Had mine for only about a day now, so these are just some initial impressions:
On Function:
I would whole heartedly agree that when used correctly, this device can absolutely deliver a dab-like experience from flower, and to date, I have not combusted even once. One thing to note; it's important to keep in mind that the ability to "ride the line" is really what is unique about this device, and in my opinion, using it in any other way kind of diminishes the impact of it's design. Everybody who buys one absolutely needs to RTL and experience this device at its peak potential. It took me only a few tries with a decent torch lighter to get exceptionally large milky rips. That said, a good torch lighter will give even better results, as I find my Duality Torch set to 2x gets me that dark brown, one and done roast. If you follow the photo posted by Whiff on IG, and his timing suggestions posted here (as instructions), and you have a decent torch lighter, you should be able to have an exceptional experience. I hit the thermal battery directly, with airflow somewhere in the midpoint, bowl tightly packed, and it milks harder than my Elev8r when I heat it with a propane torch! TIP: Whiff's User's edition video on YT has some very helpful insight on tuning airflow. I will agree with others who have echoed a need to aggregate all of this various and widespread advice into some form of downloadable pdf manual from Vestratto's website.
On Form:
The Anvil is weighty, highly machined and engineered; it looks and feels akin to a medical device and John's background really shines through here. Truly, a beautiful device if you are into that sterile polished steel look (I am), though the pop of colour via the heatshield helps to mix it up. I will agree with others who have noted that the copper on the outside oven is quick to tarnish--one day and mine looks quite grey. I can likewise confirm with others who have noted some play/looseness on the outter chamber when set to fully closed airflow, and I'd like to see that issue corrected in future iterations, as it is never confidence inspiring to have an extremely hot oven sit even a little bit loose. I likewise agree with another commenter that we could use some sort of simple tool, or way to adjust the airflow while still hot (the wad of cloth I've been using isn't ideal). I really struggle to think of improvements and constructive criticisms with the Anvil, it's just exceptionally well designed.
On Packaging and Inclusions:
Shipping and packaging is, fine. Discreet brown box with the bubble wrapped unit. It leaves some wanting for a more exciting unboxing, but Dynavap shipped in doob tubes for years, so... yeah. In terms of inclusions, it feels really naked. I would have loved the option to pay a bit more money to purchase whats included in the "influencer" or Ukraine kits, rather than having to pick and pay each part separately. I have a friend now interested in buying one who has expressed the same opinion. I suppose it's mostly a convenience thing, and an "I'm not sure what I want or need" thing.
Overall:
I am not a "well to do," and a purchase such as this, for me, requires a good deal of budgeting and scrutiny. I was on the waitlist for the Founder's and I passed on a purchase at that time, as I was not fully convinced that the energy behind the Anvil wasn't just hype. For months, I pondered this purchase, and I am quite happy to report that the device meets and exceeds all of my expectations. I am extremely happy that I jumped on board and moved on up to Anville! I own many heavy hitting vapes, including ball vapes, and can definitely confirm that (when used correctly) the Anvil smashes every bit as hard as any of those.