What is THC Wax & How Do You Smoke It?
April 03, 2025
THC wax is a type of cannabis concentrate that’s very similar to crumble, budder, and shatter—you can think of them as close relatives in the large concentrate family. The wide variety of consistencies, textures, and appearances among concentrates is created during the extraction and purification process. So what is it that makes THC wax so … waxy? We’ll cover that and more below.
What is Cannabis Wax?
Cannabis wax is a type of cannabis concentrate named for its thick, gooey consistency and opaque amber color, similar to warm candle wax. It typically contains anywhere from 60-80% THC,1 but some varieties can reach upwards of 90%.7
How is THC Wax Made?
THC wax is made through a solvent-based extraction process that uses butane to strip terpenes and cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) from cured or flash-frozen cannabis plant material. The result is a substance called butane hash oil, which is then refined through several purification steps and stirred up into a wax-like consistency.2 And there you have it: THC wax.
Wax vs Other Types of Concentrate
The different production methods and steps taken in creating cannabis concentrates are what give them their distinct differences.
Wax vs Shatter
Shatter is a brittle concentrate that breaks easily into glass-like shards. It is one of the purest forms of cannabis concentrate, known for its hard consistency, golden-yellow color, and transparent appearance. While wax is stirred during processing, shatter is left undisturbed, allowing it to settle and harden into that flat, glassy look.3
Wax vs Budder
Budder, and its close cousin badder, has a creamy, frosting-like consistency due to its vigorous agitation following extraction, like how you might stir cake batter or whip butter. It’s softer and more scoopable than shatter, but a bit stickier and sometimes wetter than wax.4
Wax vs Crumble
Crumble is a dry, honeycomb-like concentrate with a tendency to “crumble” apart, hence the name. This unique consistency and texture is achieved through a “low and slow” step in the purification process, wherein crumble stays in a vacuum oven at low temperatures for a long time. It’s less sticky than budder, harder and drier than wax, and softer than shatter, making it a convenient concentrate to handle and use in different consumption methods.5
How Do You Consume Marijuana Wax?
One thing that makes marijuana wax so popular is its versatility. Here’s all the ways you can consume it:
Dab
Dabbing is one of the most common ways to consume concentrates. It requires an e-rig or a dab rig with a heating device. Simply place a dose of cannabis wax on the heated nail and inhale.
Infused Flower
You can consume wax with your favorite flower by purchasing infused pre-rolls or DIY-ing it at home. Melt the wax concentrate and add it to the inside or spread it around the outside of your joint or blunt. This is a practice known as twaxing.1 You can also combine wax with ground flower in a bowl or bong.
Vaporize
You can vaporize your THC wax with a dab pen. Similar to vape pens, dab pens are specialized devices designed to vaporize cannabis concentrates, so cannabis enthusiasts can enjoy their wax on the go. Just make sure your device is designed for use with concentrates. It should have a chamber or atomizer where you place the concentrate and a heating coil to heat the concentrate.6
FAQs About Wax
Still have more questions about the cannabis concentrate wax? Good thing we have more answers!
What is stronger: shatter, wax, or crumble?
It all depends on the batch. Shatter and crumble are quite potent on average, usually containing 80-90% THC. Wax concentrates can be anywhere between 60-90% THC.7 Be sure to check your product labels to know the exact potency!
How is shatter different from wax?
Shatter is a close relative of wax concentrate, but it possesses a glass-like consistency. Translucent, amber-colored, and incredibly brittle, shatter is processed in a very specific manner to achieve these unique properties.
What’s the best concentrate for beginners?
Concentrates are generally not recommended for cannabis newbies because of their immense THC levels. If you’re ready to try concentrates, you could opt for budder or crumble because they’re easier to work with.
Which concentrate is easiest to handle?
Many concentrate users say crumble is the easiest concentrate to handle because of its dry, crumbly texture. Budder, badder, and wax are all malleable and scoopable, but they tend to be sticky, which can require some technique when it comes to loading up a dab rig. Shatter’s brittle texture means you have to break off pieces, which can make it difficult to get the desired amount.7
Can you vape shatter, wax, and crumble?
