Introduction
The vaping world is often segmented, with high-end Rebuildable Tank Atomizers (RTAs) frequently priced beyond the reach of the average vaper. But what happens when premium build quality and exceptional performance become accessible to a wider audience? The answer arrives in the form of the Pioneer MTL RTA by BP Mods, manufactured by Dovpo. This collaboration has sparked significant buzz, and for good reason. The Pioneer Acceptance Rta phenomenon is real, signaling a shift in the market as vapers embrace an affordable atomizer that doesn’t compromise on quality or flavor.
Just weeks ago, finding the Pioneer MTL RTA was a challenge, limited to a few European websites. Now, it’s rapidly becoming available globally, from China to the UK and the US, even in a 2ml TPD compliant version. This surge in availability and popularity is no surprise after experiencing its performance firsthand. Dovpo’s manufacturing prowess ensures that demand is met, avoiding the scarcity and inflated prices often associated with boutique vape gear.
The Pioneer RTA delivers a truly high-end feel, featuring interchangeable 510 airflow pins and adjustable bottom airflow for precise fine-tuning. Beyond its Mouth-To-Lung (MTL) capabilities, a dedicated DL (Direct Lung) Kit expands its versatility, offering additional airflow pins, a specialized chamber and chimney, and a wide-bore Ultem drip tip optimized for a Restricted Direct Lung (RDL) experience. Having spent considerable time with the Pioneer, it’s clear this RTA is a game-changer, earning a permanent spot in my regular rotation. Let’s delve into the details of what makes the Pioneer MTL RTA and its DL Kit so impressive.
Image showing the Pioneer MTL RTA and DL Kit packaging, highlighting the product and brand logos.
Unboxing the Pioneer MTL RTA and DL Kit
Image displaying the contents of the Pioneer MTL RTA packaging, showcasing the RTA, spare parts, and accessories neatly arranged.
The presentation of the Pioneer MTL RTA kit immediately conveys a sense of premium quality. Each component is individually housed within its own compartment, all laid out on a single level within a minimalist yet classy outer box.
Pioneer RTA Contents:
- 1 x Pioneer RTA (3.7ml standard / 2ml TPD)
- 1 x ULTEM Drip Tip
- 1 x Clear Drip Tip
- 1 x PCTG Tank Tube (Frosted)
- 1 x ULTEM Tank Tube
- 3 x Airflow 510 Pins
- 1 x Accessories Pack (O-rings, screws, 2 x pre-built coils)
- 1 x User Manual
DL Kit Contents:
- 1 x Pioneer RTA Atomizer Chimney (DL specific)
- 1 x 2.0mm Airflow Pin (DL)
- 1 x 2.9mm Airflow Pin (DL)
- 1 x Ultem Drip-tip (Wide Bore, DL)
- 1 x Spare O-rings
Image showing the contents of the DL Kit packaging, highlighting the DL chimney, airflow pins, and drip tip.
Aesthetic and Design Excellence
The Pioneer MTL RTA continues the theme of understated elegance in its physical design. I received the Stainless Steel version, which exudes a clean, sophisticated look. It’s also available with a “Diamond Look Coating (DLC),” which, while often termed “Black,” appears more like a media-blasted dark grey in photographs. While my Stainless Steel version is undeniably attractive, the DLC variant increasingly catches my eye as the preferred aesthetic choice.
The RTA’s most striking visual feature is the series of heat-sink fins integrated into the top cap. It’s topped with a two-piece 510 MTL drip tip, featuring a stainless steel base section that allows for interchangeable tips. The pre-installed tip has a PEEK-like appearance and adds to the overall premium feel. Subtle “Designed by” and logo engravings are present on the top cap, tastefully understated and non-intrusive. A wide metal band beneath the top cap integrates the fill plate, chimney, and chamber section, flowing down to a lightly frosted PCTG tube and a silver base section. The bottom adjustable airflow ring is remarkably discreet, almost invisible at first glance, maintaining the clean lines of the design.
The machining, threading, and tolerances are impeccable throughout. The only minor initial stiffness was in the narrow Adjustable Airflow Control (AFC) ring. While it has eased slightly with use, adjusting the airflow is still easiest when the RTA is removed from the vaping device.
Image showcasing the Pioneer MTL RTA in Stainless Steel, highlighting the top cap fins and overall clean design.
Close-up image of the Pioneer MTL RTA’s top cap and drip tip, emphasizing the heat sink design and two-piece drip tip.
