Vape Guide
Introduction
What is Vaping?
Vaping is the act of inhaling vapor produced by an electronic device called a vaporizer or vape. These devices heat a liquid, known as e-liquid or vape juice, to create a vapor that is then inhaled. Vaping is often used as an alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes, offering a way to consume nicotine or other substances with potentially fewer harmful effects.
Types of Vapes
Vape Pens: Vape pens are pen-shaped devices that are slightly larger than cigalikes. They have a rechargeable battery and a refillable tank.
Box Mods: Box mods are larger, box-shaped devices with powerful batteries and customizable settings. They often feature variable wattage and temperature control.
Pod Systems: Pod systems use small, replaceable pods instead of tanks. They are compact and user-friendly.
Disposable Vape: A disposable vape is a type of electronic cigarette that is pre-filled with e-liquid and has a pre-charged battery. Designed for single-use, these devices are discarded once the e-liquid is depleted or the battery dies. Disposable vapes are popular for their convenience and ease of use, making them a preferred choice for beginners or those seeking a hassle-free vaping experience.
Key Features of Disposable Vapes
- Pre-Filled E-Liquid: Disposable vapes come with a set amount of e-liquid, eliminating the need for refilling.
- Pre-Charged Battery: The battery is fully charged and typically lasts until the e-liquid runs out.
- Compact and Lightweight: Small and portable, they are easy to carry and use on the go.
- No Maintenance: There’s no need to worry about coil replacements, cleaning, or other maintenance tasks.
- Variety of Flavors: Available in a wide range of flavors, including tobacco, menthol, fruit, dessert, and more.
- Nicotine Options: Often available in various nicotine strengths, including options with nicotine salts for a smoother throat hit and faster nicotine absorption.
How to Use a Disposable Vape
- Unpack: Remove the disposable vape from its packaging.
- Activate: Most disposables are draw-activated, meaning you simply inhale to produce vapor. Some may have a button to press while inhaling.
- Inhale: Take slow, steady puffs to enjoy the flavor and nicotine.
- Dispose: Once the e-liquid is finished or the battery is dead, dispose of the device responsibly according to local regulations.
Popular Brands of Disposable Vapes
- Aura Bar: Known for a wide range of flavors and reliable performance.
- Crystal Prime: Offers a satisfying experience with a focus on simplicity.
- Lost Mary: Provides a sleek design and consistent quality.
- Elf Bar: Popular for their variety of flavors and stylish design.
Components of a Vape Device
Battery
- Types: Internal batteries are built into the device, while external batteries are removable.
- Battery Safety: Always use the correct charger, avoid overcharging, and store batteries safely to prevent accidents.
Atomizer/Coil
- Types: Stock coils are pre-made and replaceable. Rebuildable coils are made by the user in rebuildable atomizers.
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Coil Resistance: Lower resistance coils (sub-ohm) produce more vapor and are used for direct-to-lung vaping. Higher resistance coils are used for mouth-to-lung vaping.
Tank/Pod
- Sub-ohm tanks: Produce large clouds and intense flavor.
- MTL tanks: Mimic the draw of a cigarette, suitable for higher nicotine levels.
- RTA (Rebuildable Tank Atomizer): Allows users to build their own coils.
- RDTA (Rebuildable Dripping Tank Atomizer): Combines features of RTA and RDA for dripping convenience with tank capacity.
E-Liquid
- Ingredients: Propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), nicotine, and flavorings.
- Nicotine Strengths: Range from 0mg to high levels (e.g., 20mg for nicotine salts).
- Choosing E-Liquid: Consider flavor preferences, nicotine strength, and VG/PG ratio. Higher VG is preferred for more vapor, while higher PG is preferred for throat hit and flavor.
How to Vape
Getting Started
- Unboxing and Setup: Charge your device, fill the tank with e-liquid, and assemble the components.
- Priming Coils: Before first use, apply a few drops of e-liquid directly to the coil to saturate the wick and prevent dry hits.
Basic Techniques
- Mouth-to-Lung (MTL): Inhale vapor into the mouth, hold, then inhale into the lungs. Similar to smoking a cigarette.
- Direct-to-Lung (DTL): Inhale vapor directly into the lungs. Produces larger clouds and is often used with sub-ohm devices.
Adjusting Settings
- Wattage/Voltage: Higher wattage/voltage produces more vapor but can lead to dry hits if not matched to the coil's rating.
- Temperature Control: Allows for a consistent temperature, preventing dry hits and extending coil life.