Review: The Hitoki Saber: Portable Laser Power

When the laser-powered Hitoki Trident vaporizer debuted, it caught the attention of cannabis aficionados from Long Beach to Long Island. The patent-pending device offered the ultimate vaping experience with an uber-modern edge. Now, founders Joe and Jack Tran are at it again with their new Hitoki Saber, which is a smaller, portable rendition of the Trident. The Saber claims to be the world’s first modular laser that can be attached to a water pipe.

I wanted to learn more about the Saber, so I spoke to the Tran brothers to get some solid tips on using the device for maximum results before trying it myself.

The Saber’s Top Features

The Saber uses the same laser technology as the Hitoki Trident, so it’s an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers—no need for butane or even hemp wicks to burn your buds. Like the Trident, the Saber offers you the cleanest and most flavorful smoking experience by combusting cannabis with light energy, giving a clean hit that lets you taste the flavor of your flower. The terp-tasting experience is Joe’s favorite thing about the Saber, and he says it has to be experienced first-hand to understand the difference.

“The super potent, pungent, tasty aroma and aftertaste that lingers when you use lasers as a combustion source is unmatched as far as anything I’ve tried,” Joe says. “When you have some excellent stuff and you hit it with the laser—even after the hit, when you inhale and exhale—every breath brings back the smell and taste. You have to try it to understand and appreciate the experience.”

The Hitoki Saber’s modular design allows for easy use with any 14 mm or 18 mm glass piece. This adaptability is Jack’s favorite aspect of the device. “I love seeing how seamlessly the Saber fits into all types of rigs,” he says.

The unique modular design makes using and cleaning it a breeze. The Saber is multi-functional, meaning it works with both flower and concentrates. Additionally, it has three temperature settings with blue being the highest for concentrates; green for fresher, denser blends; and red for drier flower.

According to Joe, part of what makes the Saber so user-friendly is that it was specifically designed around feedback from Hitoki Trident customers. “Our customers wanted glass instead of acrylic, something that didn’t tip over as easily, and more compact and easier to handle. So, we designed the Saber to be lighter and more compact,” Joe says.

The Hitoki Saber is the world’s first modular water pipe.

Hitoki’s dedication to satisfying its customers is evident with the new Saber.

“We always want to create things everyone can enjoy, and the smaller size fits into people’s lifestyles,” Jack adds.

Not only is the Saber easy to use and take with you, but it’s also extremely efficient. (It is powered by lasers, after all.)

“Hitoki laser products are designed for customers to get the most out of their flower or extracts,” Joe says. “A huge chunk of our customers have told us that they consume less with the same effect.” 

Like with anything new, there’s a learning curve to using the Hitoki Saber. And when it comes to getting the most out of your device and having the best experience possible, the Tran brothers remind customers to remember these three things for a great draw every single time:

Always use the device’s dual tool: “The pointy end is for clearing air holes that may get clogged. The flat end flattens the surface of your flower, which will allow the laser to get an even ignition. This means the glowing ember will spread evenly throughout the loading chamber as you draw.” 

Don’t hit it like a bong or a pipe; hit it like a vaporizer: “For the best results, take a medium-to-long comfortable inhale to give the laser time to build an ember. The resulting exhale produces nice thick vapor clouds and the best-tasting experience.”

Keep it clean. “After every 10-30 hits, clean it thoroughly. Doing this will make it easy to clean the next time you need to clean it and keep everything tasting the way the craft growers intended it to.”

My Experience Using the Hitoki Saber

Full disclosure: I’m already a fan of Hitoki’s flagship Trident laser bong and was excited to try the new Saber to see how the smaller version would hold up compared to the original.

The first thing I noticed when unboxing the Saber was the noticeable size difference compared to the Trident. It’s a much more portable device, making it perfect for tokers on the move. You can throw the Saber into your backpack and easily take it wherever you go. But don’t be fooled by its compact size—the Saber still packs plenty of punch and can be used 60 times per charge. It takes 45 minutes to fully charge.

The next thing I noticed was how luxe the device felt. The upgrade to a glass chamber makes it feel sturdy and has a good weight. 

Ok, so five stars for form, but how well does it function?

I quickly disconnected the laser chamber by turning it counterclockwise and loaded the ceramic heating chamber with some delicious organically grown Wedding Cake. Jack’s words echoed in my ears as I remembered to even out the flower with the flat side of the metal dual tool. The loading chamber can take .2, .3 or .5 grams of flower. I then reassembled the base and connected it to the Hitoki glass bubbler. The stage was set—it was time to ignite the lasers.

