Monday, February 24, 2025

HellVape Trishul V2 Semi-Mech Mod Review

 Some mods are built to be workhorses. Others? They’re made to turn heads. The HellVape Trishul V2 Semi-Mech Mod falls somewhere in between—a stunning, hard-hitting device that’s as much about performance as it is about style. Consider this the GOAT (Greatest Of All Tubes) for vapers who want to herd clouds without sacrificing safety.



Disclaimer: This review is not sponsored. I purchased the HellVape Trishul V2 Semi-Mech Mod and the RDA with my own money. My opinions are entirely my own and have not been influenced by the manufacturer in any way.

First Impressions & Build Quality

The first thing you notice about the Trishul V2 is its sheer presence. It’s hefty, solid, and feels like a proper mechanical mod should—no rattles, no cheap parts, just a well-machined hunk of metal built to take a beating.



The hourglass shape is a standout feature, making it comfortable to hold and use. The threading is buttery smooth, and the Trishul logo is deeply engraved, adding a touch of class. The mod comes in three sections: the top cap, the main body, and the switch assembly at the bottom.




Inside the top housing, you’ll find both the Hellchip semi-mechanical adapter and the adapter to convert the Trishul V2 semi-mech mod into a full mech mod. These are very tightly fitted into the housing, particularly the Hellchip safety adapter, and you’ll need to push them out from the 510 side. While the full mech adapter goes back in quite easily, the Hellchip requires a fair bit of force to get it back in place, and I would worry about the longevity of this if you were inserting and removing it frequently. As you can see from the photo below, I’ve already managed to gouge a couple of chunks out of it!







This should be fitted with the Hellchip logo at the top towards the 510 and the plus symbol facing down into the battery tube. This provides your mech mod training wheels with basic protections:

  • Short circuit
  • Low voltage
  • 10s cutoff
  • Over temperature protection

I can tell you that the low voltage protection works and cuts you off when your battery reaches about 3.3 volts. Reverse battery protection isn’t mentioned and, for obvious reasons, I decided not to check for this myself!

I paired it with my trusty Goon V1.5 RDA, and the brass-on-brass combo looks incredible. It’s almost too good to mess with, but I did test a 30mm RipSaw on it to see how a larger RDA would fit. While the proportions weren’t quite right, it confirmed my suspicion that a 25mm RDA would be the sweet spot. I’ll be keeping an eye out for one that matches the aesthetic as well as the Goon does.



One small gripe? The polished brass finish. It’s a fingerprint magnet, and I can already tell it’s going to develop patina quickly. If you like that aged brass look, you’ll love it. If not, get ready to polish it frequently.

Battery Fit & Performance

The Trishul V2 is compatible with both 18650 and 21700 batteries, and I tested both.



  • 18650 with adapter: Works fine, but felt a little underpowered.


  • 21700: This is where the magic happens. The battery fits snugly with zero rattle, and the extra power is noticeable.


I started my testing by removing the chip and running it in full mech mode. Mind blown. I’ve used mechs before, but only with 18650s, and the 21700 really elevates the experience. The extra power means denser clouds, a harder hit, and overall better performance.

Switching back to Semi-Mech mode is effortless. The HellChip makes a noticeable difference—not just in safety but also in the overall experience. The vape feels more consistent and controlled, and, if I’m honest, flavour and cloud production actually seem better with the chip installed. Maybe it’s just the peace of mind knowing I’m less likely to turn myself into a cautionary tale, but either way, I’ll take it.

Fire Button & Controversy

Now, let’s talk about the fire button, because this seems to be a love-it-or-hate-it topic in the mech mod community.



HellVape went with a magnetic switch, and if you’ve used a mech with one before, you might have some concerns. On other mods, these switches can be finicky, sometimes failing to make solid contact, requiring a bit of wiggling or extra pressure to fire properly.

Not here.

The Trishul’s switch is flawless. It fires instantly, every time, with no fuss, no misfires, no weird contact issues. The tactile feel is fantastic—almost like pressing a mechanical switch on a gaming keyboard. No kid gloves needed here; this button is as reliable as a mountain goat on a cliffside.

The switch itself is the same as the one used on the earlier Trishul V2 Mech mod and uses a constant contact system along with a rather unique magnet system to eliminate arcing wear on your batteries. It also features an upper rubber section that automatically takes up any battery rattle.




