Copper mods, do they require more maintenance than stainless?

[JamezC]

So, I've been looking at getting a copper mech mod (namely a pegasus clone), and was wondering if copper mods require more maintenance than stainless steel mods? And also, how durable is copper?

I'm liking the look of all these copper mods but I'd just like to know if they're a hassle in any way. I already own a few mechs which I clean from time to time but in general, they're pretty low maintenance imo.

 

[gpjoe]

I have my first copper mod on order so I can't speak from experience, but I ASSUME that the only difference (from stainless steel) is that a copper mod will tarnish with use and develop a patina. Other than that the only negative I've read here was a member who's hands turned green from handling a copper mod.

 

[VapingTurtle]

Copper is softer than brass, which is way softer than steel.

 

[AaronY]

If you want to let them pitina then there really is no extra work.

 

[JamezC]

If you want to let them pitina then there really is no extra work.

Awesome, thanks for the reply guys. And yeah, I'll probably let it patina and see what it looks like. I've heard you can also clear coat them to keep the patina the way it is (or keep it nice and shiny).

 

[FatherTime]

im enjoying allowing my pegasus to petina up on the outside, but the contacts and everything inside (especially the switch so it doesnt lock up) i clean every week. you should always keep your contacts clean!

 

[Ed_C]

I have a copper/red Stingray clone and so far, so good. That being said I do wonder how long the 510 threads are going to last. Copper is much softer than SS and softer than brass as well. The popularity of copper mods is a relatively new thing. I might think twice before I bought a high-end copper mod. That being said, at least many high-end mods allow for purchase of replacement parts. Anyone have any issues with the 510 threads yet?

 

[Loopy1224]

I have two copper mods and there is a bit of maintenance even if you do like the look of a patina. The threads should be cleaned periodically. They won't tarnish as fast as the outside of the mod but will tarnish. If you let it go too far it will cause voltage drop and affect the quality of your vape.

 

[tayone415]

So, I've been looking at getting a copper mech mod (namely a pegasus clone), and was wondering if copper mods require more maintenance than stainless steel mods? And also, how durable is copper?

I'm liking the look of all these copper mods but I'd just like to know if they're a hassle in any way. I already own a few mechs which I clean from time to time but in general, they're pretty low maintenance imo.

Yes, more maintance, even if you like or don't care if the mod patinas you still have to clean the threading as it patinas or the quality of your vape will start to get worse and won't hit as hard. Patina will also turn your hands green if you care, but hits so much better and usually will have a lower voltage drop than stainless depending on the mod and contacts. Like those who said copper is softer than brass and ss so you need to be careful with cross threading more so with clones than authentics. If you like a shiny mod copper can start to patina shortly after a polish and polishing can take longer than you'd think, but too much polishing will remove etchings and engravings, faster with etchings and faster with a clone, it also can put very noticeable surface scratches on the mod, depending on the polish and what you're using with the polish.

 

[wrath186]

Aside from the patina that develops, I don't take my copper mods traveling with me due to the softness of the metal. They're generally a keep at home and watch tv mod.

 

[luceblueboy]

To keep it shine:
1) Wipe down your copper mod with a wet-wipe (baby or disinfectant is fine) and that will help with the patina
2) Polish it once the wipe no longer stop the patina with either a polishing cloth (treated with polishing agent) or something like Mother's Mag Polish (available at autozone, advanced auto parts, o'reilly's, and walmart)

Important maintenance:
3) Sand down the contacts with a very fine grit as they will get patina on them and hurt conductivity
4) If thread grit cannot be cleaned with wipes use fine grit sandpaper along threads to clean them

Also, BE CAREFUL WITH YOUR 510 CONNECTION!! I stripped my Hcigar Copper Nemesis 510 connection because of the soft threads.

 

[JamezC]

So, from all of the comments, I gather that copper mods aren't quite as durable as stainless steel mods, and they do require more maintenance. Hmm, I may hold off on getting a copper mod then. It's hard to break away from stainless steel

 

[v1k1ng1001]

I prefer stainless for those reasons. I have enough work with my brass stingray that I don't see myself ever going copper.

 

[pcporter827]

Yes there a little extra work, keeping your threads and contacts clean in particular, also being more mindful of your mod and how soft copper is. But don't let this stop you, copper hits hard as hell and looks sexy shiney or with a patina. All I own are copper mods. Ketchup works amazing so does cutting a lemon in half and running salt into it.

 

[marcyprojects]

I have a copper xxix with a bit of patina on the outside. I cleaned the inside with a soft brush but I'm still getting a hot button when firing. How should I clean the inner tube and contacts? Should I use ISO rubbing alcohol? Just a baby wipe? Or should I try the mothers mag for the contacts?

 

[MrPlink]

Not all copper is baby poop soft.

It definitely isnt as durable as SS but lets not pretend copper will catch on fire if you look at it wrong.

If you are really rough with your gear it probably should be avoided or left at home at best.

 

[m3nace]

Can you use noalox on copper threads to keep them from getting dirty without losing conductivity?

 

[mewtwo]

definately have to polish once every week to keep the shine whereas my stainless steel mods can go months without a polish and still look sharp!

 

[Asbestos4004]

Copper mods are great. I have 9 of them and not one threading issue or hot button issue. I maintain them like any other mech I have. When it needs cleaned, I clean it.
You got some great advice in this thread, except for putting sandpaper on your threads. That one made coffee come out my nose.

 

[LowLyfe]

I have a stainless mod and a copper mod and I must say the copper is my go to mod. It's only a clone so I take it everywhere and hope it gets scratched up and beat up from EDU it already has a good patina that I stripe off every few weeks when I give the inside a good cleaning. The salt / vinegar mix works amazing it can take a old nasty penny and make it shine quick. I can't wait for a authentic copper mod I'm looking for a BFM.... but most likely going to order the Pegasus clone that just came out for another copper 18650 and going to find a good copper 26650 clone. Because I'm not going to carry $400 worth of vape gear on me everyday. But will carry $80 worth of clone gear without a sweat. IMO

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