The base of the RTA features branding and safety markings. The pre-installed 510 connector, which houses the 0.8mm airflow pin, is gold-plated and protrudes slightly, ensuring compatibility with hybrid mechanical mods.
Image of the Pioneer MTL RTA base, showing the 510 connector, branding, and safety markings.
Pioneer MTL RTA: Specifications and Key Features
- Diameter: 22mm
- E-liquid Capacity: 3.7ml (Standard) / 2ml (TPD Compliant)
- Filling System: Threaded Top Fill (Bayonet Style)
- Build Deck: Dual Post, Single Terminal per Post
- Coil Configuration: Single Coil
- Flavor Chamber: Conical
- Top Cap: Heat Sink Design
- Deck Vent: Single, Under-Coil
- Airflow: Adjustable Bottom Airflow & Interchangeable 510 Pins
- Airflow Pins: 3 MTL/Restricted DL Options (0.8mm, 1.2mm, 1.5mm)
- Materials: Stainless Steel, PCTG, ULTEM
- Colors: Stainless Steel, Black (DLC)
Image presenting a specifications sheet or infographic for the Pioneer MTL RTA, summarizing key features and dimensions.
Comprehensive Contents: What’s Included?
The Pioneer MTL RTA package is remarkably generous. You receive the fully assembled RTA, pre-fitted with a lightly frosted PCTG 3.7ml tank tube (likely with a removable reducer for TPD regions) and the two-piece 510 MTL drip tip.
Image showcasing the included drip tips and tank tubes, highlighting the variety and materials.
The included drip tips are a particular highlight. The stainless steel base of the primary drip tip is a standard 510 connection, allowing for customization with your own tips. The pre-installed tip, with its PEEK-like material, is exceptionally attractive. A frosted PCTG tip and an Ultem tip are also provided, allowing you to match your drip tip to the tank tube material or create your own combinations. The drip tips fit perfectly, secure yet easy to remove when needed.
Close-up image of the different drip tip options: ULTEM, clear PCTG, and the pre-installed PEEK-like drip tip.
In addition to the pre-installed frosted PCTG tank, you also receive a smoked frosted PCTG tube and an Ultem tube, all with the standard 3.7ml capacity.
Image displaying the different tank tube options: frosted PCTG, smoked PCTG, and ULTEM.
The accessory box contains a bag of spare parts, including two pre-made MTL fused Clapton coils (material and specifications not provided). The bag is packed with O-rings, two sets of flathead grub screws, and two additional 510 airflow pins in different sizes.
Image of the accessories pack contents, showing spare o-rings, screws, airflow pins, and pre-built coils.
Effortless Top Filling System
The Pioneer RTA utilizes a bayonet-style top cap removal system, a personal favorite for its ease of use. A quarter turn is all it takes to remove the top cap, a design common in recent RTAs like the Zeus series. Re-securing the top cap is equally smooth and effortless. While bayonet systems eliminate threading, the Pioneer’s execution is exceptionally smooth, surpassing even other RTAs using this method. This speaks volumes about the precision machining of the Pioneer – the movement is remarkably silky.
Removing the top cap reveals two large, kidney-shaped fill ports. These generous ports accommodate any e-liquid bottle nozzle, including glass droppers, ensuring mess-free refills.
Image showing the Pioneer RTA with the top cap removed, revealing the kidney-shaped fill ports.
Close-up image of the fill ports, demonstrating their size and accessibility for various bottle types.
Airflow Versatility and Flavor Optimization
True to modern MTL RTA design, the Pioneer directs airflow to the coil from directly underneath. This is achieved through interchangeable 510 airflow pins, which draw air from the side inlets of the 510 connector and channel it upwards through different sized hollows, directly beneath the coil.
The pre-installed 510 pin features a 0.8mm hollow, with additional pins offering 1.2mm and 1.5mm hollows. While some RTAs use a single larger airflow hole with inserts for restriction, the Pioneer’s pin system, combined with its adjustable airflow ring, provides an equally wide, if not greater, range of draw customization.
Image detailing the interchangeable 510 airflow pins and their different bore sizes (0.8mm, 1.2mm, 1.5mm).
The adjustable airflow ring is so discreet that its presence is easily overlooked. Initially, my unit’s AFC was very stiff, seemingly fixed at its default setting of six pinprick-sized holes. While it loosens with use, it remains firm and, due to its low profile, is best adjusted when the RTA is off the device. The airflow control consists of a narrow slot on one side that can be aligned with a series of six tiny airflow holes or opened to a fully open slot. Various levels of restriction are achievable by partially opening the slot or using different combinations of airflow holes.