This is easily disassembled for cleaning, and there’s a silver-plated canted coil spring in the base around the button to make the contact between the button and housing more reliable. The magnets actually hold the switch open, and you push them apart when you press the button. This is the opposite of what you would normally expect, but it’s worked flawlessly for me.




One thing that does appear to be absent in this release is a plastic liner in the battery tube, which would have provided an extra layer of safety. I’m guessing that would make the use of the Hellchip technically difficult to implement.

Final Thoughts

The Trishul V2 Semi-Mech Mod isn’t just a mod—it’s a statement piece. It hits hard, it looks stunning, and the switch is one of the best I’ve ever used on a mech.

That said, it’s not my new daily driver. This is the kind of mod I’ll bring out on special occasions, not because it’s too fancy to use regularly, but because it’s just too damn pretty. Also, with how rare these are becoming, it feels a little special to own one.



Pros & Cons

✔️ Solid, high-quality build – No rattles, no cheap parts.
✔️ Powerful performance – Especially with a 21700 battery.
✔️ Semi-Mech mode adds safety and consistency.
✔️ Flawless fire button – No misfires, smooth actuation.
✔️ Looks incredible in brass.
Polished finish picks up fingerprints like crazy.
Patina will develop quickly—polish it or embrace the aged look.
Larger RDAs (30mm) don’t fit aesthetically.

If you’re looking for a hard-hitting mech that balances raw power with modern safety features, the Trishul V2 is one of the best options out there. Just be prepared to either embrace the fingerprints or keep a polishing cloth handy.

For more reviews, check out my blog: Old Goat Vapes. Until next time, keep your coils tight and your clouds fluffy—this mod may not be the GOAT of all mechs, but it sure knows how to herd clouds like one! 🐐

Friday, January 24, 2025

MOTI Play Pod Mod – Full Review

 

Hey guys, Old Goat here. Today, we’re taking a look at the MOTI Play Pod Mod—a little device I stumbled upon at Comic-Con Africa, thanks to Darth Vapor Corp. I was on the lookout for something new, and this one caught my eye. Slim, compact, and packed with features—it had my attention from the start.

But the real question is: Is it the Greatest Of All Time, or just another pod lost in the herd? Let’s dive in.


First Impressions: Small but Mighty

Right out of the box, the MOTI Play stands out. It’s thin, lightweight, and about the size of a credit card—perfect for slipping into a pocket. At just 12.5mm thick, it feels sleek in the hand, and despite its size, it’s got some serious metal and PC build quality that gives it a premium feel.          




I went with the black version, but there are plenty of colour options to match your style. It also features a 0.96” screen, which is impressive for a device this small. You can see your wattage, voltage, puff count, and battery life at a glance, which is a nice touch.

First thoughts? It looks good, feels good, and has all the makings of a solid stealthy vape. But does it perform?


Performance: Flavour That Packs a Punch

For something this compact, the MOTI Play brings some serious flavour to the table. It comes with a 0.45Ω mesh coil, and let me tell you—this thing slaps. The flavour is clean, crisp, and surprisingly strong for a pod mod. The coil design, combined with their new-gen cotton tech, really brings out the nuances in your e-liquid.

And let’s talk customization—this thing has a 360° airflow control knob that lets you switch between MTL (mouth-to-lung) and DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping. It’s rare to see that level of control in a pod device, and it actually works! Dial it down for a tight MTL pull or open it up for a restricted lung hit.


Another huge plus? The 510 drip tip compatibility. This means you can swap out the stock mouthpiece and use your own. It’s a small thing, but for vapers who like customizing their setups, it’s a welcome addition.

Now, I ran my usual coil tests on this. Pushed the 0.45Ω mesh coil to its 30W max, and while it handled it well, I found 25-28W to be the sweet spot. Longevity was decent—got about a week of solid use before noticing a drop in performance. Would have loved to test the 1.0Ω MTL coil as well, but… well, more on that later.


Battery Life & Charging: All-Day Power

The 900mAh battery is solid for a device this size. I was getting a full day of use at moderate wattages without needing to recharge. When it does run low, USB Type-C charging ensures you’re back up and running quickly.

It also features adaptive power control, adjusting output 20,000 times per second for a consistent experience. While that sounds like a lot of fancy marketing, it does seem to deliver a smooth vape without major power fluctuations.


What I Don’t Like: The Lanyard Dilemma & Coil Availability

Now, let’s talk about the downsides—because no device is perfect.

