Gratefulbuys.com Monthly Space Case Giveaway

I really need to keep up with these contests more often. =) I've actually needed to buy a new grinder, but money is tight since I'm in college and the cheap ones I have used wear down or aren't good enough that I have finally realized I need to save for a good one. Unfortunately, good ones can cost more than what I am used to spending. So what I am trying to say is-- Thank you for contests like these! You will definitely be getting more reviews of my (limited) collection as soon as next week rolls around. (EDIT: Just read that it is one entry per draw--guess you won't be hearing from me until next month! )

DA BUDDHA
"I once knew vaporizers as efficient, but lacking, additions to a collection. Before I became intimately familiar with these gadgets, I was one of the many who felt the results just weren't as good as you could get smoking. But boy, did this vape change my mind! The size of rips from this thing were unbelievable, and it maintained a great taste longer than some other vapes I tried. Not only that, this thing is unbelievably efficient. To be honest, a recommended size bowl in this thing was enough to shoot 3 friends and I to the moon for the duration of feature length movies (it became a monthly ritual)--definitely more than I could ever use on my own in one sitting. Just think of this vape as the one that is capable of getting you places you didn't even know were possible with so little material.

So why this vape? I think it perfectly fills the niche in the vaping world that is filled by water-pipes in the combusting world. You can get full, lung-busting hits from this thing directly via the whip, or hooking it up to a waterpipe. You can get your chosen herb as dark as you want it, or dial in to lower temps to achieve effects from chemicals with lower boiling points.

Any cons? As mentioned, the bowl size is a bit big. However, you can always just stop mid-bowl (shocking! I know) and pick it up again later."


EDIT2: Forgot that this website doesn't have the review directly under the product. Added it in.

^ I read through that whole post twice and couldn't find what you were reviewing.

Me, either. But I want one for some reason.

Fiend said:

^ I read through that whole post twice and couldn't find what you were reviewing.

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haha straight up i swear i was wondering the same thing a while ago!

Made a review for the Iolite 2:

Mixed feelings. The iolite is a fixed temp, primarly-conduction vaporizer produced in Ireland by a company with a long history in the butane and welding business. The design demands super-high quality butane, and its case is not the sturdiest in the world, so the vape must be babied. While I personally would prefer a MFLB or a Solo, the Iolite does have a place in some people's arsenals - it's a set-and-forget vape, which will really make a bowl last a long time, which might be nice if you have a situation like the other reviewer, who uses it while fishing. Some people have had long term reliability issues with theirs, but I didn't during my time.

Fiend said:

^ I read through that whole post twice and couldn't find what you were reviewing.

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Thanks for pointing that out. On the website, the review is on the product page. I forgot that isn't the case here. =p

the iolite is one of the more popular portable vaporizers. it does require butane and so it doesnt need any batteries or electricity. around most people in public, they may think its a walkie talkie or something like that so its pretty stealth. it can come in a lot of different colors and patterns, so its fairly customizeable. a lot of people say that the mouthpiece is prone to breaking, but it shouldnt be a problem if you are careful - but its got a warranty anyways, and some parts are replaceable for fairly cheap. its pretty funny because people either love this vape or hate it. but if you look up youtube videos on it, you can see it blow some real thick vape clouds!

Magic Flight Launch Box Review:

I have been using my MFLB for over a year and have found it to be an incredible portable vaporizer. It is extremely efficient in addition to being durable and discrete.

Pros:
-Efficient: One trench holds about .11 grams of material and it only takes me about 1/5 of a trench to get me where I want to be
-Durable: My box has survived multiple drops to hard surfaces and due to the lack of moving parts still works like a champ; also no material even spilled out because of the plexiglass cover
-Stealthy: The small size allows it to easily fit in the palm of my hands and produces very little visible vapor or smell (many have used it in crowded movie theaters or in buildings)
-Control: Since your breathing controls the temperature, with some practice you can get up to as high or low a temperature as you want which is not an option for other fixed-temperature vaporizers
-Fast: 3-5 seconds for vapor makes it incredibly easy to have vapor whenever and wherever you please
-Portable: Uses rechargeable AA batteries which each last around 2-3 trenches; the two supplied are more than enough for a full day but I have extras for when using with friends
-Taste: Incredible taste; I actually savor the taste as opposed to the disgusting flavor of smoke
-Warranty: Magic Flight offers an astounding lifetime warranty so if anything goes wrong with your box they will send you a new one free of charges
-Power Adapter: An A/C power adapter can be purchased so that you don't need to worry about using or charging batteries; it has an adjustable temperature dial to give maximum control of the temperature and allows for maximum power for every hit
-Water-Pipe Adapter: Magic Flight has recently come out with a water-pipe adapter so that you can run your MFLB through water for increased comfort
-Customizability: There are many skins or different types of stems you can put on your box to suit your preference
-Cheap: It is very inexpensive compared to other vaporizers and with the warranty it will be a lifetime vaporizer