Following the instructions, I clicked the button on the top five times to power on the Hitoki Saber and heat up the laser. Depending on your preference, you can switch between three power levels by clicking the button to rotate to your favorite temperature setting. I decided on green for my deliciously resinous ground buds. I double-tapped the button again to activate the laser, which lasted for ten seconds (alternatively, you can hold it down while you inhale and release it when you’re finished). I remembered Joe’s advice and drew in long and slow, fully realizing the delicious taste of the flower. The resulting exhale was a cloudy plume that left me feeling relaxed and euphoric.

The high-quality Hitoki Saber is packed with features that make it an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, efficient and conversation-starting device. The updated modular design is user-friendly and while it is small, this super cool cylindrical device provides a truly elevated experience.

The post Review: The Hitoki Saber: Portable Laser Power appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Presenting the High Times Cannabis Cup Oregon: People’s Choice Edition 2023

In one of the most beautiful states in the U.S., the High Times Cannabis Cup Oregon: People’s Choice Edition returns for the first time since 2020. Oregonians, get ready to see what cannabis business owners in your state are made of!

Back in 2020 during the height of the pandemic, High Times endeavored to bring its People’s Choice Edition to Oregon. In January 2021, the winners list showed heavy hitters like Strawberry Guava, Mimosa, Platinum Candy Mintz, and Blueberry Muffins take first prize. Pre-rolls and concentrates made from Banana Punch Live Rosin, while Tropicanna Cookies Solventless Rosin Vapes and a variety of delicious infused chocolates from brands like Crop Circle Chocolate, Alchemy Naturals (previously known as Lunchbox Alchemy) and baked foods from Hapy Kitchen, and Koala Edibles took the cake.

Now two years later, things have changed for the better. The World Health Organization officially announced that COVID-19 is no longer a global health emergency. The cannabis industry has continued to thrive, and Oregon is a hotbed for cannabis growth and innovation (not to mention a home to psilocybin too!) This time around, our High Times Cannabis Cup Oregon: People’s Choice Edition 2023 has been expanded to include categories such as infused pre-rolls, solvent and non-solvent concentrates, and sublinguals, capsules, tinctures and topicals as well:

Entry Categories:

  1. Indica Flower (3 entries max per company)
  2. Sativa Flower (3 entries max per company)  
  3. Hybrid Flower (3 entries max per company)
  4. Pre-Rolls (2 entries max per company)
  5. Infused Pre-Rolls (1 entry max per company)
  6. Solvent Concentrates (2 entries max per company)
  7. Non-Solvent Concentrates (2 entries max per company)
  8. Vape Pens & Cartridges (2 entries max per company) (category may split)
  9. Edibles: Gummies & Fruit Chews (3 entries max per company)
  10. Edibles: Chocolates & Non-Gummies (3 entries max per company)
  11. Sublinguals, Capsules, Tinctures + Topicals (3 entries max per company)

This summer between July 17-19, products will be submitted for intake at Shadowbox, our intake partner, located in Portland. Our team will carefully curate the judge kits, which will become available for purchase on July 29. From there, Oregonians will have the opportunity to pick up a kit to judge products for nearly two months, with a deadline set for September 24. Finally, we invite everyone to tune into our digital awards show to be held later this year on October 9.

If you’re an interested competitor, we’ve got plenty of options to help get your products into the hands of the people! Pricing depends on the number of products being submitted, with one entry set at $250 (non-refundable), two entries at $100 each (non-refundable), and three entries or more at $100 each (deposit per entry held, refunded when all entries are successfully submitted). There are also a limited number of sponsorships available, and entry fees are waived for those who choose to sponsor the event. Please keep the following in mind for entries:

Entry Requirements:

  • Flower: (228) 1-gram samples. We will not accept any 3.5-gram entries.
  • Pre-Rolls & Infused Pre-Rolls: (228) samples: Pre-Rolls will be capped at 2g flower-only each; Infused Pre-Rolls are capped at 1g total net weight each as the combination of flower and concentrates is then only considered a full weight of concentrates. 
  • Concentrates & Vape Pens: (228) .5-gram samples. We will not accept any 1-gram entries. Batteries required for carts.
  • Edibles: (100) samples with 100mg THC max.
  • Sublinguals, Capsules, Tinctures + Topicals: (60) samples with 500mg THC max.

