VaporGenie

[DevoTheStrange]

I had a question for those who are having problems with the VG bat. Are you guys using your bat's with or without a plastic mouth piece?

Reason I ask is I never got mine with a mouth piece and recently got to try using one in my VG. First thing I noticed is it's much harder to produce vapor with it in than it is with it out. I was able to get vapor, just it took much longer, and the VG got about twice as hot as it does using it without the mouth piece.

I got the mouth piece from another person who also had a bat and used one with theirs. They had a spare and gave me one.

 

[lesvape]

Mines also didn't come with a mouth piece, so I can't say how it is with it.

Any tips on vaping hash?

 

[momatik]

Most people suggest packing a small bed of herb and then placing the hash on top of that. When I ever clean the VG I do that with any resin and it's nice. Don't save any of the resin if you use the VG for tobacco.

I've taken my mouthpiece off, as have most people so you aren't missing anything.

 

[vumeister]

Mines also didn't come with a mouth piece, so I can't say how it is with it.

Any tips on vaping hash?

I don't think any of the bats come with mouth pieces... someone correct me if i'm wrong.

 

[DevoTheStrange]

reason i brought it up, is my friends bat did come with a mouth piece. Mine did not. They are the second person I had seen using the bat with a mouth piece. He was having trouble with his, and I told him to try without. Just for shits n giggles I took one of his spare mouth pieces and used it on mine and was experiencing some difficulty producing vapor and with the vape getting too hot to hold when I did manage to produce vapor.
now I dunno if they ordered the mouth pieces in addition to their VG Bat. But, the mouth piece i got off of him is the same that comes with the wooden units.
So I was wondering if some of the people here on the board may have been using mouth pieces, and if so, maybe they should try without.

One thing I did notice with the mouth piece is when I did manage to get the bowl to vape, most of the herb would turn brown much quicker than it would without the piece. I also managed to combust fairly easy.

edit: just asked my friend where he got the mouthpiece, turns out the guy selling the VG bats locally is selling them with the mouthpieces. So that explains how they got there.

 

[vumeister]

edit: just asked my friend where he got the mouthpiece, turns out the guy selling the VG bats locally is selling them with the mouthpieces. So that explains how they got there.

That's what i thought because nowhere does it show the bat with mouthpiece on the VG website.

 

[charliedontsurf]

Just got my alum bat, and have mixed feelings so far. I'm pretty sure I'm not Fing up the technique, I've used alot of similar vapes. It's just get SO DAMN HOT! It's pretty much literally impossible to burn up plant material (and difficult as hell to get a hearty brown), and so is pretty much useless for extracts. I understand that this design puts the filer farther away from the flame than the other VGs and that's a great idea for a herb-material only vap - but to make it METAL while exposing it to all that extra flame makes no sense to me. I haven't even tried sharing a bowl with a friend, it would be absurdly hot even after they got over the learning curve.

If anyone has advice on using the vap bat please enlighten me. I'm at the point where I had just bought a handcarved.

I think the alum bat is a different enough design to merit its own page, much like the glass VG.

 

[DevoTheStrange]

ya know what... from my messing around with the mouth piece on my VG bat, I think it may be possible to vape hash or something similar with a mouthpiece being used as well. I noticed that the bowls will turn extremely dark brown, or combust, when using a mouth piece. The VG will get pretty hot to hold.
I think with the smaller diameter hole in the mouth piece slows down your inhale allowing the bowl to reach much higher temps than it would normally.
however I wouldn't suggest using a mouth piece on just herb, gets too close to combustion.
I was also experimenting with a piece of tubing that fit inside the hole on the VGBat. Got the same results as the mouth piece. Dark brown ABV, and combusted a few times.

and as far as the VGBat heating up, I think this particular vape is a one person deal. Anyone else will not allow enough time for the VG to cool down between hits. The heat will only accumulate and not dissipate fast enough to hold the vaporizer after a few hits. I've been contemplating getting a piece of silicon tubing that will fit around the filter end of Bat and cut out a hole large enough so that when using a lighter it wont get burned. Similar to the tough bowls on the Extreme.... Should work (either that or will retain too much heat, but is worth a try)

 

[charliedontsurf]

Part of me is contemplating asking VG for an exchange for a handcarved. My feelings about the bat are really mixed right now. I've actually been able to get some big vape ropes but is it worth it for the heat hassle?

 

[Guest]

I have owned two original VGs, and one aluminum bat. The OG version is FAR superior. It doesn't get nearly as hot, and it seems like it is easier to use.

I am, however, looking forward to the release of their Stainless Steel Bat.

 

[charliedontsurf]

During my long weeks of trolling on this VG post, maybe on like pages 20 to 30, some people are really digging the bat and giving it alot of praise.

Maybe my technique just needs work?

Out of all my new vapes - the VG alum bat, the Vaporstar and the vapo-bowl, I like the bat the least.

 

[charliedontsurf]

Just bought a normal maple vapor genie in berkeley today for 45+tax and it's is SO much better than the aluminum bat. I'm still pondering asking the VG people for my money back or an exchange on the glass VG, because the VG alum bat does nothing for me, and it gets SO hot with just one person using it.

