If you're building your own coils, a coil jig isn't optional; it's essential. Trying to wrap Kanthal wire freehand produces inconsistent coils that are harder to install and don't perform as well. The Tobeco Coil Jig V2 solves that problem cleanly, for less than the price of a 5-pack of pre-built heads. Here's what changed from the original, how to use it, and how it compares with its little sibling, the Coil Tool.
What makes the V2 better than the original
The redesigned version moved the tightening screw to the side of the device rather than the top. This sounds minor, but it makes a real difference: you can wrap wire without the screw getting in the way, and it's much easier to tighten down one-handed while keeping tension on your wrap.
Two more details from the listing that the original didn't have. The body has a 510-threaded opening, so the jig doubles as an atomizer stand while you work on a build, which is far handier than it sounds when you're trying to seat a coil with both hands. And the small nut below the screw pulls out to reveal a storage space for your preferred wrapping post, so the one you actually use doesn't roll off the bench.
How to use a coil jig
The jig comes with five small coil-wrapping posts of differing diameters, so you can build coils at different inner diameters depending on your atomizer and your resistance target. Then:
- Choose the post for the inner diameter you want (2.5–3 mm is the easy first choice) and fit it to the jig
- Slide the wire through and secure it under the side screw
- Wrap your desired number of turns, keeping steady tension and each wrap touching the last
- Tighten the screw, trim the legs, and slide the coil off
- Seat it in your deck, read the resistance, and pulse it at low power to settle the wraps
Consistent coils every time, with the same inner diameter on both coils of a dual build, which is what makes them fire evenly. For the wattage side, see our VV/VW beginner's guide.
Coil Jig V2 vs. Tobeco Coil Tool
| Tobeco Coil Jig V2 | Tobeco Coil Tool | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Handle with interchangeable posts and a side tightening screw | One solid piece with five fixed, graduated posts |
| Diameters | Five posts of differing diameters, swappable | 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3 and 3.5 mm, marked on the handle |
| Extras | 510-threaded atomizer stand; on-board post storage | None; it's a pocket tool |
| Best for | Regular builders who want tension control and a stand | The cheapest way to stop wrapping freehand |
| Colors | Gunmetal, black, blue | Single finish |
What you'll need alongside it
- Kanthal A-1 resistance wire, the standard wire for most builds (our Kanthal guide covers gauges), or flat ribbon
- Ceramic tip tweezers for strumming and compressing coils
- A multimeter or ohm reader to verify resistance before firing; we stock the DT830D, and our ohm meter guide shows how to read it
- A deck to build on: the APO, Zenith V2 or IGO-W6 RDAs
- Organic cotton for wicking
The full bench list, with what each tool is for, is in coil building tools: what you actually need to get started. Prefer not to build? Pre-made heads are in the replacement coils collection.
Frequently asked questions
What inner diameter should I wrap for a first coil?
2.5 to 3 mm. It's the easiest size to wick, fits every common deck, and with 24 or 26 gauge Kanthal lands in a friendly resistance range at six to eight wraps.
How many wraps do I need?
It depends on wire gauge, inner diameter and the resistance you want. A free online coil calculator gives you the number in seconds; then confirm the real figure with an ohm reader before firing.
Does the jig work with ribbon wire?
Yes. Keep the flat face of the ribbon against the post as you wrap and it lays down neatly. It's actually easier to keep tidy than round wire.
Coil Jig V2 or Coil Tool?
The V2 if you build regularly: interchangeable posts, a side screw that holds tension, and the 510 stand. The Coil Tool if you want the cheapest, simplest one-piece option with five fixed sizes from 1.5 to 3.5 mm.
Pick up the Tobeco Coil Jig V2 at SmokTek → Same or next business day shipping. Family-run since 2011.
SmokTek products are for adults 21 and over. WARNING: These products contain nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical. Vaping is intended as a better smoking alternative for adult smokers. It is not a safe product, and nothing in this article is a health or cessation claim. Rebuildable atomizers and coil-building tools are for experienced users; learn about rebuilding before you attempt it. In line with the PACT Act, all shipments require an adult signature on delivery.