Each of our People’s Choice Cups showcase such a unique selection of products available to consumers in each state, from Massachusetts and Michigan to New Mexico and Southern California. We can’t wait to see what Oregon has in store for everyone.

A special thank you to our Official Intake Partner, Shadowbox!

Exclusive dispensaries coming soon!

The post Presenting the High Times Cannabis Cup Oregon: People’s Choice Edition 2023 appeared first on High Times.

Discovering THCA Flower

THCA flower contains tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, which is the raw form of THC. As opposed to THC, THCA isn’t psychoactive, so it doesn’t get you high. THCA is believed to offer various health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. It is also suggested that THCA can aid in focus and maintaining healthy energy levels, although more research is needed to confirm these claims. THCA must be heated or decarboxylated to convert it into THC.

One of THCA flower’s unique features is its versatility. You can enjoy it either raw, which provides non-euphoric benefits, or have it converted  into THC  by applying heat.  This natural process, called decarboxylation, unlocks the euphoric effects many enthusiasts prefer, turning THCA Flower into the most potent type of hemp flower around.

Legality of THCA Flower

In the United States, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and its derivatives, including THCA flower, as long as the plant contains less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Individual states may have their own laws and regulations so it’s best to check local laws before purchasing or using THCA flower.

Heat and Time Transform THCA Into THC

In the world of cannabis, the process of transforming THCA into THC is called decarboxylation, and it can occur through heat or time. When cannabis is smoked or vaporized, heat instantly transforms THCA into THC, allowing for the immediate effects many consumers are looking for.

However, decarboxylation can also occur over time. If a cannabis plant is left in the sun for too long, its THCA molecules will slowly convert to THC, leading to a more potent and psychoactive experience. In addition to the sun, decarboxylation can occur naturally over time due to aging or storage conditions.

It’s worth noting that THCA and THC offer different benefits, so understanding the difference is important for users. While THCA provides non-euphoric benefits like helping with concentration and maintaining healthy energy levels, THC stimulates a more traditional and elevated experience.

Courtesy Hemp Doctor

THCA Flower Potency

Are you wondering if THCA flower can provide the same potency as regular cannabis? The answer is yes, but with some nuances.

THCA flower contains THCA, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that only becomes THC when heated through a process called decarboxylation. Once heated, THCA transforms into THC, producing euphoric effects comparable to regular weed. However, the strength and flavor of the THCA flower depend on different factors such as strain, potency, and individual tolerance.

Individual factors such as tolerance and dosage can also affect the strength of THCA flower compared to regular cannabis. Experts recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing consumption to avoid unwanted effects.

While THCA Flower can produce similar effects to traditional cannabis when heated, THCA Flower possesses several unique characteristics. For instance, THCA flower is non-euphoric in its raw form, offering different benefits than regular cannabis such as helping with concentration and focus, as well as maintaining healthy energy levels.

THCA flower provides a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional flower. It contains different cannabinoids and terpenes that serve to complement the THCA and offer unique tastes and aromas. When it comes to strength, THCA flower can pack a punch, and its effects are influenced by a range of factors that make its use unique.

Despite its differences, THCA flower can provide an enjoyable and transformative experience for users looking for a new perspective.

Does THCA Show Up On A Drug Test?

Most drug tests are designed to detect THC. Since THCA is not psychoactive, it typically won’t trigger a positive result on a drug test.

That being said, some drug tests may be sensitive enough to detect THCA in your system, which could result in a false positive. This is particularly true of tests that use immunoassay screening, which are common in many workplaces and government agencies. Immunoassay-based tests are designed to detect a range of cannabinoids, including THC and its derivatives, but they can sometimes produce false positives for other compounds. It’s best to abstain from consuming THCA flower if you know that you’ll be subjected to a drug test in the near future.

How to Use THCA Flower

You can use THCA flower in various ways. If you prefer to activate THCA into THC, you can smoke or vaporize it, or use a dry herb vape for a smokeless experience. Alternatively, you can juice it, sprinkle it over your favorite food, soak it in olive oil, or mix it into butter for various culinary uses. THCA hemp flower can make a potent addition to edibles, providing longer-lasting euphoria.