First off, the lanyard. I get it—some people love them. But personally? I’m not a fan. It just dangles around, gets in the way, and collects dirt… kind of like a goat’s beard after a long day in the fields. Instead of a lanyard, I would have much preferred an extra coil or, better yet, an extra pod.

And speaking of coils, there’s no spare coil in the box. That’s a let-down. At this price point, an extra coil should be standard. If the included coil burns out or you want to try the 1.0Ω MTL option, you have to buy extras separately.

That wouldn’t be such a big deal… if the coils were easy to find. But in South Africa, getting your hands on MOTI products is about as easy as herding cats—or in my case, wrangling stubborn goats. Availability is scarce, which is a major downside if you’re planning to make this your daily driver.


PROS & CONS

Pros:

Slim and pocket-friendly – stealth vaping at its best
Great flavour – the 0.45Ω mesh coil delivers
Adjustable airflow – full control over MTL and DTL experience
510 drip-tip compatibility – customize your vape
Solid battery life (900mAh) – lasts all day
Fast USB-C charging – quick and easy
Bright, easy-to-read screen – all your stats at a glance

Cons:

Lanyard included instead of a spare coil or pod
No spare coil in the box – should be standard
Coils are hard to find locally – limited availability
Slightly pricey for a relatively unknown brand


Is It Worth It?

Let’s be real—MOTI isn’t as well-known as Vaporesso or GeekVape. But after testing this little device, it absolutely deserves more attention.

The MOTI Play Pod Mod is compact, powerful, and packed with useful features. The flavour is on point, the airflow adjustment is smooth, and the 510 drip tip compatibility is a game-changer for a pod system. It’s not perfect—the missing spare coil and the lanyard choice are questionable—but overall, this device delivers where it matters.

However, availability is a real concern. If you can’t get replacement coils easily, that’s a deal-breaker for a lot of vapers. Hopefully, MOTI sorts this out because otherwise, this could have been a real dark horse—or should I say, a dark goat—in the pod mod market.

Big thanks to Darth Vapor Corp for pointing me in the right direction.


Final Rating: 6/10

A solid pod mod that stands out in a crowded market. It’s got great flavour, adjustable airflow, and customization options that most pod systems just don’t have. If MOTI threw in a spare coil and made their products easier to find, this could easily be a 7/10 device.

Still, it’s earned its spot in my rotation. Definitely a keeper—just make sure you can actually get the coils before committing.

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Dead Rabbit 3 RTA Review – Hopping Towards Greatness?

 Let’s talk about the Dead Rabbit 3 RTA, a tank with a name that promises to hop ahead of the competition. I paired this little beast with my trusty Target 200 mod and spent some time putting it through its paces. Is it the G.O.A.T. or just another bunny in the herd? Let’s break it down.



Design and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the Dead Rabbit 3 RTA impresses with its clean, sleek design. The stainless steel build feels solid—like it could take a few tumbles and come out baa-ck for more. At 25mm, it sits perfectly on my Target 200, offering a seamless look without any overhang.

The top-fill system is simple and leak-resistant, which is always a win. No mess, no fuss—just pop the cap and fill. But while the design is sturdy, it doesn’t break any new ground. It’s good, but it’s not quite bleathtaking.

Performance

Here’s where things get interesting. The Dead Rabbit 3 boasts an upgraded airflow system, and I’ve got to admit—it’s as smooth as a freshly trimmed beard. The adjustable airflow ring lets you go from a wide-open DTL (direct-to-lung) hit to a more restricted draw for those who prefer a bit of MTL (mouth-to-lung) action.

The postless build deck is spacious and user-friendly, making coil installation easy—even for newer builders. I tried both single and dual coil setups, and while both worked well, dual coil builds definitely brought out the best in this tank. The creative coil placement options are a nice touch, though I wouldn’t call them revolutionary.

Flavor and Vapor Production

Here’s the part where the Dead Rabbit 3 RTA redeems itself: the flavour. It delivers rich, layered flavours that feel like a full-on stampede on your taste buds. Paired with the right e-liquid, it’s like unleashing a flavour explosion.

Cloud chasers, you’re covered too—this thing can chuck some serious vapour. Whether you’re into fluffy clouds or precise flavour, the Dead Rabbit does a decent job of balancing the two. It’s not a top-tier cloud machine, but it holds its own.

