Overwhelmed with all the information

[Onuris]

I've been curious about e-cigs and about switching to them from regular cigarettes for a long time now, but I'd never really made an effort to get into it since my smoking hadn't had many serious effects on my health and well-being until recently. After five years of half a pack of menthols a day, on average, I've grown tired of the nasty taste in my mouth, the constant phlegm in my throat. And now that I'm biking and running and exercising again, and having difficulties breathing, I think it's time to make a switch. I recently moved down to Texas and have made a lot of changes in my life thus far, and I want this one to be one of them.

I can't give up nicotine/smoking completely, not yet. I quit drinking some time ago after, well, after getting into a whole lot of trouble. Without drinking, smoking is one of my major stress relievers. So I read through the Beginner guides in the Info Zone, but I'm still just overwhelmed with a lot of the information–where to buy from (especially this, as the list of vendors is extremely intimidating and confusing since I don't know what's good or bad about each one), what exactly to buy, what everything means–and I could use some help figuring that out (or just a link to something that would be a good buy).

Any help, assistance, guides would be much appreciated. Thanks.

 

[lotsoffish]

You basically need a couple batteries, a charger, a few cartomizers and some liquids.



I have bought ALL that stuff from this vendor with absolutely zero issues and I believe they have very competitive prices.

KGO kit1100mAh by SLB

 

[TarFreeMe]

Congratulations on step 1 first of all.

You came to the right place. Unfortunately, I can't really help you with what the best starter kits are as I kind of skipped a few steps. I can tell you that someone will be along shortly to give you that info.

You may be surprised how easily and how fast you can quit smoking. Just keep in mind that every cigarette you avoid is a win. You'll probably have tons of wins in a short period of time and will likely soon be disgusted by the thought of lighting another cigarette.

Good luck on your journey.

 

[Vapoor eyes er]

Hi and welcome to ECF. The PV you purchase will be dependent on:
the size you want- cig sized, sharpie pen sized or tube sized.
the amount of analogs you smoked per day and the brand
how much you are able to spend- good starter kits start at $50.00 and run all the way up to $300.00.

 

[Onuris]

Hi and welcome to ECF. The PV you purchase will be dependent on:
the size you want- cig sized, sharpie pen sized or tube sized.
the amount of analogs you smoked per day and the brand
how much you are able to spend- good starter kits start at $50.00 and run all the way up to $300.00.

I guess I'd prefer something on the smaller side. It's not a big deal to me at this point. And I typically jump between Marlboro Menthols and Marlboro Black menthols, of which I'd go through three to four packs a week. As for pricing, I'm kind of broke so I was hoping to stay around 50$ or less.

 

[Meggalette]

Congrats on deciding to make the switch! Every person finds satisfaction in a different setup, so no single person will be able to tell you what will work for you. What I did was buy a super cheap starter kit and used that while I researched different setups. Read as much as you can stand on ECF and browse different online vendors, you would be surprised how much you can learn from the people trying to sell this stuff.

 

[Mroutlaw]

Check out the smokeless image volt. It is roughly the same size of a cigarette .... is very powerful for a mini. The 78 mm battery last 3 to 4 hours of moderate vaping. The cartos last a long time and can be refilled several times. They also don't burn as easily as others. Is very reasonably priced and there is also a 15% off coupon. Smokeless image also has a customer service that is second to none and fast shipping. I quit a 1 1/2 pack a day habit the first day that I got my kit. Here's a video demonstrating the volt. It's more of a "how-to" and "tips and tricks" video. It will show you everything you need to get started. It also demonstrates the X2, which is an ego style battery, this way you can see the difference.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELM4QhceR7o

 

[elothen]

I TOTALLY understand where you're coming from man. It's easy to go snow blind with all the info. I lucked out and a shop opened right by the house. I just checked there site and they've got one in San Antonio which isn't all that far away. If I were you I'd head there this weekend and sit down with them.
San Antonio, TX

Now I'll tell you straight up they're more expensive than buying online. What you get in exchange for that is they let you try before you buy, you get to sample flavors, and you get to ask questions 'til you're blue in the face. They'll probably recommend you buy an EGO starting kit and they'll charge $100 whereas you can get it online for $50. Although I generally hate paying more than I have to for anything this has been such a life changing experience for my wife and I that I was able to let it slide. The flavor tasting is really the best part though. You simply can't get that online. They'll also tweak the juice up in NIC if you need that. I'd recommend getting at least 1 flavor in 24mg to really make sure you're craving is satisfied. They get $18/30mil bottle which is pretty much the going rate, so on that they do pretty well.

If you gotta save the $50 and/or don't wanna make the drive then I'd suggest you buy this
KGO Long Wick Vision Ego Kit (V2)
and a liquid and get started. Select one with the SR option (Standard Resistance, it'll make sense later).