  • Smoking: When a flame is used to smoke dried, cured bud, the high degree of heat applied in a short amount of time rapidly converts THCA to THC.
  • Vaporizing: When heated at a relatively low temperature, cannabinoid acids are converted. Continuing to increase the heat will ensure that the maximum amount of THCA is converted into THC.
  • Dabbing: Similar to vaping, dabbing also decarboxylates THCA into active THC. Crystalline is the THCA form most likely to be used for dabbing.
  • Baking: For intoxicating homemade edibles, you’ll want to decarboxylate the weed before infusing it in butter or oil, and you can use your oven to do it.
Courtesy Hemp Doctor

Buy Premium Quality THCA Flower

If you’re looking for premium-quality THCA flower, The Hemp Doctor has you covered! Here are some of their most popular strains:

Buttermilk Cookies

Buttermilk Cookies is a full-bodied, calming high that will boost your mood and provide you with an incredibly blissful experience. Its natural yet powerful euphoric effects make it the ideal evening companion!

Gelato

Gelato’s unique blend of indica and sativa creates an experience like no other. A euphoric feeling rushes in, numbing pain for a deep relaxation that also keeps the mind clear and productive – waking or sleeping! This strain leaves its mark on every user who indulges.

Italian Ice 

Italian Ice is an Indoor Exotic THCA strain renowned for its balanced and sublime effects. This immensely popular Hybrid is a cross between Gelato 45 & Forbidden Fruit strains, providing the perfect balance of flavorsome content and trichomes with 294mg/g total cannabinoid content.

Ice Cream Cookies

Ice Cream Cookies offers a unique experience, starting with an invigorating cerebral sensation that gradually morphs into tranquilizing effects. It’s prized for its potency and is perfect for those cozy evenings.

To Sum It Up

THCA Flower is a versatile and potent alternative to traditional cannabis. Whether you’re seeking non-euphoric benefits or looking for a more elevated experience, THCA Flower can deliver.

While it’s true that THCA Flower can have psychoactive effects when heated or decarboxylated, remember that THCA Flower also provides benefits in its raw form. Whether you’re drawn to its non-euphoric benefits or its potent psychoactive effects, THCA Flower is a unique and versatile addition to any cannabis user’s arsenal.

The post Discovering THCA Flower appeared first on High Times.

Cannabis Consumption meets Concierge Service with an Affordable Home Delivery Bundle from HighHello

Did you roll out of bed in your PJs and do a happy dance this morning because buying and consuming cannabis no longer has a stigma to it? Yes? Well, we did too! Cannabis culture in the United States is booming due to legalization, and its benefits on mind, body, and spirit. What used to be a stigmatized (and illegal) activity, has become a way of life for many.

Everyone from anxiety-stricken young adults (over the age of 21 of course) and grandparents dealing with those achy joints are smoking, vaping, or ingesting cannabis in many different forms.

Cannabis Doesn’t Have to Make Your Head Spin

If you have walked into a dispensary lately, you might feel teleported back into the Wild Wild West. The options, devices, strains, and lingo can make cannabis users of every degree a little dizzy, and that’s before you even eat the first Edible. Tinctures, various strains, gummies, chocolate, and THC-infused liquid beverages. The options are endless and often confusing.

If you find yourself scratching your head and asking yourself, “where do I even start?!” Let us ease your weed-worried mind. With help from HighHello, exploring quality cannabis products that meet your needs has never been easier or more convenient. Their boxed bundle subscription is a fun, convenient, discreet, and affordable way to discover new products and get your buzz on.

High Quality at Preferred Prices

HighHello takes pride in delivering the highest quality flower, edibles, vapes, and more at preferred prices. But they really knock it out of the park with their personalized approach to the cannabis buying process. You don’t have to learn all the lingo. For the canna-curious and connaisseur alike, the HighHello Subscription Club makes it easy to discover quality products tailored to your tastes and needs.

Let’s Get Personal About Your Weed

But HighHello doesn’t stop at providing an attractively priced subscription box filled with cannabis delivered directly to your door. They provide next-level customer service with their private virtual budtender sessions. No need to get in your car, find a dispensary, or risk your less than on-board boss seeing you scamper in, just to wait in line to talk to a budtender about what you need while other people wait in line behind you, tapping their feet.

Once a month, members can schedule a meeting with a knowledgeable budtender to ask questions on anything from specific products to general industry knowledge. Or hey, you just need someone to talk to. Either way, your budtender canna-cares for you. And they want you to have a delightfully delicious cannabis experience. Simply sign up for a subscription, provide the necessary identification, and—with judgment-free help from one of HighHello’s qualified budtenders—choose from various monthly curated boxes. 

And This Is How It Works

It will be like Cannabis Christmas morning when you open your HighHello box each month. Based on the preferences you selected, some boxes contain various strains of cannabis. In contrast, others include edibles, concentrates, and other cannabis-infused products. Members can select their preferred box (smoke, vape, edibles, or a mix) and a delivery window that works for their consumption level.