Question - what is your guys' preferred method of using a jet lighter with the VG classic?

Edit - it's a pity that the mouthpiece does it so much aesthetic good because it F's up your vaping. I've gotten way better hits w/out than with.

Edit no. 2: wow I really like this thing. I definitely prefer vaporizers which err on the side of being too hot rather than way too cool, and this does that way better than the Bat. It seems like a really great product. Need to email the VG people asap...

Edit no. 3: someone mentioned 30 or so posts back (lol) that you can load solid material, vape once or twice, and then very easily crumble it for more complete vaping. Absolute truth, works great when a grinder is not at hand.

 

[Rin101]

Charlie, I started using a torch lighter with my classic wood VG about a year ago (now I use it with my glass VG ^.^) and I definitely prefer the torch over a bic. With regards to method, there's really only one method..point it straight in and hold it at the proper distance (flame length determines distance for me). If you're having trouble getting the distance right, hold the flame a few inches away and VERY slowly move it closer to the ceramic filter (the heat from the torch lighters will heat the filter from a few inches away, it just heats slower).

Once I start tasting the vapor I point the flame away from the bowl (be careful not to point it at anything else) for about 1 second, point it back into the bowl for 1 second, and I repeat this until my lungs are about 65% full. At this point I turn off the torch and inhale through the VG until my lungs are full..the vapor usually continues for a few seconds because of how much heat is stored in the filter.

Glad you like it, the VG is really a treat

 

[steiner666]

Just ordered an oak vaporgenie classic from VW, should have it on monday. i needed a cheap, reliable portable model to compliment my HA and it sounds the the vg will meet those needs. i was going to get another mflb to replace the one i had to sell a few months back (in desperation, against my will), but I think the vg will work better for me, especially for the price. And when go on a longer trip somewhere i wont have to worry about bringing a bunch of batteries and/or keeping them charged and stuff. Plus, i'll be able to keep on vaping in a post-apocalyptic situation will post some impressions after i get it and spend some time with it

 

[charliedontsurf]

Charlie, I started using a torch lighter with my classic wood VG about a year ago (now I use it with my glass VG ^.^) and I definitely prefer the torch over a bic. With regards to method, there's really only one method..point it straight in and hold it at the proper distance (flame length determines distance for me). If you're having trouble getting the distance right, hold the flame a few inches away and VERY slowly move it closer to the ceramic filter (the heat from the torch lighters will heat the filter from a few inches away, it just heats slower).

Once I start tasting the vapor I point the flame away from the bowl (be careful not to point it at anything else) for about 1 second, point it back into the bowl for 1 second, and I repeat this until my lungs are about 65% full. At this point I turn off the torch and inhale through the VG until my lungs are full..the vapor usually continues for a few seconds because of how much heat is stored in the filter.

Glad you like it, the VG is really a treat

Ty, good information, thanks. I'm just worried about annihalating the wood all around the filter's metal opening, you know? I'm worried about scorching the wood and the finish and ruining the whole thing. I guess all there is to do now is get courageous with it.

Update, I still hate my VG bat and love my VG classic. VG classic is actually useful for extracts once you get the hang of it, and I'm only using a bic. One thing I noticed about the VG classic is that it has a day or two break-in period where everything tastes like maple. If you're disappointed in a lack of flavor from your vapor, give it a day or two.

Edit Number 2: Talked to VG about a exchange for the bat. They said they're working on a new and improved ceramic top for the VG bat and would mail me one out when they are ready (at least 3 weeks). For the sake of education, both for this board and for the company, I'm gonna wait and see how if the new line makes the VG bat cross the line between "troublesome" to "awesome."

 

[momatik]

I've had the VG original for about 3 months now.

I would vape exclusively if it wasn't for friends and the learning curve associated with the genie.

That, and the fact that the great taste I used to get out of it isn't as strong anymore, are the only 2 reasons I have to getting another more expensive vaporizer.

 

[lesvape]

You think if I contact them they would also send me replacement top for my bat?

 

[charliedontsurf]

You think if I contact them they would also send me replacement top for my bat?

I don't know. Also, their language was vague, as if I might be expected to pay for the replacement top - which if reasonable I probably would do, but I really shouldn't have to, since their original design sucked and I'm deeply displeased with it. Email them with a complaint, mention you're a forum member, etc..

Two questions Lesvape: 1. are you as displeased with how hot your bat gets as me? and 2. Is your name a Claypool reference?

 

[lesvape]

What did you write so I can get an idea of what to say? Not really mad how hot it gets, but more about how the ceramic plate moves a bit, which could lease to an issue?

No lesvape is just a reference to lets vape.

 

[charliedontsurf]

What did you write so I can get an idea of what to say? Not really mad how hot it gets, but more about how the ceramic plate moves a bit, which could lease to an issue?

No lesvape is just a reference to lets vape.

I complained about the heat specifically, nothing to do with the filter.

