Kennedy RDA – What is it in Vaping?
Definition
The Kennedy RDA is a high-performance Rebuildable Dripping Atomiser designed for advanced vapers who prioritise flavour intensity and dense vapour production. Manufactured by Kennedy Enterprises in the United States, this dripping atomiser features a distinctive two-post Deck“>build deck with oversized post-holes and a signature bottom-airflow system that delivers air directly beneath the coil. The Kennedy RDA is machined from premium-grade stainless steel and is renowned for its deep Juice Well”>juice well, knurled grip sections, and minimal chamber design that maximises flavour concentration. Ideal for cloud chasers and flavour enthusiasts, the Kennedy RDA supports both single and dual coil builds using Wire“>Kanthal wire or other preferred coil materials.
Technical Details
The Kennedy RDA operates on a simple yet effective principle: e-liquid is dripped directly onto the coils and wicking material through the wide-bore DripTip“>drip tip, eliminating the need for a tank reservoir. The atomiser’s deck measures 24 mm in diameter and houses two 3 mm terminal posts secured by Phillips screws, accommodating complex coil builds up to 3.5 mm inner diameter. Airflow is delivered via two fully-adjustable 2 mm × 8 mm slots that channel air from the base directly under the coils, creating a vortex effect that cools the Kanthal wire efficiently and enhances vapour density. The juice well depth is 7 mm, allowing for approximately 25–30 drops of e-liquid before re-dripping is required. Variants include the Kennedy 24, Kennedy 25, and the Kennedy Trickster series, each offering slight dimensional tweaks and airflow refinements.
Common Variations
- Kennedy 24: Original 24 mm diameter, dual bottom airflow.
- Kennedy 25: 25 mm diameter, larger build space, increased juice well.
- Kennedy Trickster:Side airflow caps for users preferring horizontal air intake.
- Copper or Brass Editions: Premium materials for enhanced conductivity and aesthetics.
Usage & Tips
To maximise the Kennedy RDA’s performance, install dual coils positioned 1–2 mm above the airflow slots, ensuring the coil legs do not obstruct the air channels. Use Kanthal wire between 22–26 gauge for balanced ramp-up and flavour. Wick with Cotton“>organic cotton, trimming tails just long enough to touch the juice well base without blocking airflow. Drip 10–15 drops directly onto coils and wicks, then pulse at 30–40 W to test for hot spots. Common issues include leaking if over-dripped; mitigate by tilting the device slightly when dripping and avoiding filling the well past the airflow holes. Always check ohm readings on a Mod“>regulated mod before firing, especially when using a mechanical kit, to ensure safe battery discharge rates.
History & Context
Released in 2015, the Kennedy RDA quickly became a cult favourite within the Australian cloud-chasing community for its uncompromising airflow design and robust construction. Its bottom-feed airflow was revolutionary at the time, influencing subsequent RDA designs across the industry. While newer atomisers like the Kayfun offer tighter draws for mouth-to-lung vaping, the Kennedy remains a staple for direct-lung enthusiasts seeking raw power and flavour.