Just 7 short days after becoming a HighHello member, anxiously waiting members receive their first box of carefully curated cannabis goodies. A new, fresh delivery arrives every 30 days after that. Regardless if you are new to cannabis or a seasoned pot-smoking hippie, club membership is a hassle-free way to stay current in the ever-evolving cannabis culture in which we live today. 

So, What’s Your Canna Preference?

The perks of membership include being in the know of the latest trends and innovations, discovering fun, new products, and connecting with a community of like-minded individuals. 

To meet the varying needs of HighHello members, there are several boxes to choose from, with more options on the way.

The Mixed Box: This option (Valued at $150+) contains seven curated cannabis products from various strains and consumption methods. Subscribers can expect two eighths of flower, two pre-rolls, two edibles, and one vape. This box retails for $100.

The Edible Box: Prefer to eat your weed instead of inhaling it? They have just the box for you. The Edibles Box (A $75 – $100+ value) contains six curated edible products monthly, from baked goods and snacks to gummies and cannabis-infused beverages, all according to members’ preferences. 

Flower Lovers: Flower lovers will be all lit up with the all-flower box. You guessed it, its all flower, all the time. So, if exploring different strains are your passion, this box is for you. 

All Concentrate: For the dabbers out there that believe wax is the way to go, this box will not disappoint. 

Beginners Box: Newbies to cannabis culture can relax with a box curated just for beginners. You get a mix of beginner-related products, and your budtender will also guide you along the way, answering any questions about the products in the newbie box. 

Want to Be a HighHello VIP?

The Bougie Box: We were not shocked when we heard our friends over at HighHello had this in the pipeline. Keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming “Bougie” Box—a premium product subscription—dropping soon.

Club membership is more than just a free monthly delivery. Members receive discounted access to cannabis events, exclusive product drops, behind-the-scenes content from industry-leading brands, and access to the HighHello Educational Library, aka the Green Room.

OMG, Becky, Look at That Pot!

HighHello researches the latest cannabis products, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy. Here’s a sample of some of the brands and types of products subscribers can expect to find in their monthly delivery:

1. Cheef Michigan Cookies (flower)

Photo courtesy of HighHello.

From the budtenders at HighHello: “These guys and gals pride themselves on growing clean cannabis, and clean cannabis it is. Aside from the obviously impressive signed 8th from music legend Todd Rundgren himself, the Michigan Cookies strain blew us away. Some beautiful buds [with some] some pine and sweetness in there. Great effects, powerful and relaxing.”

2. Glacier Cannabis Blast Chiller (pre-roll)

Photo courtesy of HighHello.

From the budtender: “Award-winning Glacier Cannabis produces all of their cannabis in small batches and strives to pair quality with affordability. The Blast Chiller strain is typically associated with relaxation and mid-level euphoria, with pine and mint making up the flavor and aroma profile.” What Glacier says: “Ideal for unwinding, Blast Chiller delivers a potent and relaxing smoke. Finish your day’s work and chill out with some grassy goodness.”

3. Potdots (edible)

Photo courtesy of HighHello.

From the budtender: “A literal delight of an edible. We are blessed to have this edible in Michigan. One MG THC per candy, so perfect for micro dosing or to snack away on. We loved carrying these around for a quick dose throughout the day and sharing with our canna-curious friends.”

4. Ryba’s Roots Mackinac Island THC Fudge (edible)

Photo courtesy of HighHello.

From the budtender: “Locally inspired products like these are a great way to enjoy some Michigan nostalgia in the new licensed cannabis market. Delicious, Michigan-made fudge infused with a completely manageable dose of 50mg of THC? It’s like a hug from your grandma. Some of the best execution we’ve seen in incorporating Michigan history into a great-tasting, high-quality product.”

5. Wynk Black Cherry Fizz (drink)

Photo courtesy of HighHello.

From the budtender: “Looking for a laid-back microdose option that hydrates? Or perhaps want to ‘drink’ along with your friends but looking to move away from alcohol? With a quick onset time, you can experience the effects at a similar rate to those consuming spirits alongside you. With a manageable and balanced 2.5mg THC and 2.5 CBD in each can, you can drink away without worrying about overconsumption.

For newcomers to the wide world of cannabis, it’s hard to beat HighHello’s all-in-one approach. And for the more experienced, HighHello’s cannabis subscription boxes offer a convenient, personalized, and truly unique way to find their favorite new products.