IMO there's no way to prevent wasting some money getting started, unless you just luck out and the first thing completely trips your trigger and you're done. However, my wife and I have spent about a grand so far and in 5 months, factoring in our ongoing costs to vape, we'll have broken even when taking money not spent on cigarettes into account. Our recurring cost from then on out for 2 chain vapers is about $50/month (used to spend $225+ on cigs).

Don't let that $1,000 thing scare you. This turned into a hobby for us real quick and we gave a bunch of stuff to friends and family because we're just so excited about it all.

Just jump in and do it man. Life is SOOO much better on the other side!

 

[Got-Ta-Go]

lotsoffish gave you a great direction above on the kGO package; many of us successfully started with it.

When you order it, be sure and pick up a few empty cartomizers Boge 2.0ohm LR 510 cartomizers 5 pack, maybe a clearomizer to try EGO Vision clearomizers LR 2.1-2.4ohm, and pick a couple of e-liquids to start with.

You'd be set.

 

[Seawolfe]

Welcome! It is kind of confusing huh? You dont want to spend a ton of money, but you also want it to work!

I got this kit for my hubby and one for me: http://www.hitliquid.com/Ego-C-Tank-Starter-Kit-1100-mah-battery_p_102.html
I chose the eGo C because I can adapt later to other mods, because the batteries are good (one charge lasts all day at work and well into the evening for me) it has two complete e-cig set ups plus 5 tanks and 5 atomizers (so lots of spares). This company offered a choice of liquids and they were nice enough to send another little e-liquid sample.

Its super easy to use. Get whatever you think gives you the best chance to actually use without getting frustrated or running out of battery charge and spare bits. That KGO linked to upstream looks very nice, is a great price and you get a choice in how it looks! If going to a brick and mortar shop would help - go for it!

I've only been doing this a week, and I did order a bunch of e-liquids because lets face it - analog cigs taste like ... and e-liquids are fun to try.

 

[Vapoor eyes er]

Smokeless Image is the best cig sized PV out there with many loyal followers. They prolly have the best customer service in the industry.
Smokeless Image | Only The Best Electronic Cigarette | Electronic Cigarettes | Wholesale Electronic Cigarettes | E-Cigarette | Best Electronic Cigarette | Electronic Cigarette
15% discount off your entire order Code: SIVOLT50
And after you receive your volt post your pic here for a great freebie
http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/fo...-your-freebie-faces-volt-smokeless-image.html

I don't own a Volt but a friend does and they LOVE it. Easy enuff to recommend a top notch company like SI.
The Very Best of Luck to You.

I guess I'd prefer something on the smaller side. It's not a big deal to me at this point. And I typically jump between Marlboro Menthols and Marlboro Black menthols, of which I'd go through three to four packs a week. As for pricing, I'm kind of broke so I was hoping to stay around 50$ or less.

 

[jhecht4]

I quit smoking in 3 days with the elips. Its a awsome kit and it is little. Nice and descrete when you go in public

 

[lonnieperrin]

I would recommend you google (e cig reviews youtube)
Getting familiar with the world of vaping and all that it has to offer may provide some insight to your future experience.

 

[cindycated]

Here I am, 15 months into vaping, and I still can't say that I've quit smoking (even though I haven't had an analog since I received my first starter kit), because it doesn't feel like I have. For me, the transition from analogs to ecigs was very smooth - I just replaced one habit for another and don't feel like I've given up anything at all. You do notice it quickly in your health though - it's like night and day, and you'll never know how healthy you can feel until you put those nasty analogs down. If you plan to get physical again, it would really behoove you to quit smoking. And if the ill effects of smoking haven't hit you that hard yet, don't wait until they do, because they get really nasty.

As for what to get, keep it simple, stick to the basics, and just jump into it - you'll drive yourself nuts with too much research. You need 2-3 batteries, a USB charger dongle, some cartos, and some e-liquid. Try to find a company that has a 30-day money-back guarantee (lots of different gear out there to try) and a decent warranty on hardware (electronic equipment after all). Start with menthol, but don't stop there - keep an open mind, and let your imagination be your guide. I smoked menthol too - I started with menthol e-liquid, but now I vape whatever dessert craving I'm having - which has made me even healthier, cuz I have a crazy sweet tooth, and haven't had sugar for over a year now! Score!

Good luck!

 

[lotsoffish]

lotsoffish gave you a great direction above on the kGO package; many of us successfully started with it.

When you order it, be sure and pick up a few empty cartomizers Boge 2.0ohm LR 510 cartomizers 5 pack, maybe a clearomizer to try EGO Vision clearomizers LR 2.1-2.4ohm, and pick a couple of e-liquids to start with.

You'd be set.

Well thanks for the "I second that kit".

I like recommending that kit cuz it comes with 2 atomizers and 2 drip tips which means a beginner can also do a little dripping if they are "jonesing" for a cigarette at first.

