Zipper Pull – What is it in Vaping?
Definition
A Zipper Pull is a small, detachable accessory designed to clip onto the zipper of a vape-carrying pouch, backpack, or case. It serves as an easy-grip handle, letting vapers open their gear quickly with one hand while also acting as a discreet identifier or style statement. Typically made from lightweight zinc alloy, silicone, or paracord, the pull replaces the tiny factory zipper tab and can be customised with logos, colours, or even built-in tools like bottle openers or 510 drip-tip holders.
Technical Details
Most zipper pulls measure 25–50 mm in length and weigh 2–5 g, ensuring they don’t snag or overload delicate zippers. The attachment loop is usually a 5–8 mm split-ring or carabiner-style clip compatible with standard coil-zipper holes. Variants include:
- Solid metal pulls—cnc-machined zinc alloy or stainless steel for durability.
- Silicone moulded pulls—soft-touch, shock-absorbing, ideal for stealth carry.
- Paracord weaves—550-lb cord with heat-shrink ends, doubling as emergency cordage.
- Multi-tool pulls—integrated flathead screwdriver for Tank“>Zenith Tank or Zeus Tank airflow pins, or a Zero Ohm Reader”>Ohm reader slot.
Some premium pulls are anodised to match popular mod colours and feature laser-etched resistance tables for Nicotine“>zero nicotine DIY mixing.
Usage & Tips
- Installation: Slide the split-ring through the existing zipper eyelet, then crimp closed with pliers to prevent loss.
- Snag prevention: Choose rounded-edge designs; sharp metal pulls can scratch tanks or tear cotton in pockets.
- Cleaning: Rinse silicone pulls in warm soapy water; metal pulls can be wiped with isopropyl alcohol to remove e-liquid residue.
- Safety: Avoid oversized pulls on child-resistant cases—they may give extra leverage that defeats locking mechanisms.
History & Context
Zipper pulls entered the vape scene around 2015 when Australian cloud-chasers sought quick access to regulated mods at comps. Early pulls were DIY paracord knots; today, aftermarket brands sell matching sets for popular carry cases like Coil Master and VapeGuard.