Cons:
-Learning Curve: There is a very steep learning curve especially for people new to vaporization; it will take new people many uses before they get the hang of it and it is very possible that some people will accidentally combust in your box but this risk and learning curve can be diminished greatly by using the power adapter
-Combustion: Since the temperature is controlled by pull speed it is very possible to combust in these boxes; I have never combusted but my (former) friend did on his first use with it
-Groups: This is designed to be a personal vaporizer so it can be an issue to use with groups especially if not everyone knows how to use it; if you have extra batteries or ideally the power adapter it can be used with groups with much more ease

The Magic Flight Launch Box is a truly wonderful vaporizer. It provides reliable vapor wherever and whenever you want it. The very few and minimal drawbacks are diminished greatly by the addition of the power adapter. If you are in the market for a portable vaporizer this is definitely the one to get. And the Magic Flight company is the greatest company I have ever had the pleasure of doing business with. You can't go wrong with Magic Flight.

MFLB

Over the past few months I have really grown a fondness for my Launch Box. I simply cannot imagine a stealthier or more discreet vape. It fits in your pocket, and can heat up in 4 seconds. When desired, one can vape with little or no smell. And if smell is produced, it doesnt linger like smoke. Suddenly all those event that you wanted to vape at, like concerts and movies, become realistic possibilities. In addition, it is fantastically efficient. I use around a third as much compared to smoking. Plus it tastes better. However, keep in mind that the Box makes vaping so convenient that your usage might go up a lot. This will be a bad thing for some, but self restraint should keep most people in line. I love that you can load a huge trench and finish it at leisure. There's no worries about wasting the rest of a bowl or something. Also, remember to save your abv to cook with, you can make so fantastic edibles.

Small, 4pc, Titanium, Magnetic hold. Space Case Grinder Review
Just Now Posted at Gratefulbuys.com!

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Purchased a small titanium 4pc SC grinder from GratefulBuys via ebay a few months back.

I've previously purchased a few different metal grinders off ebay from various sellers including so called "premium" models and some made not of aluminium, but rather some type of heavy, non-aluminium metal alloy. None of these grinders really left me particularly impressed for numerous reasons so after much procrastination, I finally decided to give the SC a try.

CONS:

1) Although this first opinion/comment is not exactly about actual use of this particular grinder itself, its still relevant - The manufacturer of this product, whether through embarrassment and/or legal concerns, supposedly prefers to distance themselves from any connection to this product including end users/consumers. I only mention this as I find it quite an odd business stance and even somewhat disturbing considering they manufacture the industries leading grinder product and offer a lifetime guarantee.

2) The "titanium" coating does indeed have the very real potential to chip and/or wear off over time, seemingly irregardless of how cautiously you use, store and care for it.

3) I don't know if this is true for all SC units but mine has a slight (maybe just slightly less than 1/32" but definitely noticeable) "wiggle" between the magnetically held upper and lower grinding sections. Over time this allows accumulation of built up materials and starts to effect the ease of use. Heavy/thick buildup here is not particularly easy to clean without the fears of adding aggressive wear/tear to the "titanium" coat. I found this particularly disappointing as the expectation of very tight manufacturing tolerances to reduce this type of accumulation was a big deciding factor in my purchasing a SC. In fairness all my grinders have at best just slightly more "slop" than my SC does. I just figured that between the cost of a SC and hype of its super tight manufacturing tolerances there would be a much greater and obvious difference between the SC and other much cheaper grinders.

