Simply The Best

 

Over 2014 a number of high end manufacturers have increased production and opened websites, enabling more people the opportunity to own their products. At the same time we’ve seen a number of people launching quality, original yet affordable devices, catering to those seeking their first genuine bits of kit.

The politics of the Antz is dominated by (the ever-increasingly marginalised) Glantz, especially following the revelations of his funding from Big P, and the obscure pronouncements from a couple of Brits. They’ve had social media meltdowns, indulged in all manner of personal attacks and resolutely stuck to the themes built on lies.

Scotland embraced vaping as part of its quit smoking service, Leicester continued to plough a furrow in supporting e-cigs and the body of scientific evidence in favour continues to outstrip anything anybody else can produce.

A magazine dedicated to vapers went monthly, a forum expanded its offering to include weekly newsletters and many, many more vendors began a new business. Vapemeet 2014 was a resounding success with the largest ever footfall while meets in the States grew in both frequency and size.

And things blew up, ohms got lower while air holes got larger. From having one or two emails a day the volume of vape-related news hitting my inbox has reached an almost unmanageable level.

‘Vape’ isn’t just the word of the year, it’s a snowballing public movement – the genie isn’t just out of the bottle; it’s taken over the pantomime, moved into a new house and goes on nice foreign holidays. Vaping is here to stay.

Mod – the Black Oak by Continental Mods

As with all things in this list, personal preference comes into play and what ticked all the boxes for me won’t do it for others. There is no doubt that there many I haven’t owned or held but there was just one I lusted after. This was, without doubt, the year of the box as vapers embraced the alternative to the tube. There are outstanding alternatives out there – I’m still a huge fan of the entire Paps range, the number of regulated devices has bloomed but it is the whole package of the Black Oak by Continental Mods that won my heart.

It’s not just the handmade mod itself; it’s the attention to detail with the entire package. From the beautiful box to the individual components, this was incredibly well thought out from inception to implementation.

Atty – the Origen Genesis V2 by Norbert

I believe this was an annus mirabilis for atomisers as some incredible new ones entered the market – plus I discovered some older, cheaper ones knocking about that really perform too. Some of the older attys continue to perform to an excellent level; those with Rose V2s will be looking forward with anticipation to the V3 version, people lucky enough to own a Sat22 will be clutching it with pride.

Norbert’s Origen has improved on the physical appearance, offers an outstanding build quality and delivers a phenomenal vape. A stunning genesis atty that is never far from the Petit Gros or my right hand; there are things you just innately know will never be swapped or sold on, the Origen V2 is one of them.

Manufacturer – Tim Peacock & Fortune Mods

I could celebrate Fortune Mods for their involvement in the community, I could laud them for producing affordable mods and I could celebrate the beautiful design work that has gone into the recent packaging – but none of these are the reason I pick Tim.

Throughout the year, Tim has received (like most of us) an inbox full of people offering him things from China. Notably, many people contacting Time are offering to sell copies of the very devices he makes. The style and wit with which he has dealt with all of them stands as a testament to the integrity of the chap – and the respect with which he treats everybody, customer or not.

Bargain – Steamboy

I bought one of the quirky 2.1 Storm Riders as a suck it and see exercise and was so impressed I immediately purchased a 2.3. Not only do the prices of these atomisers offer exceptional value but for just €100 you can obtain an original Peacemaker mod replete with a 2.3 Storm Rider atomiser. Outstanding value for something so well made!

Tech development – the DNA40 chip

It’s not my cup of tea, but the potential offered by this chip is outstanding. To be able to guarantee no burnt wick and limit the production of noxious compounds is the leap forward vaping has been crying out for. I’m too cautious to be an early adopter but I’m looking forward to being convinced to get a DNA40 device in 2015.

New Juice – Puros Dark

House of Liquid removed by previous favourite vape from stock, although I still have a smidge of Brasileiro for special occasions. Puros Dark filled the vacated slot with aplomb. Deep and rich, complex and rewarding, Puros Dark is the only juice the Origen V2 gets used for whether at home or sitting in a pub. I don’t feel like I’m vaping with this liquid, I feel like I’m treating myself!

Forum – Planet of the Vapes

The inclusive nature of POTV continues to make it an ideal venue for those new to vaping (and the more experienced). While some will contend they are too accommodating, others will point to the fact that the support they received helped them to develop their understanding and a deeper appreciation for all aspects of vaping. The recent development of the weekly vaping news function marks the forum out as offering something unique to the UK market.

*These are my opinions, my opinions alone and do not reflect those held by Stealthvape or any sane breathing person. Who would get your votes?