Let’s Take You Behind the Scenes

HighHello is revolutionizing cannabis culture. For starters, the team works directly with brands, visiting their facilities, testing product, and forging relationships with growers and processors to ensure that club members get access to top-quality products as soon as they’re available—all at preferred prices. 

As a member, you get exclusive access to new products, limited releases, and surprises from the HighHello network of partners. Education and community are essential elements of what HighHello does as well. Their mission is to ensure everyone can access the resources they need to engage with the cannabis community. Working with non-profits related to veterans, expungement, and advocacy is what HighHello’s culture is all about. 

Get started at gethighhello.com, and take advantage of the discount offer for first-time subscribers. Just look for the banner at the top of the homepage. And there are lots more to come: HighHello is adding an in-store pickup option soon and the opportunity to pick up one-time boxes without a subscription. Be on the lookout for the latest subscription options and perks, and join the HighHello community today!

The post Cannabis Consumption meets Concierge Service with an Affordable Home Delivery Bundle from HighHello appeared first on High Times.

Ben Cohen of Ben & Jerry’s Launches Non-Profit Cannabis Co. Focused on Criminal Justice Reform

Ben Cohen of Ben & Jerry’s announced BEN’S BEST BLNZ (B3)—a registered non-profit cannabis company with an entirely new approach—giving 100% of profits to Black entrepreneurs in the cannabis space and groups advocating for criminal justice reform. First this comes in the forms of blended pre-rolls, full-spectrum live resin vapes, and potent flower.

Fueled by a craving for justice over profits, it could be a winning approach: Eighty percent of profits from B3 will go towards Black cannabis entrepreneurs in the cannabis space. In addition, B3 established a low-interest loan fund for Black, Indigenous, and people of color cannabis entrepreneurs. 

Both the grant and loan programs will be delivered under a partnership with Oregon-based NuLeaf Project, a Black-led non-profit organization. The remaining 20% will be evenly divided between the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance and the Last Prisoner Project.

B3 offers craft cannabis with a bigger focus on terps and quality, as well as protest graphics-inspired design. To do this, B3 collaborated with Eddie Opara of the design firm Pentagram to collaborate closely with Cohen to design a brand identity framework and packaging for BEN’S BEST BLNZ, prominently highlighting Black artists and designers. The goal is to convey the company’s message of activism with typography inspired by protest graphics.

Illustration by Dana Robinson / Courtesy B3

“I started BEN’S BEST BLNZ because for me and lots of other people today’s pot is just way too strong,” Cohen tells High Times. “I mean when I was in college, the pot we were smoking was about 6% THC. Today’s pot averages about 23%. 

Cohen continues, “I’m an entrepreneur and saw an opportunity for a business to fill that void in the market. But I’m lucky enough not to need more money, so I decided to incorporate as a non-profit organization whose purpose is to help right the wrongs of the War on Drugs.” 

“Why am I in it?” Cohen asks, when we questioned what his motivations are if there are no profits. “There’s lots of people that are motivated by things other than money. Some of us are motivated by justice.”

Cohen launched Ben & Jerry’s ice cream in 1978 with Jerry Greenfield, first as a parlor. Over the years, the brand became involved with various advocacy efforts and introduced ice cream flavors based on Jerry Garcia, Colin Kaepernick, and Phish to name a few.

Today he’s still focused on advocacy. Despite using cannabis at the same rate, Black people have been arrested at four times the rate of white people, something BEN’S BEST BLNZ highlights on its website. Highlighting these injustices is a recurring theme that is manifested through the packaging typography and art.

BLNZ refers to the blends of several different strains in the company’s high-terpene, moderate-THC pre-rolls. That’s why you’ll also see a different focus on the qualities craft growers value over THC alone.

Courtesy B3

How B3 is Advocating for Justice

B3’s Board of Trustees includes President Jesce Horton, Secretary and Treasurer Dr. Darrick Hamilton, Killer Mike, Phil Agnew, and Nina Turner. They work with Cohen as Vice President and Irene Kim as Operations Manager.

“Black people have borne the brunt of America’s failed five-decade War on Drugs, being arrested at four times the rate of whites, despite marijuana use being roughly equal among both groups,” the BEN’S BEST BLNZ website reads. “As pot becomes legalized in more states, the fight to decarcerate Blacks with cannabis-related charges and to support the formation of legitimate businesses to cultivate and sell marijuana is just beginning.”