Leakage and Maintenance

No one likes a leaky tank, and luckily, the Dead Rabbit 3 RTA handles itself well here. The top-fill design and solid seals mean you can carry this around without worrying about a soggy mod. Maintenance is also simple—disassembly is quick, and the parts are easy to clean.

That said, I did notice some condensation build-up under the airflow ring after extended use. Nothing too bad, but worth keeping an eye on.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Durable and well-built design.
  • Excellent flavour delivery.
  • Smooth, adjustable airflow for DTL and MTL.
  • Spacious, easy-to-build deck.
  • Minimal leakage.

Cons:

  • Condensation build-up under airflow.
  • Not groundbreaking—more “good” than “innovative.”
  • Slightly muted cloud production for cloud chasers.

Final Thoughts

The Dead Rabbit 3 RTA is a solid contender in the RTA market, but it’s not without its flaws. While the flavour is fantastic and the build deck is friendly, it doesn’t do much to stand out from the crowd. It’s a dependable tank that performs well but lacks the wow factor to make it the G.O.A.T.

For me, it’s a 6.5/10. It’s a decent option for vapers who value flavour over clouds, but if you’re looking for something truly groundbreaking, this might not be the one to jump on.

That’s all for now—stay tuned for more goat-level insights in the next review! Until then, keep your builds tight and your flavour flowing. 🐐

Hellvape Hellbeast RDA: A Flavorful Powerhouse with Endless Versatility

 The Hellvape Hellbeast RDA is a standout in the world of rebuildable dripping atomizers, offering a unique combination of style, versatility, and exceptional flavor. As an avid vaper who appreciates the finer details of design and performance, I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience with the matt black variant adorned with the silver demon skull logo. Paired with my Dovpo MVV featuring the White Devil design, the Hellbeast RDA completes a striking setup that demands attention.




Appearance:

The matt black finish of the Hellbeast RDA, coupled with the intricately designed silver demon skull logo, creates an alluring visual contrast that adds an edgy touch to any mod it graces. While personal preferences vary, the amalgamation of these elements makes for a compelling aesthetic, especially when complemented by the White Devil design on the Dovpo MVV. The combination is eye-catching and satisfyingly cohesive.

Performance and Flavor:

One of the standout features of the Hellbeast RDA is its remarkable flavor production. When it comes to mixing and sampling e-liquids, this RDA proves to be the quintessential companion. The flavor nuances are vividly portrayed, offering a depth and richness that other atomizers may struggle to replicate. This makes it an essential tool for those who enjoy exploring the subtleties of different e-liquid profiles.

Airflow Versatility:

The Hellbeast RDA’s airflow system is a marvel of engineering, boasting an astonishing 72 air holes that grant an unparalleled level of customization. This impressive array of options allows for fine-tuning your vaping experience to perfection. Personally, I find satisfaction in configuring the airflow so that the top row remains mostly closed, save for two holes. This setup provides a balance of restricted draw and ample vapor production, enhancing the overall enjoyment of each vape.

Build-Friendly Deck:

The ease of building on the Hellbeast RDA is a highlight that should not be underestimated. The deck’s design caters to both novices and experienced builders, accommodating a variety of coil types and configurations. The Ni80 Quad-core Fused Clapton coils I employed, with their legs cut to 5mm, fitted seamlessly into the deck without the need for excessive bending or adjustments. It’s a welcoming feature, especially when experimenting with various coil styles.

Wicking and Drip Tip:

For wicking, Cotton Bacon Prime proved to be a wise choice, contributing to consistent and reliable wicking performance. The included drip tip may not align with everyone’s preferences, but thankfully, the Hellbeast RDA’s compatibility with various drip tip styles allows for easy customization. Swapping out the drip tip is a small adjustment that can significantly enhance the overall comfort and aesthetics of the setup.

Conclusion:

The Hellvape Hellbeast RDA is a true gem, offering an enticing blend of style and performance that caters to the needs of both flavor chasers and cloud enthusiasts. Its appearance, versatile airflow, user-friendly deck, and exceptional flavor production make it a coveted addition to any vaper’s collection. While it’s unfortunate that Hellvape has discontinued production of this masterpiece, I consider myself fortunate to have secured one in my preferred color scheme. For those lucky enough to come across this RDA, it’s a testament to the innovative spirit of vaping technology.