Close-up image of the adjustable airflow control ring, highlighting the small airflow holes and slot.
Initially, I experimented with changing airflow pins on the fly. However, this resulted in minor moisture appearing under the atomizer, likely due to e-liquid seeping into the 510 threading during pin swaps. Once I settled on a pin and refrained from frequent changes, this issue disappeared completely, confirming it wasn’t condensation or leaking from elsewhere. Wicking performance has been consistently excellent, with no dry hits or flooding experienced across multiple builds and re-wicking, even with 70VG e-liquids in both MTL and RDL configurations (at appropriate wattages for RDL).
The airflow system provides a full MTL spectrum, from ultra-tight to loose MTL draws. However, even with the largest airflow pin and the airflow slot fully open, the RDL draw is still quite restricted and not truly representative of a full DL experience. The 0.8mm pin delivers a tight draw, 1.2mm a medium-tight MTL, and 1.5mm a looser MTL. The adjustable airflow ring allows for further fine-tuning within these ranges. Personally, I found the 0.8mm airflow pin with the slot fully open provided my preferred tight MTL draw.
The bell chamber design is integral to the Pioneer’s flavor-centric design. The chamber is exceptionally compact with a nearly flat ceiling, maximizing vapor density. This concentrated vapor then travels up the narrow chimney and through the drip tip, resulting in a smooth and intensely flavorful vape.
Image illustrating the Pioneer RTA’s bell chamber and chimney design, emphasizing the compact chamber and narrow chimney for flavor concentration.
Building on the Pioneer MTL RTA Deck
The build deck features a dual-post design with single terminals per post, positioned side-by-side. Opposite the posts is a curved wall that mirrors the contour of the bell chamber. This design contributes to chamber reduction and coil placement guidance, aligning with the airflow outlet. However, this wall can slightly obstruct access when feeding coil leads into the terminals.
I found pre-cutting coil leads to a slightly longer length, with a slight upward bend at the ends, to be the easiest approach. This allows the leads to be slid into the gap between the posts and the opposing wall. The bend helps guide them through the open terminals, allowing the coil to slide over the chamber-reducing wall and into position. Position the coil centrally over the airflow outlet and secure the leads with the flathead screws. These screws are small and, in my opinion, less user-friendly than hex screws, which tend to be less fiddly and more durable.
The included coils are 2.5mm inner diameter (ID) fused Claptons, an ideal size for this RTA. While 3.0mm ID coils can be used, they require careful positioning to avoid contact with the bell chamber ceiling, especially in MTL mode, due to the extremely reduced chamber height.
Coil positioning is crucial. Use a coiling rod or similar tool to adjust the coil to the optimal height above the airflow outlet. Re-tighten the screws to secure the leads and then trim any excess wire.
Wicking is straightforward. The wicking channels are fed from the sides, with small juice inlets that should not be blocked by over-packed cotton. I found that wicking with just a slight friction when pulling cotton through the coil works best. Cut the cotton ends at a 45-degree angle to a “bow-tie” length and gently place the ends into the channels. Gravity and settling will take care of the rest. This method has consistently provided excellent wicking performance without leaks or dry hits.
Image of the Pioneer RTA build deck with a coil installed, highlighting the dual post design and airflow outlet.
The Versatile DL Conversion Kit
The DL Conversion Kit is presented with the same high standard as the RTA itself, in similarly styled, albeit smaller, packaging. It’s important to clarify that this kit transforms the Pioneer into a Restricted Direct Lung (RDL) atomizer, rather than a true Direct Lung (DL) tank. Marketing it as an RDL Conversion Kit would be more accurate.
The kit includes two additional 510 airflow pins: a 2.0mm hollow and a 2.9mm hollow. A replacement bell chamber section with an integrated chimney and fill port plate is also included. This DL chamber is taller and has a more rounded ceiling, while the chimney features a wider bore. Finally, the kit contains spare O-rings and a wide-bore Ultem 510 drip tip, better suited for RDL vaping.
Image showing the DL Conversion Kit contents, including the DL chimney, airflow pins, and wide bore drip tip.
Performance Differences with the DL Conversion Kit
The DL Conversion Kit allows for easier installation of larger 3.0mm ID coils. However, the build deck limitations remain, preventing the use of excessively thick gauge wire. The Pioneer, even in DL configuration, is not designed for high-wattage vaping. The larger airflow pins and taller bell chamber allow for slightly lifting the coil, promoting better airflow distribution across the coil surface. Beyond these changes, building and wicking remain similar to the MTL setup, simply with increased airflow.
