaping, I don't vape the same as I did a cig. I do a few draws and then inhale. Give it a try. I am still thankful to the poster that mentioned this method here on the forum quite sometime ago.

Since you are in LA, you could easily go to a couple of vape stores and try several brands and flavors as many of them are set up to provide tasting service. Then, you can refine this after you get a better idea of what you prefer both taste and PG/VG blend ratio and have fun trying the favorite vendors of your friends here at ECF.

P.S. -- I have a feeling you will like 12mg for now. Maybe save that 18 for the morning or the "tough" times.

Happy vaping!

I tried doing a couple draws first and then inhale, but I still feel the harshness. I just bought a couple 6mg nic juices, but I will try the 12mg once the 6mg runs out. Or maybe 0mg is the appropriate place to end up, just to see whether I'm truly addicted to nicotine or just the habit of 'smoking' something.

 

[happigrinz]

I just bought an Aspire Nautilus. lol... I should try different tanks like you mentioned, but probably keep it to no more than 5 tanks. The amount of tanks out there is remarkable! I think once I get a sense of how long these coils last, and the hassle of buying/replacing coils, I might find myself looking at rebuildables. And even though the initial cost is higher (most good quality ones are over $100), I think it will save me money in the long run.

I've heard good things about the Nautilus, good purchase. Also, don't be afraid to take the plunge into the clone wars. Now, I don't want to turn this into a clone vs authentic discussion, but in my honest opinion, there is nothing wrong with rocking clones. I'm not knockin rockin authentics either... I just personally wouldn't shell out $150 for something when there is an identical product that is much more budget-friendly. Do your research though... there are crap clones (*cough*Squape*cough*) and there are others that perform just as good as their counterparts.

 

[aluren]

I've heard good things about the Nautilus, good purchase. Also, don't be afraid to take the plunge into the clone wars. Now, I don't want to turn this into a clone vs authentic discussion, but in my honest opinion, there is nothing wrong with rocking clones. I'm not knockin rockin authentics either... I just personally wouldn't shell out $150 for something when there is an identical product that is much more budget-friendly. Do your research though... there are crap clones (*cough*Squape*cough*) and there are others that perform just as good as their counterparts.

Good to know. I might try that Kayfun Lite Black Edition on ebay for $50...

 

[aluren]

My Kanger Protank 2 is now leaking into the battery. I could see the juices seeping into it. I switched to the other coil that came in the box and for some reason it doesn't light up. Very disappointed in this. I will never buy a Kanger product again. My Nautilus can't come soon enough!

 

[tearose50]

I've found that sometimes when I replace coil heads if I don't get them on just right, it will not fire. They may not be inserted far enough.
The "pin" (bottom of the coil head) needs to be flush or just a hair extended beyond the chamber you put it into. This "pin" must touch the "pin" on your device. If not, it will never fire as there is no contact to the power source.

I don't know the details of ProTanks leaking, but if it is just a drop I wouldn't be concerned. Just clean it off. This can easily occur and I find it sometimes means it's time to change the "topper"/coil or will be shortly.

Vaping can be a bit "futzy" from time to time. Try not to get too frustrated if things aren't perfect all the time.

 

[edyle]

How many tanks do you guys have? Since I only have one, it's too tedious to pour one juice out, wash tank, then pour another... I'm thinking about buying another Protank or maybe try some other tank...

Not counting the 5 or 10 plastic tanks that I no longer use; I have 4 protanks, and recently got 11 miniprotanks. Got enough mini's to give away to smokers.

And got a genisis last week.

 

[edyle]

I've found that sometimes when I replace coil heads if I don't get them on just right, it will not fire. They may not be inserted far enough.
The "pin" (bottom of the coil head) needs to be flush or just a hair extended beyond the chamber you put it into. This "pin" must touch the "pin" on your device. If not, it will never fire as there is no contact to the power source.

I don't know the details of ProTanks leaking, but if it is just a drop I wouldn't be concerned. Just clean it off. This can easily occur and I find it sometimes means it's time to change the "topper"/coil or will be shortly.

Vaping can be a bit "futzy" from time to time. Try not to get too frustrated if things aren't perfect all the time.

Actually it's better it sticks out a clear millimeter or 2 and not just be flush with the bottom. If it is flush with the bottom the only advantage is the tank might me able to stand upright on a flat surface.

And if the pin does not reach down far enough, the electrical contact just wont be made