4) There is no official care guide included with the product nor one available online. It would be nice customer service if the manufacturer let us know their officially recommended cleaning method(s) whether it be the use of approved chemicals that will not damage the "titanium" finish (nor void the lifetime guarantee?) or the simple recommendation of "manual" cleaning methods only like suggesting that a soft but stiff brush/cloth be used. IMO, they have missed a potentially very profitable sales opportunity by not developing/selling an official SC brand cleaner or cleaning "kit". After all, who would spend almost $100 on a SC and NOT buy the official SC cleaning product for an additional $10-$12??

5) There is no brand labeled packaging or a soft carry/storing pouch included. While not exactly important, I did find it somewhat odd so I'll mention it. Even some of the cheapest grinders I've purchased came with some form of a soft, black velvet type drawstring pouch. These types of pouches are available so cheaply that I just find it unusual that the most expensive brand sold does not include one with their products.

6) The nylon gasket or contact ring between the grinding sections on my unit has a slightly frayed, chipped or rough area that can impede the smooth grinding action if the grinder is not completely clean around rim edge. I don't know if it was like this when purchased or if I caused it trying to "work through" the accumulation of product sticking to rim. Irregardless, its evident that I will eventually have to figure out where I may procure a replacement nylon ring. This really is a completely unnecessary hassle and burden on customers that should of easily been anticipated by the manufacturer and addressed prophylactically. Why not just simply including an extra (2 cent??) nylon ring replacement with every unit sold?

PRO'S:

1) MADE IN USA!!!!!!!!!! This was definitely my biggest deciding factor when purchasing this grinder. I always feel guilt should I purchase anything made in China - I just can't help imagining dark scenarios like barefoot Chinese kids working long hours in horrible conditions just so I can self indulgently buy a grinder for a measly few bucks.

2) Simply the best made and designed grinder I've ever used - even considering my above "cons" comments. This SC grinder is my primary day to day grinder - The only times I even consider using any of my other grinders is if I wish to grind amounts that requires a much larger sized grinder than my small SC.

3) The screen mesh is very near if not perfect size to allow easy flow through of pollen yet still keep virtually all non pollen material out. The screen is also VERY tightly stretched/installed which is great! A super tight screen not only performs better but its also so much easier to clean.

4) Did I mention it's .... MADE IN THE USA!!!


COMMENTS/TIPS/EXPERIENCES:

1) Using an easily available, small, cheap, short/stiff, flat and angled artist brush to clean out collected pollen from the bottom section works great! This same brush also works quite handily in cleaning out the screen.

2) I've found that for my small SC grinder, placing a tiny (I think mine is 4mm) stainless steel ball bearing on top of the screen works nice and gently to assist pollen collection. A tiny ss bb doesn't have the tendency to pulverize material to the point it goes through the screen, it also has a much decreased chance of damaging/loosening the screen like using a heavy coin might.

3) For a really fine grind (which I prefer for vape) I'll load the SC then turn it upside down and grind away. If I have pollen already accumulating in the bottom collection section I'll unscrew and remove this section before loading, turning upside down and grinding (careful - threaded edges are clean/burr free but can still be quite sharp when applying hand pressure!!). As I carefully turn the grinder back right side up I'll also simultaneously re-install/screw the bottom section back in. Giving it another grind or two lets everything fall from the top grinding chamber into the middle screen chamber. Keeping it right side up I'll bump it around a bit side to side and let the ball bearing agitate the finely ground contents a bit allowing full contact with the screen. End result is a very consistent and finely ground material with a nice yield of virtually highly unadulterated pollen.


Would I recommend this product? Absolutely, but I'd also point out that there are other top quality, made in USA and highly regarded options out there of which I as of yet unfortunately have no personal experience.

I would personally and without hesitation give my small Space Case Titanium Grinder a solid rating of 9 out of 10 sparkling trichomes!


