THC carts, also known as weed carts or THC vape cartridges. They are the most popular way to consume THC oil. This article mainly covers what you need to know when using a weed pen cartridge.
What is in THC cartridges?
A THC vape pen includes a weed cart and a battery. The carts weed is prefilled with THC oil or concentrates. THC oil is extracted from the resin and concentrates of cannabis flowers or plants. The THC concentration typically ranges from 50% to 95% and comes in different strains like indica carts, sativa carts, or hybrid carts. The most common types of THC cart formulations are full-spectrum vape cartridges, concentrate vape cartridges, and CBD-specific vape cartridges.
What is a cart smoking?
A “cart” in smoking usually refers to THC cartridges. THC cartridges are prefilled weed cartridges that screw onto a 510 battery, forming a THC vape pen. The battery powers the cartridge to heat the weed oil. The user inhales the vaporized active ingredients through the cart smoke. Which later produces the desired effects on the mind and body.
Two designs:
Cartridge and battery as separate parts: 510 threading.
Most 510 threading cartridges and batteries are compatible with each other.
Cartridge and battery combined as one: THC disposable (all-in-one).
Just open the package, and it’s ready to use.
Why are THC cartridges popular?
- No mess, less odors, small size
- Convenient and discreet
- Long lasting
- More efficient than smoking
- Toys for young people
THC vape pens: potency and strength of effect
Factors affecting THC potency: THC concentration, strain selection, extraction method, extract purity, personal tolerance, vape pen current, and temperature settings.
THC%:
Represents the concentration of THC in cannabis oil. The higher the THC concentration, the stronger the potency.
- Delta 9 THC: Delta 9 is the most potent among the popular cannabis-derived compounds.
- Delta 8 THC: Potency is about half that of Delta 9.
- HHC: Potency is approximately 70-80% of Delta 9.
- THCV: Potency is half that of Delta 8.
- CBN: Very mild, with potency lower than THCV; it requires a large dose to produce intoxicating effects.
- CBD: Has no psychoactive effects on its own and is primarily used for calming and other medical purposes.
Strain selection:
Different cannabis strains contain varying levels of THC. Strains with higher THC content will produce stronger effects. Knowing the strain used in your cart weed vape can give you a better idea of its potential potency.
Extraction method:
The method used to extract THC also affects the potency of the final product. CO2 extraction and distillation produce more potent extracts compared to solvent-based methods.
Purity of the extract:
Pure THC extracts have higher potency levels compared to those that include other compounds. Full-spectrum extracts retain a range of cannabinoids and terpenes, resulting in a lower THC percentage. Offering an enhanced experience through the entourage effect.
Individual differences:
People react differently to the same product. Factors like gender, weight, and tolerance can influence the effects.
Vape pen device:
This is a double-edged sword. If the current is too high and the temperature is too hot, it will immediately produce a burnt taste. If the current is too low and the temperature is too cool, the vape pen does lower amp mean less THC. So, start with a low voltage and gradually find the balance between potency and flavor.
In summary, we recommend starting with a small amount and low voltage, then gradually increasing as you assess the effects. A beginner might take 2 to 3 puffs and feel the effects within about 30 minutes. A heavy user might need to hit the strongest smoking cart 10 times to feel the effects. High-potency products can benefit recreational users seeking a stronger experience and patients needing significant relief. On the other hand, beginners or those who prefer milder effects might be better off choosing lower-potency products.
THC cartridges and price
The price of THC carts depends on various factors such as size, extraction material, extraction method, oil type, oil quality, and the city you live in. The price for a 0.5ml cart varies, with a half gram cart price ranging, a 1 gram cart price between $15-60 USD, and a 2 gram cart price between $10-69 USD.
How many hits are in a cart?
Each person may inhale for a different length of time, so the number of puffs varies. Based on most people inhaling for 2-3 seconds per puff, you can estimate how many puffs you might get:
Do THC Cartridges Expire?
THC vape cartridges are effective within one year from the production date, but used carts should be finished within 3 months. Using expired carts will significantly reduce potency and flavor.
Over time, THC gradually converts to the cannabinoid CBN, losing its potency. Terpenes also lose their flavor due to heat, light, and oxidation. While an expired wax cart might still be usable, it will greatly diminish the overall experience. For specific instructions, refer to the article “How long do carts last until they go bad“
How to fix a clogged cart
If your vape pen is hard to draw from, it is usually due to oil leakage or condensation buildup causing a clogged cartridge. You can try using a paperclip to clear the blockage in the mouthpiece airway. Using a hairdryer to gently warm the THC vape pen or utilizing the device’s preheat function can help make the oil flow more smoothly. Allowing you to gradually clear the airway through slow, steady draws. For specific instructions, refer to the article “How to unclog a cart“
The above are some basic things you need to know about using a weed vape pen. Understanding how to use THC carts and the differences in THC potency can help you tailor the cannabis experience to your personal preferences and tolerance level when choosing a product.
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