Wandering filters are an issue on multiple VG models I think, but it's also supposed to be kind of a non-issue. Alot of people's VGs develop it but it's not supposed to be a problem, but I've never heard about it on the bat and it might kill it for all I know. If it's hurting performance, mention that.

 

[steiner666]

Got my VG classic yesterday and its pretty cool. One thing i noticed is that, inside the heating chamber area on top, some of the metal that lines the inside just above the filter isnt attached to the wood fully, theres a gap. This metal that isnt quite in place seems to be holding the ceramic filter slightly off-center, so that there is a larger gap on the one side of it. I tried using different things to work it back into place, and its better now, but still not perfect. Also, the screen fits pretty loosely, and i've noticed some herb getting down around the edges of it already. Could become a problem, especially since this vape, like most portables, seems to work best with finely ground herb.

Anyway, I vaped a few bowls through it yesterday and only managed to scorch one of them. The others went decently well. I did manage to feel the effect, but wasnt able to produce any visible clouds at all. which isnt really necessary IMO, but something i think all vapes should be able to do w/o burning the load. I definitely noticed that the top of the bowl gets a lot more roasted than the rest, as expected, but theres also a pretty noticeable hot-spot on the surface area where things get even more cooked than elsewhere.

Going to spend some more time with it before passing final judgment. Definitely want to try some diff types of lighters.

 

[DevoTheStrange]

the ceramic filter is held in place by a metal shim which allows the filter to move up and down, and will be a bit loose. Or least that is what they people at VG told me. so that should be normal.
I brought this up when I believed my filter appeared to be shrinking in size and emailed VG. They told me there is no way the filter will ever shrink (which I still do not believe) and what i was seeing was the filter move up and down inside its shim.
I still think that over time these filters will shrink. I wish I had a pic of when I took it of my classic VG so i could compare it to the filter inside my Bat. the older filter was thinner than the new one.
I was able to get the filter out of the old on the same way I did with the bag. The threads on the top piece are what is holding the filter in. Just unscrewed them and the filter came right out.
However I no longer have my VGClassic so I cannot take a pic to compare the two. So if they are using the same size filter on all their products, my Classic filter lost almost half its thickness. Even though the folks at VG told me this would never happen.

 

[charliedontsurf]

Got my VG classic yesterday and its pretty cool. One thing i noticed is that, inside the heating chamber area on top, some of the metal that lines the inside just above the filter isnt attached to the wood fully, theres a gap. This metal that isnt quite in place seems to be holding the ceramic filter slightly off-center, so that there is a larger gap on the one side of it. I tried using different things to work it back into place, and its better now, but still not perfect. Also, the screen fits pretty loosely, and i've noticed some herb getting down around the edges of it already. Could become a problem, especially since this vape, like most portables, seems to work best with finely ground herb.

Anyway, I vaped a few bowls through it yesterday and only managed to scorch one of them. The others went decently well. I did manage to feel the effect, but wasnt able to produce any visible clouds at all. which isnt really necessary IMO, but something i think all vapes should be able to do w/o burning the load. I definitely noticed that the top of the bowl gets a lot more roasted than the rest, as expected, but theres also a pretty noticeable hot-spot on the surface area where things get even more cooked than elsewhere.

Going to spend some more time with it before passing final judgment. Definitely want to try some diff types of lighters.

About the clouds, none of my vapes produce clouds as reliably as the VG classic. The first hit on a VG classic bowl is almost always a huge puff for me, and I usually unscrew the filter to inspect it, only to find it's just barely changed from the original appearance. Seriously, VG classic makes clouds all day. Work on your technique, mess with it, experiment. The only way to get the same vapor density on any other vape I own would be to put the volcano on like 7.5 or 8 with a fresh load, which I never do.

Also, strangely, a loose grind seems to work better for the VG classic. It spreads that glorious puffage over 2 or 3 hits instead of blowing it in one. Impromptu hand-ground bowls have been some of the best - may be my imagination.

The VG classic for me is golden for the first part of a vape session and impresses less as it goes on - But that first vape or two are sweet. As for the VG bat, stay the F away. Devo's comments on shrinking filters are indeed cause for concern, and I for one appreciate your input on this board Devo, I was reading your comments long before becoming a member.

 

[DevoTheStrange]

See... I cannot stand using the classic style, guess I am one of the few who likes the VG Bat set up.
and as far as the filter... like i said, VG told me that it was a non issue and would not happen.
However I am in the camp of not believing that and think there is still a possibility that it may shrink based off the filter of my last VG. Also, I have seen the knock offs of this product, and the filter they chose to use seems to shrink at a much faster rate than what I observed with my VG filter (Wish I had pics, but those pipes have all been laid to rest).
And if it does shrink, where does all that lost filter go?

Now I must mention, all the pipes I have "Supposedly" seen shrinkage of the filter in, all have had people, who don't know how to use the VG, use quite frequently. So there is a lot of flame touching the filter over its life.
I Believe that that has a lot to do with what I have seen.

 

[caseball2051]

does the bat require the same learning curve as the classic model? is it easier to use? harder?