Yes, you can vape shatter, wax, and crumble with a dab pen or vape pen, allowing concentrates to be enjoyed on the go and with less mess.
Choosing the Right Concentrate
Shopping for concentrates can sometimes make you feel like Goldilocks. Some can be too hard (like shatter) others can be too soft (like budder), but never fear—there is one out there that is just right for you. If you're unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to ask a budtender for guidance! They can help you navigate the options, understand potency levels, and choose the best method of consumption based on your preferences and experience level.
Sources:
1. “Wax,” Weedmaps, July 14, 2021, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/wax
2. “Shatter, Batter, Wax: How Cannabis Extracts Come to Be,” Wired, March 22, 2018, https://www.wired.com/story/shatter-batter-wax-how-cannabis-extracts-come-to-be/
3. “Shatter,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/shatter
4. “Badder, Batter, Budder,” Weedmaps, June 9, 2021, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/badder-budder-batter
5. “Crumble,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/crumble
6. “Wax Pens: What Are They, and How Do You Use One?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-a-wax-pen
7. “Concentrates 101: A Guide to Terms, Usage, Potency, and Testing,” ACS Laboratory, January 13, 2023, https://www.acslab.com/retail/cannabis-concentrates-guide
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
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As you’re shopping for your favorite cannabis flower, one term you'll inevitably encounter when deciding how much to buy is "eighth." The most commonly purchased amount of cannabis, an eighth is 3.5 grams or one-eighth of an ounce. In this guide, we'll demystify what exactly constitutes an eighth of cannabis, explore what it looks like, discuss its cost, and delve into the various ways you can make the most of this quantity.
What is an Eighth?
When people say “an eighth,” they’re referring to one-eighth of an ounce, or 3.5 grams of marijuana flower.1 Let’s break that down a little more: An ounce of marijuana is 28 grams, and when you divide 28 by 8, you get 3.5. Outside of dispensaries, you may hear an eighth referred to as a “slice,” because a whole pizza can typically be divided into eight slices.2
An eighth is just one of several standardized amounts sold in dispensaries, along with a gram, a quarter, a half, and an ounce. An eighth is often the most common amount of flower purchased because many cannabis enthusiasts find it provides a perfect balance: It’s enough for multiple sessions (depending on your consumption habits), but not an overwhelming amount that might go bad before you can get through all of it.3 An eighth is also a great way to sample new types of cannabis, from beginner strains to more potent varieties.
Wait, What's Up with These Cannabis Measurements?
If all these measurements have your head spinning, you’re not alone. While the U.S. sticks to the imperial system for most things, cannabis is still measured in grams—bringing the metric system into the mix. This can make conversions tricky and add an extra layer of confusion when shopping at your local dispensary. However, understanding cannabis quantities is essential, as possession limits vary widely from state to state. Knowing exactly how much you have can help you stay within legal guidelines and make more informed purchasing decisions.
What Does an Eighth of Cannabis Look Like?
The appearance of an eighth can vary depending on the density of the buds—which differs from strain to strain—but it will always weigh the same.1 If you prefer dense, top-shelf buds, just a couple of chunky nugs might make up your entire eighth. On the other hand, strains with smaller, more compact, “popcorn” buds may take a handful to reach the same weight. You may also be able to buy eighths of shake or kief, both of which will also appear different. Generally, an eighth tends to amount to 2-4 buds of cannabis. For a visual comparison, an eighth of cannabis is roughly the size of a kiwi.4
How Much Does an Eighth of Flower Cost?
An eighth’s cost fluctuates based on a few things, including the type of strain you’re buying and what state you’re buying it in. If you’re looking to purchase an eighth, you could spend anywhere from $25 to $60. It really depends on your state’s specific cannabis market.5
What Can You Do With an Eighth of Flower?
