Two thoughts about smoking 'on occasion' (nothing personal). I don't even like the thought of inhaling smoke anymore. Call me elitist, but in 3 years I've had 3 joints and regretted it each time based mostly on taste like a firepit, but also on quality of buzz. Apologies; I'm not as comfortable talking about 'levels of high' as I am overall impression and feel. I can describe a vape buzz as far lighter, but no less intense than a combustion buzz. Different. There are so many variables besides 'my perception' in the equation that the little scientist voice in my head kinda stamps his feet and shuts down!
I can relate to strong hits as a description of the Hopper experience. Yeah, if the goods are delivered via express service, happiness will usually follow; sooner and happier. Or sooner and more relaxed. Or sooner and more excited. Or...just more. Longer lasting? Again, that's very subjective and so full of variables...
The feel of a vape buzz is simply different; there are much different chemistry's taking place. We hear over and over in these threads about vaping's 'aquired' taste. The taste of many things are 'aquired', including tobacco and alcohol (who ever has the premium experience as a first-time smoker, cannabis or tobacco?). I am thrilled to have un-aquired the taste and behaviors of combusting both cannabis and tobacco. I do feel fully assimilated into the vaping practice and love the feelings it brings. What more do I need to know? (please don't answer that, I'm enjoying myself too much).
Effect and our behaviors aside, I must say I really, really, really look forward to Hopping - and beyond, cause this is one great part about all this vaping thing; It's such a new and exciting dynamic as the knowledge and tech evolve and methods are refined (and VAS!). For me, appreciation of the vape high has increased as my tools have evolved, and so I won't deny people their excitement and over the Hopper. Still, I don't hold the effect up to that of combusting, just as I wouldn't really compare smoking to alcohol consumption. People used to call drinking 'getting high'?!?!?
Let's also acknowledge that if this were a discussion between medical patients about effect, it would be taking a completely different tone and course.
I guess I'm trying to say that I don't see the point of spending much time (though I just did!) on the comparison because fuck combustion.