Hello everyone!
This is my review of the WDZ-Weizen Model. As far as I know, this is still a 'custom' model so standard pricing may not apply. I must apologize to Todd and any others interested in this model(Ive had a couple of emails), but my plan was to plug it in and leave it alone for several weeks to 'season' it properly. Unfortunately I have had obligations that kept me from both using it and having the time to gather my thoughts for a proper review.
*** In case you are wondering what 'season' means. I believe that with this style of vaporizer(especially new ones) the optimal temperature is not reached until after several days or weeks of constant power. So I left it plugged in to a stable power source and let the WDZ do its thing. It remained powered on and undisturbed aside from a touch up with the WDZ wax for several weeks.
First here is a better picture of the WDZ-Weizen Model
Package Contents:
WDZ-Weizen Model
12v Power Brick
Little tin of wax
3 Stems
Packaging and presentation are definitely lacking, but its not like this is an Apple laptop either. I think as the WDZ gains more steam more attention to packaging and presentation will be warranted.
It's your only chance for a first impression, you have to make the most of it.
Construction:
The unit appears to be very well made, there are no 'rattles' or other noises when the unit is shaken energetically. This unit is made from Walnut and the finish is smooth and has an almost 'silky' texture to it. The Walnut has begun to darken nicely and in sunlight has streaks of alternating dark/light colors.
The internals are constructed of SS and lead free solder, the heatport is not as recessed as in other makes.
The shape of this unit is much more ergonomic than a traditional 'log' style vaporizer. Despite the added weight of more material the unit 'feels' lighter than the traditional 'Log' style from a different competitor. I have considered that this could be attributed to the different woods used in construction(I am comparing this to a Custom PD-Tea Tree) but I believe it can be better attributed to the shape itself.
The only area where this unit's finish is not uniform with the body is the area immediately surrounding the power plug receptacle. It is cut off flat as to allow for a proper attachment surface for the power plug receptacle, but unfortunately this area was not sanded/finished as smoothly as the rest of the body. The result does not affect performance whatsoever, nor would it keep me from purchasing this model again, but perhaps recessing the power plug receptacle would provide a better solution.
Stems:
The WDZ stems I received are fantastic. The 'feel' of these stems is great. Straight up.
They are made from a smoooth material, slightly more opaque than the more translucent competitor stems. Construction is solid, the WDZ Stem is slightly narrower than the competitor stems I normally use. This only applies to the plastic, otherwise they are functionally the same. I am including a picture of the WDZ Stem and a competitor's stem below, the WDZ stem is the top one.
As the WDZ Stems have smooth walls both on the exterior and the interior I find cleanup is much easier and faster. They do not seem to 'pick up' as much lint as other stems and if they do you can actually blow it out without it getting caught on a machined surface.
Vapor Taste/Flavor seemed more pronounced and lasting when compared to freshly cleaned stems of another make. I do not know how the smooth walls will affect buildup of condensed vapor.
Overall:
I am very happy with the WDZ-Weizen Model. It performs well and appears to be as durable as any other similar style product available now. I'm not going to say much else here, it just works, and works well.
Conclusion:
In terms of price and availability for a 'ready to run' SS/hardwood 'log' style vaporizer, the WDZ is currently the only game in town. Add to that the willingness of WDZ to accept custom orders beyond just what wood is used in construction, and the WDZ staff have created a new niche for themselves in an already tight and competitive market.
I personally feel that anyone considering purchasing a 'log' style vape should take a long look at the WDZ as well.
The WDZ-Weizen Model gets the "EitherOr - Grand Seal of Approval"
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