You might think 3.5 grams worth of flower isn’t enough, but if you’re not a heavy consumer, or you want to sample a few different strains, an eighth can be the perfect amount. Here’s what you can do with an eighth of flower:
Roll Three 1-Gram Joints
An eighth of cannabis provides enough flower to roll approximately three standard-sized joints. That’s enough to get some cannabis enthusiasts through an average workweek. Just remember to store flower properly to ensure you don’t waste your freshly-rolled bud.5
Roll Seven 0.5-Gram Joints
You can stretch your eighth even further by rolling smaller joints. By using just 0.5 grams per joint, you can roll up to seven, making this a great option if you prefer lighter sessions or like to share with friends without going through your supply too quickly.5
Roll 2 Blunts
Blunts typically contain around 1-1.5 grams of cannabis each, meaning an eighth will yield two standard blunts with about 0.5 grams left over. If you prefer thinner blunts, you could stretch your eighth to roll three.6 Either way, make sure to use a quality wrap and store them properly to maintain flavor and moisture.
Pack 15 One-Hitters
For those who prefer quick, controlled doses, an eighth provides enough cannabis to pack approximately 15 one-hitters, assuming each holds about 0.25 grams. This method is perfect for microdosing or discreet consumption throughout the day.
Pack 7 Bowls
The number of bowls you can pack from an eighth depends on the size of your piece and your packing style. If you typically pack half-gram bowls, you’ll get around seven full sessions. For smaller bowls, you might be able to extend your stash even further.7
How Long Will an Eighth Last?
Think of an eighth as the perfect amount to buy to try a strain for the first time. Depending on your consumption habits, it could give you enough sessions to make it through the weekend, or it could last you through the whole week. In general, how long an eighth lasts is going to be entirely dependent on you as a consumer.3 Heavy smokers are going to get a couple of days while light smokers could get more than a week.
How Does an Eighth Compare to Other Marijuana Measurements?
An eighth isn’t the only marijuana measurement worth knowing. It’s also good to know what a quarter and an ounce are. Here’s how an eighth measures up against other common quantities:
How Many Grams Are in an Eighth?
An eighth of marijuana weighs exactly 3.5 grams. While that number may seem small, it’s enough to roll multiple joints, pack several bowls, or even make a few blunts. For a real-world comparison, 3.5 grams is about the weight of a quarter teaspoon of sugar.
How Many Eighths Are in a Quarter?
A quarter of marijuana, sometimes called a “quad,” refers to a quarter (¼) of an ounce, or 7 grams. This means a quarter comprises two eighths, with each eighth weighing around 3.5 grams.8 If you’re looking to stock up without committing to a full ounce, a quarter is often a great middle ground.
How Many Eighths Are in an Ounce?
An eighth gets its name because it’s one-eighth of an ounce. An ounce of cannabis weighs 28 grams, and there are exactly eight eighths (3.5 grams) in an ounce. Buying in larger quantities, like an ounce, is often more cost-effective per gram, making it a popular choice for regular consumers who want to save money and reduce trips to the dispensary.8
FAQs About an Eighth of Cannabis
Navigating through cannabis measurements can be confusing, but asking questions is a great way to become more knowledgeable. Here are answers to a few common questions:
Is an eighth the same as a slice?
Yes, an eighth is colloquially referred to as a "slice," emphasizing its one-eighth portion of an ounce.2
Is an eighth the same as 3.5 grams?
Yes, an eighth is precisely 3.5 grams, or one-eighth of an ounce (which is 28 grams).
What is a five-gram eighth?
A five-gram eighth is a great deal for cannabis consumers, offering an extra 1.5 grams on top of the standard 3.5 grams—all for the same price. If you spot a five-gram eighth sale at your local dispensary, it’s worth taking advantage of, as you're essentially getting 1.5 grams of cannabis as a bonus.7
How much does an eighth cost?
An eighth can cost anywhere from $25 to $60, but the price you pay will depend on several factors, including strain type, marijuana quality, and your state’s cannabis market and taxes.5
How many joints can you roll with an eighth of cannabis?