Emotion - 10/28/2011

Space Case 2 piece

Space Case is the gold standard in grinders - incredible build quality, silky smooth finish, and a life time warranty. When purchasing a Space Case, one should consider whether they desire a 2 piece or a 4 piece. 4 pieces allow one to collect kief, but a 2 piece offers a finer grind. Those who use vaporizers will usually prefer the finer grind. Another choice is the titanium or aluminum finish. I have heard that the titanium chips over time, so my recommendation would be for the aluminum. I personally have a medium aluminum two piece, which has served me fantastically for a year or so. Just chops up the herbs with minimal effort. The two pieces are quite affordable too, so I highly recommend one. Should last forever, given proper ISO cleanings

@Aqua just FYI the titanium will NOT flake and the aluminum ones are the ones that some people worry about flaking. :/ FWIW I've used aluminum grinders in the past and never seen any flakes at any time, but I just wanted to let you know in case you are concerned. I switched to titanium and LOVE it.


Just submitted my review of the 2 piece space case with the same username as my FC name. Here it is.


The Space Case 2 Piece grinder is a grinder unmatched anywhere in the world and created right here in the USA. So often I hear people tell me "a grinder is a grinder they are all the same don't be a snob". That is until I offer to let them take my Space Case for a spin. The first thing you notice using it is the titanium used (I suggest that over aluminum). It has just the right weight to it and is twice as strong as steel! Very light and virtually indestructible. The 2 piece model has the perfect teeth spacing for someone looking for that fine grind that increases the surface area and results in larger hits, especially with vaporization. There is a magnetic seal plus a ring outside the grinder to keep it firmly locked in place until YOU want it to open, no costly spills with this grinder. I feel confident in saying this is the finest grinder available. There is simply no room for improvement. The Space Case 2 Piece is grinding perfected.

I don't think the space case titanium grinder is really titanium darkrom. Its just a color which would be why there is flakes.

emotion said:

2) The "titanium" coating does indeed have the very real potential to chip and/or wear off over time, seemingly irregardless of how cautiously you use, store and care for it.

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The color comes from the anodization process, it\'s not a coating. Even though it increases the strength considerably it is still aluminum and can be gouged or worn over time.

emotion said:

3) I don't know if this is true for all SC units but mine has a slight (maybe just slightly less than 1/32" but definitely noticeable) "wiggle" between the magnetically held upper and lower grinding sections. Over time this allows accumulation of built up materials and starts to effect the ease of use. Heavy/thick buildup here is not particularly easy to clean without the fears of adding aggressive wear/tear to the "titanium" coat. I found this particularly disappointing as the expectation of very tight manufacturing tolerances to reduce this type of accumulation was a big deciding factor in my purchasing a SC. In fairness all my grinders have at best just slightly more "slop" than my SC does. I just figured that between the cost of a SC and hype of its super tight manufacturing tolerances there would be a much greater and obvious difference between the SC and other much cheaper grinders.

Click to expand...

This should not be. The magnet is not imbedded far enough. This can be replaced under the lifetime warranty.

emotion said:

6) The nylon gasket or contact ring between the grinding sections on my unit has a slightly frayed, chipped or rough area that can impede the smooth grinding action if the grinder is not completely clean around rim edge. I don't know if it was like this when purchased or if I caused it trying to "work through" the accumulation of product sticking to rim. Irregardless, its evident that I will eventually have to figure out where I may procure a replacement nylon ring. This really is a completely unnecessary hassle and burden on customers that should of easily been anticipated by the manufacturer and addressed prophylactically. Why not just simply including an extra (2 cent??) nylon ring replacement with every unit sold?

Click to expand...

Sounds like you got a defective unit. In 13+ years of selling them we\'ve never had a gasket issue come in. We do sell replacements for $3 but they should not need replacing.


I will be doing the drawing shortly and anouncing the winner of the 4:20 contest for this month (16 hours late, long night last night

Ok after some recouperation I have done the draw and this months winner is Charliedontsurf!

Happy Halloween! Let me know which Space Case you'd like.

Congrats Charlie

Congrats Charlie! And this month: The MFLB

The MFLB is the best vape in stealth and portability. As long as you keep a pair of batteries on you (included, and not a hassle), you can vape anywhere. From theaters to public bathrooms, I've heard of somebody using it or personally used it there.