Build Instructions (using Hellvape Ni80 Quad-core Fused Clapton coils):

Begin by disassembling the Hellbeast RDA and ensuring the deck is clean.
Trim the legs of the coils to approximately 5mm each.
Insert the coils into the designated slots on the deck.



Secure the coils by tightening the screws, ensuring they are aligned and positioned evenly above the airflow holes.
Use a coiling rod or jig to adjust the coil spacing and alignment if necessary.


Pulse-fire the coils at low wattage to eliminate hotspots, gently strumming the coils with ceramic tweezers if needed.
Once the coils are glowing evenly from the inside out, let them cool.
Insert a strip of Cotton Bacon Prime through each coil, ensuring it provides snug contact but is not overly tight.


Comb out and trim the cotton ends so that they rest just above the juice well.






Gently tuck the cotton ends into the juice well, fluffing them slightly to optimize wicking.



Prime the coils with e-liquid and enjoy a satisfying vaping experience.


Reassemble the RDA and adjust the airflow settings to your preference.

Remember, building on an RDA requires attention to detail and safety precautions, particularly when handling coils and using high-powered devices. Always exercise caution and adhere to manufacturer guidelines for optimal results.



Punkapes Personal Air Filter

 



I came across the Punkapes Personal Air Filter while browsing a shop recently. Given my frequent travels, I thought this device might be a game-changer for those moments when I need a stealthy vape in airports or hotels where vaping isn’t allowed. So, I pulled out my bank card and paid what seemed like a reasonable amount for what the sales guy claimed to be an amazing product.

First Impressions
Opening the box right there in the shop, I noticed the unit I bought didn’t have a filter installed. The sales guy quickly swapped it with another device that had the filter, and we were off to a great start.


What’s in the Box

Features:

  • Durable plastic shell designed for travel
  • Silicone mouthpiece for comfortable use
  • Replaceable carbon air filter
  • Long lifespan: up to 500+ uses
  • Soft touch matte exterior for a sleek look
  • Improved airflow for better performance
  • Designed for continuous use
  • Includes preinstalled filter cartridge

Physical Parameters:

Size: 49mm*90mm
Weight: 159g



The device looks like a mini garbage can with the PunkApes logo printed on it. It has a nice weight and the aluminum body feels good in the hand. The mouthpiece covers your mouth well, but my thick beard caused some issues.

Putting It to the Test

I took a big drag on my vape, put the air filter over my mouth, and exhaled. The cloud billowed out the sides of the mouthpiece. It felt like blowing into a balloon or taking a breathalyzer test. Trying again with a smaller drag and exhaling slowly while squeezing the device into my face, I managed to keep the cloud in the device. Or so I thought. As I moved it away, a large cloud escaped. I gave up and decided to try again later, wondering if it was designed for smaller devices.

After some contemplation, I gave it another go. Taking a big drag and pushing the device into my face, I exhaled slowly. A small amount of vapor escaped, but not enough to be noticed by onlookers—a theory I later confirmed. Holding the device in place for a few more seconds, no cloud appeared when I pulled it away. Success! I repeated the process several times with consistent results. I even managed to prevent any vapor from escaping from my mouth or nose after a few tries.

Verdict

Would I recommend the Punkapes Personal Air Filter? Yes and No.

Pros:

  • Handy for stealth vaping in places like Ethiopia and Uganda where vaping is banned.
  • Useful in airports, Ubers, or taxis.
  • Effective after some practice in preventing vapor escape.

Cons:

  • Potentially allows kids to hide their vape clouds in inappropriate places.
  • Not necessary for most vapers.
For me, as a frequent traveler, it’s a useful addition to my vaping arsenal. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done in certain situations. If you find yourself needing stealthy vape solutions, the Punkapes Personal Air Filter might be worth considering.

Vaporesso Xros 4 Mini (Camo Silver) – A Stealth Vaper’s Companion!

 Hey everyone,

Continuing my journey with the Vaporesso Xros series, today I’m diving into the Xros 4 Mini, specifically in the sleek Camo Silver finish. Having extensively used the Xros 3 Mini, which I loved for its quiet and efficient performance, I was keen to see how the Xros 4 Mini stacks up, especially with its promise of enhanced stealth and convenience. So, let’s explore the details and see how it compares to its predecessor!