The number of joints you can roll from an eighth of cannabis depends on the size of each joint. If you prefer larger, full-sized joints, you can roll three 1-gram joints from an eighth. Rolling smaller, half-gram joints means you’ll get about seven joints out of your eighth.5
Buying an Eighth of Flower
Whether you're exploring beginner strains or searching for more potent options, an eighth of flower is a perfect amount to experiment with. It gives you the flexibility to roll joints or blunts, pack bowls, and indulge however you like. And, if you’re a smart dispensary shopper, keep an eye out for those five-gram deals to get a little extra bang for your buck.
Sources:
1. “Eighth,” Leafly.com, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/eighth
2. “Slice,” Ganjapreneur, https://www.ganjapreneur.com/vocab/slice/
3. “A visual guide to the most common measurements of weed,” Business Insider, May 13, 2022, https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/home/weed-measurements
4. “Marijuana Measurements & Sizes,” Montana Department of Revenue, https://mtrevenue.gov/cannabis/education/marijuana-measurements-sizes/
5. “How Much Is an Eighth of Weed?” Veriheal, September 9, 2024, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/how-much-is-an-eighth-of-weed/
6. “What is an 8th of Weed?” NuggMD, February 5, 2025, https://www.nuggmd.com/blog/what-is-an-8th-of-weed
7. “How much is an eighth of weed?” Weedmaps, August 25, 2022, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/how-much-is-an-eighth
8. “The complete guide to weed measurements and prices,” Weedmaps.com, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/weed-measurements
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Have you ever noticed that fine, golden powder collecting at the bottom of your grinder? That’s kief, one of the most potent and versatile parts of the cannabis plant. Packed with terpenes and cannabinoids, kief is a concentrate that can take your cannabis consumption to the next level. The possibilities are endless, from sprinkling it on flower to making moon rocks. In this guide, you’ll learn what kief is, what to do with kief, and why it’s so popular.
What is Kief?
Kief is a fine, powdery concentrate that comes from the trichome heads of cannabis flowers. These resin glands are where cannabis plants store most of their terpenes, cannabinoids, and other flavorful compounds. When trichomes are separated from the plant, they form kief, which is often referred to as THC sand for its potent effects and golden, yellowish-green, or green-brown color.1
Kief is highly fragrant since it’s packed with cannabinoids. It is also incredibly potent with up to 50% THC–far more than regular flower. Its loose texture makes it versatile for smoking, cooking, or pressing into hash.
How Is Kief Different From Hash?
If you’ve heard of kief and hash, you might wonder what sets them apart. These two cannabis concentrates are closely related, but their form and how they’re used make all the difference.2
Here’s how kief and hash differ:
- Kief is loose, powdery, and easy to collect in grinders with a kief catcher. It’s lighter in texture and typically used as an additive to enhance flower or edibles. While kief is potent on its own, it’s best combined with other cannabis products for a boosted experience.
- Hash (the casual term for hashish) is made by compressing kief using heat and pressure, resulting in dense bricks, chunks, or balls. Its compact form makes it more versatile for standalone use, whether smoked, dabbed, or vaporized. Hash also tends to have a stronger aroma and flavor than loose kief.
How Do You Extract Kief?
Kief is one of the easiest concentrates to extract, and if you’ve been using a grinder, you probably already have some! But you can also buy kief at your local LivWell dispensary. Whether you’re looking for small or large quantities, here are the best methods for extracting kief:
Kief Catcher
The easiest way to collect kief is using a grinder with a built-in kief catcher, which separates the fine powder from cannabis flower. There are two popular grinder options to catch kief:
- Two-chamber grinders: These grinders collect some kief, but their limited design often results in storing smaller amounts.
- Four-chamber grinders: Equipped with a fine screen, these grinders are designed to sift kief into a separate compartment, allowing you to collect more over time.
Although this method requires patience to build up a stash, it’s low-effort and ideal for casual cannabis enthusiasts who don’t need large quantities at once.