The 2.0mm airflow pin provides a very restricted direct lung draw, while the 2.9mm pin offers a looser but still restricted direct lung experience. Again, I found the best performance with the narrow airflow slot fully open, rendering the adjustable airflow ring largely unnecessary in RDL mode.
Vaping Experience and Overall Thoughts
As you might have gathered, I am thoroughly impressed with both the build and vape quality of the Pioneer RTA in both MTL and RDL configurations. The vape quality is comparable to high-end RTAs costing significantly more. The most telling compliment I can give is that the Pioneer will comfortably sit alongside my collection of premium, expensive RTAs, with the key difference being its exceptional affordability – typically priced around $48, with the DL conversion kit under $20. This pioneer acceptance rta is gaining traction because it delivers high-end performance without the high-end price tag.
My personal vaping preference leans towards both MTL and smooth RDL, making the Pioneer particularly appealing. The included 2.5mm ID fused Clapton coils (0.8ohm, no further specs provided) paired with the 0.8mm airflow pin and fully open slot, vaped at just 12W, deliver a semi-tight, flavorful, condensed, and smooth MTL experience – a true flavor banger!
In RDL configuration, using the 2.0mm airflow pin, the draw falls into that desirable grey area between loose MTL and restricted DL, a style enjoyed by many vapers who like to switch between these two styles. The 2.9mm pin provides a more definitively restricted direct lung draw, though a true, open direct lung is not achievable due to the limitations of the outer airflow slot. Using a 0.48ohm fused Clapton (3.0mm ID – though I believe 2.5mm ID is optimal in both modes), vaped at 22W, the restricted direct lung vape was equally impressive, matching the MTL performance in flavor intensity. The Pioneer is a winner in both categories!
One point to note is that the RTA can become quite warm at higher wattages or during chain vaping, even in MTL mode. While not a major drawback, it’s worth mentioning. Additionally, when building for the DL Conversion Kit, aim for wattages between 20-25W, with a maximum push to perhaps 30W. The Pioneer is not designed for high-power DL vaping. I am so impressed with its performance that I plan to acquire a DLC version to dedicate to MTL, while keeping the Stainless Steel version set up with the DL Conversion Kit. I might even experiment with swapping the DL Kit onto the DLC tank – the silver base contrasting with the DLC top cap and tube could create a striking aesthetic.
Image showing the Pioneer MTL RTA on a mod, in a vaping setup.
Last Minute Update: Blade Top Cap
Just as this review was being finalized, BP Mods announced a new alternative top cap called the Blade Top Cap. This will be available in Stainless Steel for $8.99 and DLC for $9.99 (as spotted on their social media). This new top cap further expands the customization options for the Pioneer RTA.
Image showcasing the new Blade Top Cap for the Pioneer RTA, highlighting its design.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-end build quality
- High-end performance
- Exceptional value for money
- Full MTL draw spectrum
- Airflow pins and adjustable airflow provide extensive customization
- Excellent presentation (both RTA and DL Kit)
- Smooth airflow
- Flavor-banger performance
- Very quiet operation (virtually silent in my MTL setup)
- Smooth and flavorful restricted direct lung vape with DL Kit
- 3.7ml Standard Capacity
- Includes 3 MTL airflow pins
- Includes 3 drip tip options
- Includes 3 tank tube options
- Includes 2 MTL fused Clapton coils
- Standard 510 drip tip fitting
- Impeccable machining, threading, and tolerances (except for slightly stiff AFC)
- Smooth bayonet top-fill system
- Compatible with any size e-liquid bottle nozzle
- DL Kit includes extra airflow pins, RDL drip tip, larger chamber, and wider chimney
- No leaking experienced when not frequently swapping airflow pins
- No dry hits or flooding
Cons:
- Adjustable airflow ring is stiff and difficult to adjust on-device
- Tank can get warm above 20W or during chain vaping
- Wicking may require a slight learning curve for beginners
- Changing airflow pins on-the-fly is possible but not ideal
- Flathead screws are less user-friendly than hex screws
- No specifications provided for included coils
Once again, I extend my sincere thanks to both Dovpo and especially BP Mods for providing the Pioneer MTL RTA and DL Conversion Kit for this review. Thank you for reading, and vape safe!
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