First Impressions: Unboxing the Xros 4 Mini

Design and Build


Xros 4 Mini: The Camo Silver finish adds a unique touch, making the device look stealthy and rugged. It’s slightly longer than the Xros 3 Mini, especially when using the 3ml pod, but it maintains a compact and portable design. The camouflage pattern doesn’t necessarily make it blend in with surroundings, but it definitely gives it a stealthy vibe that appeals to my sense of covert vaping.
Xros 3 Mini: The design was more minimalist with solid colors, which I liked for its clean and sleek appearance. It was slightly shorter and very pocket-friendly.
LED Placement

  • Xros 4 Mini: The LED indicator is now placed conveniently on the side, making it easier to cover with your thumb during stealth vaping. This is a subtle yet significant improvement for those moments when you don’t want to draw attention.
  • Xros 3 Mini: The LED was at the bottom, which was more exposed and harder to conceal when vaping discreetly.

Performance: How Do They Compare?

Battery Life and Charging


  • Xros 4 Mini: Both devices have a 1000mAh battery, but the Xros 4 Mini charges faster thanks to an optimized Type-C charging system. You can get a full charge in just under 45 minutes, which is fantastic for those who are always on the go.
  • Xros 3 Mini: Also has a 1000mAh battery, providing a decent battery life for a day of moderate use. However, it took a bit longer to charge compared to the Xros 4 Mini.

Pod and Coil System


  • Xros 4 Mini: Uses the same pods as the Xros 3 Mini, which are known for their reliability and flavor delivery. The pod fit has been improved slightly for a more secure connection, reducing the chances of leakage. I haven’t experienced any leaks yet, but I’m curious to see how it holds up over time.
  • Xros 3 Mini: The pods never leaked for me, though I did hear some users experienced minor leaks. The pod fit was good, but not as snug as with the Xros 4 Mini.

Airflow Control


  • Xros 4 Mini: Introduces an adjustable airflow mechanism, allowing for a customized vaping experience. The more you open the airflow, the louder the vape becomes. When fully closed, it’s almost as quiet as the Xros 3 Mini.
  • Xros 3 Mini: Lacked adjustable airflow, offering a fixed draw that was comfortable but didn’t allow for much customization.

Flavor and Vapor Production


  • Xros 4 Mini: Delivers a slightly more intense flavor and smoother vapor, thanks to the improved coil technology and airflow control. You can adjust the airflow for a tighter MTL (mouth-to-lung) draw or a looser DTL (direct-to-lung) draw, providing a versatile vaping experience.
  • Xros 3 Mini: While still delivering good flavor, it didn’t offer the same level of customization. The fixed airflow limited its versatility compared to the Xros 4 Mini.

Sound and Stealth Vaping


  • Xros 4 Mini: The sound level varies with airflow adjustment. Fully open, it’s louder, but when the airflow is closed, it’s almost as quiet as the Xros 3 Mini, making it a great option for stealth vaping.
  • Xros 3 Mini: The clear winner in terms of sound. It’s very quiet, not completely silent, but quiet enough for discreet vaping in public spaces.

Usability: Day-to-Day Experience

Stealth Vaping

  • Xros 4 Mini: The Camo Silver design doesn’t necessarily help it blend into the background, but it gives the device a stealthy, rugged feel that I enjoy. The LED placement and adjustable airflow also contribute to a more discreet vaping experience.
  • Xros 3 Mini: While it didn’t have the same stealthy appearance, its compact size and quiet operation made it a solid choice for discreet vaping.

Ease of Use


  • Xros 4 Mini: The buttonless, draw-activated design is incredibly user-friendly. The improved pod fit and adjustable airflow make it easy to use and customize, reducing the chance of leaks and ensuring a smooth draw.
  • Xros 3 Mini: Also very easy to use with a buttonless design. However, the lack of airflow control meant less customization and flexibility.

Durability


  • Xros 4 Mini: Feels robust and well-built, with a design that seems capable of handling daily wear and tear. The Camo Silver finish looks like it can withstand a few knocks without showing much damage.
  • Xros 3 Mini: Durable and solid, though the finish was more prone to showing scratches and wear over time.

Final Thoughts: Is the Xros 4 Mini Worth It?

If you’re already using a Xros 3 Mini and wondering whether to upgrade, here’s a quick comparison:

  • Stealth Vaping: The Xros 4 Mini excels with its Camo Silver finish, improved LED placement, and adjustable airflow that can be quiet enough for stealthy situations.
  • Performance: The Xros 4 Mini offers slightly better flavor, faster charging, and more precise airflow control, making it a more versatile device.
  • Ease of Use: Both are easy to use, but the Xros 4 Mini’s improved pod fit and customization options give it an edge.