B3 advocates for “the decarceration of those convicted of nonviolent cannabis crimes and the descheduling of marijuana as a Schedule 1 substance.” As much as possible, B3 plans to prioritize work with Black-owned vendors and partners.

“The goal for the Ben’s Best graphics was to be honest and artful—to reflect the quality of our products and the social mission of our brand—to help Right the Wrongs of the War on Drugs which disproportionately affected Black people,” said Cohen on the company’s website. “The focus on this issue is something that a lot of other brands might mention, but virtually no other brand makes it so prominent. […]”

Courtesy B3

The Goods

Several items are slated for sales: B3 offers Blended SloSmokes with blended strains that are rich in terpenes and moderate amounts of THC. “It’s the terpenes that make the Music. THC is the volume,” the website reads. They’re available in 2-packs, 5-packs, all with five effects. You can get them at participating retailers.

B3 also offers terpene-focused, entourage-enhanced Full Spectrum Live Resin Vapes with five effects. They’re available in cartridges or pens using live resin extracted from freshly frozen whole plants.

B3’s more potent HiTest Buds are the more powerful strains, using the text on the packaging to advocate for getting weed off Schedule 1. They’re available in certain locations. Occasionally B3 will find a batch of high-THC bud that truly blows them away. When that happens we check in with their “Five Esteemed El Exigentes.” If they all agree that it’s fire, they can each give it a star to make five. They’re also soil-grown and have several other perks.

Learn more on the non-profit’s website.

The post Ben Cohen of Ben & Jerry’s Launches Non-Profit Cannabis Co. Focused on Criminal Justice Reform appeared first on High Times.

Jon’s Stone-Cold Cop List #35: New Jack City

It’s warming up. The days are getting longer. The seasonal depression is fading. Spring is here, let’s spread a lil’ sunshine, yes?

As we gear up for another season of events and seshes across the country, and prepare to ring in our favorite holiday with more places to legally celebrate than ever before, remember we’ve all got a lot to be thankful for. Things are far from perfect – abso-fucking-lutely – but we all know Rome wasn’t built in a day, and this Rome’s got weed. We can’t stop fighting for the things that matter, like getting people out of prison, fair pricing for medicine, access to quality products, the right to home grow, and less burdensome regulations all around, but we’re inching ever closer to a place most of us never thought we’d see. It ain’t all bad!

In that spirit, for 35 I tasked myself with coming up with a compilation of entirely new names for y’all. To my coverage that is. Of course none of these guys were born yesterday, so I don’t mean new as in entirely fresh on the shelf, just that I haven’t yet appropriately shone the light on them. A lot of these guys are plenty hyphy on their own, as their work all merited – I’m just keeping the good word movin’!

As always, let me know what you’re seeing that’s impressing you! Yeah you could hit me on Twitter, but I’ll be all over the place the next few months, from NYC for 4/20 to NorCal for Hall of Flowers & the Emerald Cup, with a ton of stops in between, so pull up on me in real life and let’s see what’s good! I’m even hearing rumors of a second Dank Tank in LA?! You’ll have to keep an eye on social to find out!

And with that, here comes the latest Cop List:

Relentless Melts

Courtesy Relentless Melts

So I’m not going to front on this one, I thought these guys were just running work. Y’all know I’m a flower guy, so while I tap in on the rosin boys, you know where my focus really goes. Well I didn’t realize they were cultivating it too, and let me tell you, seems like there’s far more than just a good washer here. I recently came upon a jar of their Puro Loco and not only does the smoke slap the hell out of you, but the flavor! The flavor is elite. The Loco is a Papaya x Moonbow #75 cut bred by Archive, who rarely misses on their own, but it’s clear the cultivation here is top notch. A new one to watch, for sure.

West Coast Alchemy

Photo by Jon Cappetta

I went through all my lists because I was pretty sure I’d written about these guys before, but it appears I haven’t, and that’s my bad, because they’ve been killing it. While I’m sure a lot of the real heads are rolling their eyes right now, there are plenty of gentiles out there who are yet to see the light, and I’m holding the torch, so for all you out there looking to throw something world class on your new slurper, this is the one. WCA has delivered the single best tasting Z rosin I’ve ever consumed in my life – straight from the Hogz – but they’re always rocking a full portfolio of flavors – from the candy & gas the market loves, to the fruits to start your morning with, so there’s truly something for everybody on their roster. That said, good luck getting a jar, as these guys are cult-followed, and product never stays in stock long.