Pros:
- This thing is tiny. You can hide it in your hands cupped together, and I don't even have to ask how small your hands are.
- Efficient. Of course--it's a vape. It is also technically adjustable temp, so you can get your herb as dark as you would like once you get used to it.
- Flavor. Probably one of the tastiest vapes I've used.
- Hits. Not big, not small, unless you want them to be. You can customize the heat and hit size with some practice, and it hasn't let me down.

Cons:
- Probably a harder learning curve of the vapes. It is hard to quickly perfect your draw entirely on your own, but there are videos by the manufacturer that show some tips and tricks for use. Those serve as a better starting point for how to get good hits in a style you like, in my opinion.
- Batteries. Battery = trench, in my experience. If you are a heavy user, this may be a problem because you may end up needing a bunch of batteries. If you are smoking a bunch of trenches at once, you cannot charge a battery in the time it takes to use a battery, so you will need to buy more if you do that.
- Groups. It isn't a group vape, obviously, but it can be a pain to explain how to use to friends if they haven't before or don't know what it is. I've used it with 3 people with amazing results, but after much explaining, trial, and error.

Other thoughts:
- The power adapter has received great reviews, to the degree that it "transforms the vape into a whole new device" (paraphrasing). If you want portability and a heavier hitter, this may be able to fill both roles with the PA and cost less than 2 separate vapes.

Just found out I'm the winner! Took my slow ass awhile!

Thanks alot Captain Hits! Free stuff is always appreciated, let alone world-class aircraft-grade aluminum grinders! I'll make sure to post a review in the grinder section when my SC shows up.

Thanks Gratefulbuys.com!

Edit: well, the large space case is REALLY LARGE! I was blown away. It's easily the nicest grinder I've ever used or even seen, and I'm very thankful to Grateful buys! This thing shows me that the money you spend on a Spacecase is indeed well spent.

Space Case 2 pc

Space Case grinders are acclaimed throughout the internet, but I and many others would argue this reputation is not entirely deserved. Space Case grinders are well made, but the price for the 4 pc models is really over priced. If your interested in a 4 pc grinder, there are a lot of quality alternatives to the Space Case, and most will save you a few bucks. However, the Space Case 2pc grinders really stand out. They have the legendary quality of the 4 pcs, and are affordable too. Vaporists generally prefer 2 pc grinders anyway. Trust me, once you start grinding your herbs with a grinder, you won't want to switch back. I have the Titanium model, and it looks really nice

Happy Holidays FCER's!

Today at 4:20 PM PST will be the last contest since there's not enough participation to continue it

captainhits said:

Happy Holidays FCER's!

Today at 4:20 PM PST will be the last contest since there's not enough participation to continue it

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Happy holidays to you, too! I hope everybody had a good Thanksgiving and Black Friday. =) Thanks for the contest while it ran, Captain! I'm glad I was able to participate before the end.

So the winner is the only person who left a review, Nebulous!

Let me know which one you'd like.



THIS CONTEST IS OFFICIALLY CLOSED

captainhits said:

So the winner is the only person who left a review, Nebulous!

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Just to point it out, I submitted a review the day or so after the previous contest ended for this month's contest on 11/1/11.

Congrats, Nebulous!

Oops I didnt see that. So since there are 2 reviews I can actually do a draw . We'll postpone this till tomorrow and I'll draw between mrfloopa and nebulous.

Ah shoot, I missed the final contest deadline! Too much black friday craziness...

Anyway, I had a review of the SSV wrritten, I know its after the 4:20 deadline, but figured I might as well post it. Not expecting entry into the drawing, but the choice is up to you captainhits. Thanks again for the contest!

Disclaimer: I don't own a Silver Surfer myself, but I get to use my friend's on a regular basis. Because the Silver Surfer uses a lot of bud (and gets you really high), it isn't a vape that someone with a low tolerance like myself would want for their personal use. However, for someone who loves big hits and has a high tolerance, it works admirably. It's also a great vape for group sessions, which is mainly when I get to use it. My flight box is admittedly kind of a pain with a group, but with the silver surfer you just load up a wand and everyone can get ripped. Pretty damn easy to use as well, you only have to get the draw speed right. My friend tells me that cleaning/maintenance isn't a big issue either, and that he can make awesome wand hash with ISO.


To summarize; having a silver surfer means that you will probably use a lot in one sitting, but you also get wicked high.