A shortfill is a 50ml bottle of zero-nicotine e-liquid in a 60ml bottle. The extra 10ml of space is for a "nic shot" — a 10ml bottle of unflavored nicotine that you add yourself. Shake it, steep it, and you've got 60ml of 3mg e-liquid for about half the price of buying pre-mixed.
The system exists because of the EU's TPD regulations, which cap nicotine-containing e-liquid at 10ml bottles. By selling zero-nicotine shortfills separately, manufacturers can sell larger volumes without running afoul of the law.
How to mix: Open the shortfill and the nic shot. Pour the nic shot into the shortfill. Close the cap. Shake vigorously for 60 seconds. Let it sit for 24 hours (this is the "steeping" step — it lets the nicotine fully blend with the flavor). Done.
A single 18mg nic shot added to a 50ml shortfill gives you 60ml of 3mg liquid. Two nic shots give you 6mg. The math: (nic shot strength × number of shots) ÷ total volume = final strength. Online calculators exist for every ratio.
Most shortfills are 70/30 VG/PG. They're designed for sub-ohm tanks. If you're using a pod system, look for "salt shortfills" or "50/50 shortfills" — they're less common but they exist.
This content is intended for adults 21 years of age or older. Nicotine is an addictive chemical. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. If you are considering using vaping products as an alternative to smoking, consult with a qualified healthcare professional. Product reviews and recommendations are based on publicly available information and independent evaluation; Windbar makes no representation regarding the FDA marketing authorization status of any third-party products mentioned. This content is not a substitute for review by a licensed attorney.
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