I'll tell you, I think we tend to totally overwhelm folks who first show up here who have never vaped before. I sure was at first. If we can just get them to pick up a kit like that with good power, good battery life, a couple atomizer's along with some Boge LR cartomizers I think just about anyone stands a pretty good chance at finally quitting smoking.

I do agree with your recommendation they try one of those EGO Vision clearomizers but that's what the second orders for. LOL! I saved a lot of money by going into this slowly. Hell, I just finally tried out a twist battery last week but the funny thing is all my "stuff" is geared towards 3.7-4.2 volt batteries so I didn't even really need a twist cuz those Kgo's are smaller and fire everything I have just fine anyway.

Actually that twist does do a better job firing some DC carts I had laying around for a couple tanks I sometimes use so it wasn't a complete waste of money.

 

[Pappy]

If you're closer to Round Rock than San Antonio, you could also visit LiquidXpress. They have a store in Round Rock on I-35 just north of the 45 Toll Road.

Liquidxpress
1050 Sam Bass Rd Ste 305
Round Rock, TX 78681
Toll Free: # 855.242.0262

It really helps to be able to hold an e-cig in your hand instead of just seeing pictures of it online, and having someone explain how it works. It's worth the extra cost, in my opinion, because it helps you get off to a better start. And you can try juices to see what you like and avoid spending money on juices that sound great but taste terrible to you.

 

[Got-Ta-Go]

Here is another option for you.

How about a kit that is designed for the beginner, is very complete, yet has equipment in it to give you a lot of future use? You pay more for this on the front end, but I suspect that in the long run you'll get more use out of it--therefore, it will save you money.

Take a look at the Punch Kit review https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7CYFdT_n7o&feature=relmfu. Heck, just having instructions to follow when you're first starting goes a long way.

(And no, I don't want to start a "variable voltage device for first time user" debate).

 

[Berylanna]

Lol, so was I overwhelmed. A Mr. Lockaby posted this in my newbie thread and now, $400 later, I "get it." It's hilarious.

The progression of a vaper
4 Stages of Vaping - YouTube

If you need to start inexpensively, I agree with the folks that say get 2 78mm Smokeless Image batteries, I suggest one automatic and one manual, so you can try both and so you can try the manual with things that are a little too tricky with automatics. Also, a usb charger, and they have 2 wall adapters, GET THE BIGGER one, that says it will power their pass-throughs. The little one turns out to be a waste of money over time, it is too limited. And order a flavor sample pack. I think that should do it and be pretty cheap.

If you KNOW you want to vape and want to skip months of expensive experimentation, get 2 ego Twists and a Vivi Nova and a usb charger for the twists, and some pre-filled cartomizers from any major 510 vendor. Or skip the cartos and get a mini-ViVi Nova for your backup vaping device until Boge fixes its Q.A. problems. But then you'll need juice. If you want a tobacco flavor I suggest 555 from Smokeless Image or else look at the juice forums. Otherwise I hear Vape Dudes has some of the best juice.

(Smokeless Image, Bloog, and I guess Halo, have a "type" called kr808d-1's, AKA 808's, that are easier to use and more consistent than many things on the market, but harder to find parts for once you want to get exotic. Most other vendors sell "510" types that are compatible with just about everything everywhere, but difficult to get in "automatics" and usually not voltage-regulated for consistency unless they are VV, "Variable Voltage", i.e. settable voltage.)

I'm currently using 2 Smokeless Image larger batteries and 1 eGo Twist, and I have 2 smaller Smokeless Image 78 mms but only for occasions where I want to vape something small and don't mind having to recharge.

 

[Mullet Night]

Yeah I'm right there with ya on information overload. I can feel it leaking out my ears the more i read. Thats when i know its time to take a break lol

 

[dayworks]

I've been curious about e-cigs and about switching to them from regular cigarettes for a long time now, but I'd never really made an effort to get into it since my smoking hadn't had many serious effects on my health and well-being until recently. After five years of half a pack of menthols a day, on average, I've grown tired of the nasty taste in my mouth, the constant phlegm in my throat. And now that I'm biking and running and exercising again, and having difficulties breathing, I think it's time to make a switch. I recently moved down to Texas and have made a lot of changes in my life thus far, and I want this one to be one of them.

I can't give up nicotine/smoking completely, not yet. I quit drinking some time ago after, well, after getting into a whole lot of trouble. Without drinking, smoking is one of my major stress relievers. So I read through the Beginner guides in the Info Zone, but I'm still just overwhelmed with a lot of the information–where to buy from (especially this, as the list of vendors is extremely intimidating and confusing since I don't know what's good or bad about each one), what exactly to buy, what everything means–and I could use some help figuring that out (or just a link to something that would be a good buy).

Any help, assistance, guides would be much appreciated. Thanks.

Onuris, I'm in your area (more or less) and would be happy to help out. Get in touch via a message on this board if you would care for some assistance. I promise not to kill and eat you.