In conclusion, the Vaporesso Xros 4 Mini is a fantastic device that builds on the strengths of the Xros 3 Mini while adding valuable improvements. Whether you’re a stealth vaper or simply looking for a reliable, high-quality vape, the Xros 4 Mini is definitely worth considering.

Happy vaping!



RipSaw RDA by Bearded Viking Customs and Suicide Mods

 First Impressions

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of my experience with the RipSaw RDA, let’s clear up a few things. This review is based on a well-used, second-hand unit I acquired, and I’m not getting any kickbacks for this write-up. I’ve only been using it for about a day, so these are my initial thoughts.


First up, the box. It’s much smaller than I expected, which threw me off a bit. Most of my other RDAs and tanks come in packaging that looks like it could house a small electronics lab. The design on the box, however, is killer—skulls and all. I dig that. The cheeky “Made in Hell” on the back of the box? Nice touch. But when I slid it open, I was greeted by a massive 28mm shiny RDA and a bag of spare parts. Missing were the Allen key, user manual, and warranty card, but hey, this is a pre-loved piece, so who knows where those wandered off to.




The smell of Grape Bubblegum hit me right out of the box, making it clear this thing hadn’t seen a good cleaning in a while. I was planning to clean it anyway, but this confirmed it needed some TLC.

Tech Specs and Build Deck

Technical Specifications:

  • Diameter: 28mm
  • Height: Approximately 34mm (including drip tip)
  • Deck: Dual post build deck
  • Airflow: Top adjustable airflow
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Compatibility: Suitable for both single and dual coil configurations
  • Build Deck: The RipSaw’s build deck is a dream for those who love ample space to work with. It’s massive, making coil installation a breeze, especially if you’re into big builds. The dual post design is straightforward and accommodates larger coils without a hassle.




Airflow: The top airflow is adjustable, designed to minimize leaks while maximizing flavor and cloud production. It features a multi-hole design that can be fine-tuned to your preferred draw resistance.

Setup and First Hits


After a thorough cleaning and a bit of polishing to bring back its shine, I found some Alien coils I made a while back. I cut the coil legs at 4mm, which I quickly realized was a mistake. This build deck is so spacious it practically begs for larger coils. My 3 core 5 wrap coils felt a bit dwarfed, but with some finessing, I got them installed and looking decent. A slightly longer leg length would have made the installation smoother.



Wicking this behemoth is almost too easy. I used One Cloud cotton for the job. My coils read at 0.09 ohms, so I set my mod to 80 watts and loaded up some juice. With everything set, it was time to put the RipSaw to the test.


Performance


With the top airflow wide open, the RipSaw delivered a nice airy draw with impressive flavor and thick clouds. The flavor is solid but not quite the best I’ve had—my Hellbeast still has the upper hand in that department. I adjusted the airflow to only three holes, which restricted the draw a bit more and resulted in a warmer, more satisfying vape. I personally enjoy a slightly more restricted vape, so this hit the sweet spot for me.

However, my mod threw a tantrum and gave me an atomizer error, likely due to the low resistance. So, I switched to my trusty Dovpo MVV. After a bit of guesstimation on the power setting, I took a massive hit—and promptly got a mouthful of burnt cotton. I quickly rewicked and adjusted the power, and I was back in business.

This RDA is a beast. It’s perfect for cloud chasers who love big, airy draws. I’m seriously impressed and can see myself using it often, though it does make me wish I had a bigger mod for it to sit on. Even my MVV feels a tad undersized for this beast.

Final Thoughts

The RipSaw is a cloud-chucker’s dream. It’s got a solid build, spacious deck, and delivers great performance. Just be prepared for it to guzzle juice like a dehydrated camel. It’s not the most economical option, but if you’re after those thick, satisfying clouds, it’s a worthy investment.

Pros:

  • Spacious build deck
  • Great airflow control
  • Solid construction
  • Excellent for cloud production

Cons:

  • Requires frequent refilling due to high juice consumption
  • Might be too large for some mods
  • Initial setup can be tricky with smaller coils
Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you’re into big builds and massive clouds. Just be ready for it to go through juice quickly and make sure you have a mod that can handle its size. Now, time to vape on and see what other adventures the RipSaw can take me on.





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