Some questions about making the step to mods....

[Pyloric Thinker]

I started vaping fairly recently and must say I've been totally blown away by the experience! It's been about 2 weeks now and I only smoked 2 analogs in the first couple days to initial frustration and a lack of preparation for my pv. I have a Riva which I totally love for an around-town pv and a 5V PT on the way. My next step is mods. I'm pretty set on what I'll purchase (an Ali'i and Ikenvape's pv when it comes out)

My questions are about batteries. There are so many different kinds; protected, safe-chemistry, etc. What do you use? and more importantly, Where do you get your batteries/chargers? I've looked quite a few places and have seen pretty big differences in prices. I'm looking for 16340 (3 and 3.7V) and 18650 3.7V.

WRT chargers I see all sorts of universal chargers, but then I read warnings about being careful about what charger to use (i.e. 16340 3Vs need specific chargers?) Are there truly universal chargers out there? Are they reliable? Can they be switched from 3V to 3.7V output?
I know that's a lot, but you all have been so helpful and know that you are appreciated (at least by this guy!)

Ryan

 

[hiram13pm]

Dealextreme for both batteries and chargers. Make sure they are protected batteries... these incorporate an internal cutoff circuit to prevent venting, i.e. sudden catastrophic discharge. Best prices, free shipping, and I've never had a problem. They are in Hong Kong, so expect to wait a couple of weeks... but that's where I get mine.

Search in - Battery, Batteries, Rechargeable Battery, Lithium Battery, Cell Batteries on Sale - DealExtreme

 

[cskent]

Here's where I've been getting my batt's and chargers Welcome to MadVapes LLC. Their prices are reasonable and they have a good selection. I wish they'd carry AW's as I'd like to try them. You might find better prices elsewhere, but Madvapes is a good reliable hardware vendor. They also carry mods and mod kits as well as pieces/parts for building your own.
I've got a couple of the Ultrafire 3000mah 18650's and haven't had a problem with them or the universal chargers I've got. I also have a bunch of Ultrafire and Trustfire 16340's and haven't had a problem charging them on the same units. They're a little short for some universal chargers though so make sure they'll fit the one you're looking for before you buy it.
Somewhere I read about a universal charger that uses a voltage sensor to adjust the charge voltage to the battery you've put on it, but I don't remember where I saw it anymore. Maybe someone else can provide that information.

 

[hiram13pm]

+1 on Madvapes for parts, if you're building your own. I get cartos from them sometimes, too.