Kief Box
If you want to extract large quantities of kief, a kief box is the way to go. These boxes feature two chambers: one for sifting and one for collecting. Simply add flower, close the box, and shake to separate the kief from the buds. All of the kief will fall into the collection chamber.3
Grinder Coin
Placing a clean, small coin in your grinder’s chamber can help dislodge more trichomes, pushing them toward the kief catcher. Just ensure the coin fits with room to spare so the coin can move around to dislodge the kief and keep it clean for the best results. If you have a micro-grinder, use a dime or nickel; if it’s bigger, use a quarter.4 We also recommend keeping a dedicated coin to help you harvest kief from flower.
How to Use Kief
Kief is one of the most versatile and easy-to-use cannabis concentrates, perfect for enhancing your sessions or trying something new.
Add to Flower
Here’s how you can add kief to flower:
- Crown your bowl: Fill your pipe or bong’s bowl about a quarter of the way with flower, sprinkle some kief, and layer it with more flower and kief. This layering is key, since it helps the kief burn evenly without wasting it.
- Twaxing: Coat your joint or blunt with kief by licking the paper and adding kief to the end, inside, or outside for a more potent smoking experience.
- Make moon rocks: Create these potent nuggets by dipping buds in concentrate (like hash oil) and rolling them in kief. Break up the moon rocks to smoke in a joint, add to a bowl or pipe, or even vape them.
Make Edibles
Kief’s lack of plant matter makes it perfect for edibles, as it results in less of a marijuana taste. However, you must decarboxylate it first to activate the THC. Add it to infused recipes for a potent treat, but be careful how much you use since it’s much stronger than flower.5
Press into Hash
Want to make your own hash? All you need is kief, parchment paper, and a little heat:
- Place kief between folded parchment paper.
- Use a hair straightener to apply heat and pressure for a few seconds.
- Let it cool, and enjoy your homemade hash.
FAQs About Kief
Want to know more about kief, like “how to smoke kief”? These frequently asked questions will clear up everything you need to know.
Do I have to buy kief?
While you can buy kief at your local dispensary, you can collect kief by using your grinder.
Can you dab kief?
Dabbing kief isn’t recommended because it won’t burn evenly.
Is kief illegal?
Kief is typically legal in areas where cannabis is legal, but always check your local laws to be sure.
How strong is kief?
Kief is highly potent, with THC levels around 50%.
Can you eat kief?
You can eat kief, but it needs to be decarboxylated first to activate the THC. Without decarbing, it won’t have any psychoactive effects, but it may still have therapeutic benefits.
Purchasing Kief
Kief is a versatile and potent cannabis product that can elevate your experience in countless ways. Whether sprinkling it on flower, making edibles, or pressing it into hash, kief unlocks a world of possibilities. Visit your local LivWell dispensary to learn more, or stock up on high-quality kief today.
Sources:
1. “Kief,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/kief
2. “Kief vs. Hash - What’s the Difference and How Can They Be Used?” Veriheal, April 19, 2022, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/concentrates/kief-vs-hash/
3. “What is kief and how to use it?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/how-to-smoke-kief
4. “What’s a ‘Grinder Coin,’ and How Does It Affect Your Kief Collection?” Leafly, September 27, 2021, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-a-grinder-coin-for-kief-collection
5. “What Is Kief, and Should You Use It?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-kief-and-should-you-use-it
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Vaping is a popular way to consume marijuana thanks to its convenience and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a sleek THC vape pen, a dry herb vaporizer, or a dab rig, there’s a vaping device for you. In this guide, you’ll learn everything about THC vapes, including how they work, the different types, and tips for choosing the best vaporizer.
What is a THC Vape?
