Nicotine shots are a popular product among vapers, especially those who prefer larger bottles of e-liquid or want to customize the nicotine strength of their vape juice. However, the question often arises: Can you use nicotine shots in any e-liquid? The short answer is no—while nicotine shots are a versatile tool, they are not suitable for every type of e-liquid or every situation. In this article, we’ll explore what nicotine shots are, how they work, and the factors you need to consider before adding them to your e-liquid.
What Are Nicotine Shots?
Nicotine shots are small bottles of concentrated nicotine that are designed to be added to larger bottles of e-liquid. Typically, these shots come in a 10ml size and are available in a variety of nicotine strengths, ranging from 18mg to 20mg. The purpose of a nicotine shot is to allow vapers to increase the nicotine content of a bottle of e-liquid, especially for larger bottles such as 50ml, 100ml, or even 200ml shortfills.
Shortfill e-liquids are sold in larger bottles, but they typically have a gap at the top to allow space for adding nicotine. This is where nicotine shots come in. By adding a nicotine shot to a shortfill e-liquid, you can customize the nicotine strength to suit your preferences.
What E-Liquids Are Compatible with Nicotine Shots?
Nicotine shots are primarily intended for use in shortfill e-liquids. These are larger bottles that come without nicotine but are designed with extra space to accommodate a nicotine shot. Shortfill e-liquids are typically sold with a high VG (vegetable glycerin) content, making them suitable for sub-ohm tanks that produce large vapor clouds. The high VG content in these e-liquids helps create a smoother vaping experience when combined with nicotine shots.
You cannot, however, add nicotine shots to every type of e-liquid. For example, nicotine shots are not typically recommended for use in pre-filled pods or bottles of e-liquid that are already nicotine-infused. Most pre-filled pods or disposable e-cigarettes already contain a specific nicotine strength and are not intended to be altered by adding extra nicotine. Adding a nicotine shot to these products may result in an overly strong nicotine concentration that can be unpleasant to vape.
Factors to Consider Before Using Nicotine Shots
- Nicotine Strength: Nicotine shots come in different concentrations, usually around 18mg. When adding a nicotine shot to a shortfill e-liquid, it’s important to calculate the desired nicotine strength in the final mixture. For example, adding one nicotine shot to a 50ml bottle of 0mg e-liquid will typically result in a final nicotine strength of 3mg. If you want a higher nicotine strength, you may need to add multiple nicotine shots.
- VG/PG Ratio: Shortfill e-liquids often have a high VG content, which is ideal for large vapor clouds but may not work well with nicotine shots if the nicotine shot is not formulated for high-VG liquids. Ensure that the nicotine shot you are using is compatible with the VG/PG ratio of your shortfill e-liquid. Most nicotine shots are designed to mix well with VG-heavy e-liquids, but it’s always good to double-check.
- Type of Vape Device: Consider the type of vape device you are using when deciding on the nicotine strength. If you’re using a high-wattage device or sub-ohm tank, you might prefer a lower nicotine concentration to avoid a harsh throat hit. Conversely, if you’re using a pod system or mouth-to-lung device, you may want to go for a higher nicotine strength for a more satisfying vape.
- Flavor Considerations: Some e-liquids, especially those with complex flavor profiles, might be affected by the addition of a nicotine shot. While nicotine shots are generally neutral in flavor, the overall taste of your e-liquid might change slightly depending on the amount of nicotine added. This is particularly true if you add multiple nicotine shots or use an excessively high-strength shot.
How to Add Nicotine Shots to Your E-Liquid
To use nicotine shots effectively, follow these simple steps:
- Calculate the Desired Nicotine Strength: Before adding a nicotine shot, determine how much nicotine you want in your e-liquid. A standard 18mg nicotine shot will add a certain amount of nicotine to your e-liquid, but you can adjust based on your preferences. For example, to reach 3mg of nicotine in a 50ml bottle of 0mg e-liquid, add one nicotine shot.
- Add the Nicotine Shot: Simply remove the cap of your shortfill e-liquid bottle and pour the nicotine shot into the bottle. Shake well to ensure the nicotine shot is evenly distributed throughout the e-liquid.
- Let the E-Liquid Sit: After shaking, it’s a good idea to let your e-liquid sit for a few hours to allow the nicotine to fully blend with the base liquid. This ensures a consistent nicotine level throughout the e-liquid.
- Check Nicotine Strength: Once mixed, check the nicotine strength by referring to the amount of nicotine shot used. If necessary, you can always add another nicotine shot for a stronger concentration or reduce the number of shots for a milder vape.
Conclusion
While nicotine shots provide a convenient way to customize the nicotine strength of your e-liquid, they are not suitable for all types of e-liquid. The best use case for nicotine shots is in shortfill e-liquids, where there is extra space to add the nicotine without compromising the overall volume. Remember to carefully calculate the desired nicotine strength, ensure compatibility with the VG/PG ratio, and always shake the e-liquid thoroughly for an even distribution of nicotine. By following these guidelines, you can easily tailor your vaping experience and enjoy a more satisfying vape.