A THC vape, also called a vape cartridge or vape pen, is a sleek, portable device that vaporizes cannabis products like THC distillate or concentrates. These devices typically feature a small chamber or cartridge filled with cannabis oil, a battery heater, and a mouthpiece for inhaling the vapor. Vape pens are discreet and easy to use, making them a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts.1
Unlike smoking a joint, blunt, or bong, which burns cannabis,2 vaping uses lower temperatures to transform cannabinoids and terpenes into a smooth, inhalable vapor. This preserves flavor and potency while reducing harsh byproducts. Over the years, vaping technology has evolved, offering everything from simple pens to advanced rigs designed for dry herb or concentrates, making it one of the most versatile ways to enjoy cannabis.3
How Do Vaporizers Work?
Vaporizers use heat to release cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis flower or concentrates, creating vapor you inhale. Here’s a breakdown of how they work:4
- Cannabis products you can vape: A marijuana vape is versatile and works with various products, including flower, oil, and concentrates.
- Conduction vs convection: Vaporizers heat cannabis using one of two methods: conduction (involving direct exposure to a heating element) or convection (involving exposure to a flow of hot air).5 Some models combine both methods for more balanced heating and better flavor.
- Temperature precision: Vaporizers let you control the heat, activating cannabinoids and terpenes at specific temperatures. This precision enhances flavor, potency, and the overall experience by preserving the cannabis compounds.
- Vapor production: As the cannabis heats up, cannabinoids and terpenes turn into a smooth, inhalable vapor. This process eliminates combustion, giving you a cleaner, more flavorful experience.
Types of Marijuana Vaporizers
Vaporizers come in various styles, each catering to different preferences and cannabis products.
Vape Pens
Marijuana vape pens are slim, portable devices designed for vaping THC distillate or liquid concentrates like live resin. They are available in two main types:6
- All-in-one pens: These disposable devices, also known as AIO vapes, are pre-filled with a built-in battery—perfect for beginners or those who want a hassle-free experience.
- Cartridges and batteries: Reusable pens require a separate battery and vape cartridges, which are replaceable and often more cost-effective in the long run.
Pros:
- Portable and discreet: Easy to carry and use on the go.7
- User-friendly: Ideal for beginner cannabis consumers, requiring only minimal setup.
Cons:
- Limited to oils and concentrates: Not compatible with flower.
- Less powerful: May lack the intensity of other vaping methods.
Dry Herb Vaporizers
Dry herb vaporizers are designed to heat cannabis flower without combustion, preserving flavor and potency. They come in two main types:8
- Portable or handheld devices: Compact and convenient, perfect for on-the-go use.
- Desktop or tabletop vaporizers: Larger, stationary units, ideal for at-home sessions.
Pros:
- Versatile: Lets you use whole cannabis flower directly.
- Flavorful: Produces vapor that highlights the natural terpenes.
Cons
- Requires maintenance: Needs regular cleaning to stay effective.
- Less portable (desktop models): Not as discreet as vape pens.
Dab Rigs and Dab Pens
Dab rigs and dab pens are used to flash vaporize (at hot temperatures of 400-600°F or 204-315°C) cannabis concentrates (called dabs) like shatter, crumble, or budder.9 This is called dabbing. These devices come in three main types:
- Dab pens: Portable, pen-shaped devices, dab pens are designed specifically for vaping dabs and concentrates.
- Dab rigs: Traditional glass setups require a butane torch for heating.
- E-rigs: Electronic dab rigs offer precise temperature control.10
Pros:
- Highly potent: Perfect for experienced cannabis enthusiasts.
- Flavorful and efficient: Maximizes the experience with concentrates.11
Cons:
- Not beginner-friendly: Requires more setup and knowledge.
- Higher cost: E-rigs and glass rigs can be expensive.
What Is Already-Vaped Bud (AVB)?
Already-vaped bud (AVB) is the byproduct left after vaping cannabis flower. Because you didn’t burn flower, it didn’t turn to ash. The potency depends on your vaporizer’s temperature settings. Flower vaped with hot air at 315-440°F (157-226°C) can still be strong, so why not use it twice? While it’s less potent, AVB contains cannabinoids and can be repurposed in edibles, capsules, tinctures, or topicals.12
How to Choose a Vaporizer
When picking the perfect THC vape, consider these factors:
Product Compatibility
When choosing a vaporizer, match the device with the type of cannabis product you plan to use. Here’s how to pick the right one:
- Concentrates: A dab pen, dab rig, or e-rig works best for vaporizing concentrates like wax, shatter, or THC distillate.
- Flower: A dry herb vaporizer is perfect for using whole cannabis flower. These vaporizers heat flower evenly, preserving its natural flavors and terpenes.
- THC oil: A vape pen is the ideal choice for THC oil. These devices are designed to handle liquid cannabis products.
Experience With Cannabis
Your experience level matters when picking a vaporizer. Disposable vape pens are beginner-friendly, require no setup, and offer simplicity. Dabbing, on the other hand, is better suited for experienced users because it requires tools and knowledge. If you prefer flower, a dry herb vaporizer is a great choice.
Required Maintenance
Maintenance varies depending on the vaporizer. Vape pens require little to no upkeep, making them a low-maintenance option. In contrast, you must regularly clean dab rigs, dab pens, and dry herb vaporizers to prevent residue buildup and ensure optimal performance. Taking care of your device extends its lifespan and improves the overall experience.
FAQs About Cannabis Vaporizers
Got questions about cannabis vaporizers? Let’s break down some common queries.
How are smoke and vapor different?
Smoke is a byproduct of combustion, the chemical reaction that occurs when you put a flame to your cannabis flower. Vapor is a byproduct of vaporization, the chemical process that turns a solid or liquid into a gas. Research suggests that vapor contains fewer carcinogenic compounds than smoke because of the lower temperature required, making it less harmful to our lungs and overall health.13
What's the difference between conduction and convection?
Conduction heats cannabis through direct contact with a heated surface, while convection uses hot air to vaporize it. Convection heats more evenly and preserves flavor, while conduction heats faster.13
How much do vaporizers cost?
Prices vary widely, from $10 for a disposable vape to $1,000 or more for a high-end dab rig.
Are dry herb vapes stronger than dabs?
The concentrates used in dabbing are often significantly more potent than the cannabis flower you’d use in a dry herb vaporizer. However, you can infuse your flower with kief or concentrates for a stronger effect. You’ll just need to make sure your dry herb vaporizer is capable of handling concentrates (only some models on the market are) and that you thoroughly clean your dry herb vape after every session.14
Choosing the Right Vaporizer
The right vaporizer depends on your preferences, experience, and needs. Choose between the simplicity of a vape pen, the versatility of a dry herb vaporizer, or the potency of dabbing. Visit your local LivWell dispensary to explore your options and find your perfect match!
Sources:
1. “What is cannabis vaping and how does it work?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/what-is-cannabis-vaping
2. “Combustion,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/combustion
3. “Vaporization,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/vaporization
4. “Dab Pen vs. Vape Pen: What’s the Difference?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/dab-pen-vs-vape-pen
5. “Conduction vs. convection vaporizers – a comparison,” VapeFully, January 18, 2024, https://vapefully.com/for-beginners/conduction-vs-convection-vaporizers/
6. “Vape pen,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/vape-pen
7. “Weed vape pen,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/vape-pen
8. “What Is a Dry Herb Vaporizer?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-a-dry-herb-vaporizer
9. “What is dabbing?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/dabs
10. “What is an e-rig or e-nail?” Leafly, May 9, 2024, https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/dabs/enails-erigs-for-dabs
11. “Dabbing,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/dabbing
12. “Recycling vaporized cannabis: 10 ways to use AVB (‘already vaped bud’),” Leafly, September 26, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis
13. “The Difference Between Cannabis Combustion and Vaporization, Explained,” Weedmaps, May 2, 2019, https://weedmaps.com/news/2019/05/the-difference-between-cannabis-combustion-and-vaporization-explained/
14. “Can You Put Concentrate in a Dry Herb Vape?” Furna, January 24, 2022, https://getfurna.com/blogs/vaporizers/put-concentrates-in-dry-herb-vape
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.