Lyfe Sauce

Courtesy Lyfe Sauce

Lyfe Sauce is a totally new name for me, but it’s one I’m definitely going to keep my eye one since seeing their last crop. I checked out their cookies & cream (which I’m never usually a fan of) and their purple milk and boy were those flavonoids packed in. The milk has this nose that reminds me of some solventless I saw years ago called ‘Bugatti’ that I haven’t seen since, and I’m more than hyped to have this profile back in my rotation. In fact I catch myself going to the fridge throughout the day just to huff on the jar…

Black Hippy Farms

Courtesy Black Hippy Farms

I’ve been hearing from the Black Hippy crew up north for a few years now, so when we finally got to tap in earlier this year I was proud to see the gang didn’t only talk the talk, but kicked it like the best of ‘em. I talk a lot about how important flavor is, and while it’s often hard to tell from the look and smell of a bud just how well the taste will hold up, it was like these buds were dripping with terps. I’m talking about a full palate stainer.

MOCA

Courtesy MOCA

Here’s another one I’ve kind of sideline watched for the past however long: Modern Cannabis. They’ve got a few homies I know from the event circuit working over there, but having recently tried their Z for the first time, it’s time the rest of you hear about what they’re doing too. A product of Humboldt, but grown indoors (and in soil, too!), MOCA’s Z was packed with terps, providing some of the tastiest smoke I’ve seen from this varietal in flower in a long while – and y’all know I like my Z. They brand themselves as small batch, hand watered & trimmed, and it comes across in the final product. These nugs were clearly pumped with love.

Crystal Farms

Courtesy Crystal Farms

Another name I was shocked I haven’t raved about before is the Crystal Farms Collective. These guys have been pushing the White Truffle for awhile now, and this is the first iteration of this cultivar that I really connected with. I think it’s probably because I heard so many people raving about this one that I set this bar too high in my head, so the first few fools who brought it over I was like ‘it’s whatever’, but Crystal’s? Now that’s some real shit. There’s a true downer lean on this hybrid, and you’ll feel it in your soul.

Watson Supply Co

Courtesy Watson Supply Co

My homies at Chaliques told me I had to keep an eye on these guys, and it’s a good thing, because I’m glad I caught their new cultivar Cold Heat. Not only have these guys crushed the marketing with a World Industries type vibe, but the flower actually smacks. I don’t know how else to explain the taste besides calling it a musky gas, but this is the perfect ‘I need to zone the fuck out rn’ tool. I’m digging through Emerald Cup entries right now and yet this is the thing I find myself continuing to want to smoke – and you know what that means for a flavor chaser!

Natty Labs

Photo by Jon Cappetta

Wow more rosin on the same list, who are you? I know, I’m surprising myself here, but this is another bucket that I can’t stop scooping from. Thankfully Puffco’s latest Wizard product arrived last week and I’ve been walking around my apartment rotating between this Papaya and the Lyfe Sauce I mentioned earlier. There’s something special about the smell of this one that you get low key addicted to, like a good perfume that has that super funk on the back. I would lather this on myself for aroma if it wasn’t a waste of terps.

Diamond Fire

Courtesy Diamond Fire

Here’s another dude I’ve been talking to online for awhile that pulled up with some work y’all should know about. Diamond Fire’s been trying to play the legal game for awhile, but he never gave up his roots – and it’s a good thing, since the market’s such a mess right now. Homie brought over some real deal herbs that not only looked and smelled like something you’d see in our centerfold, but it was packing the pressure we need to not just smoke good, but feel good too. Considering the size of his batches you’d think he’d be way custier on the price, but this is a true for-the-people cultivator. If you appreciate quality, you’ll want to tap in.

Shaun Cron

Courtesy Shaun Cron

This is another guy I’ve been watching for awhile and is past due on some shine. Shaun’s been in the Zalympix competitions, he’s been cultivating heat down in San Diego, but when we linked last he showed me some of his new gas and man, this is honestly the most rank diesel smelling aroma I’ve seen in YEARS. And it translates, too! For those of you out there who are always asking ‘Where’s the gas?’, this is an answer I’m absolutely sure you’ll appreciate. This shit’s going to have you feeling like you’re floating in zero gravity for real!

The post Jon’s Stone-Cold Cop List #35: New Jack City appeared first on High Times.

Announcing the High Times Cannabis Cup New Mexico: People’s Choice Edition 2023

What has a plentiful landscape of natural beauty, is famous for hatch green chiles, is the birthplace of Neil Patrick Harris, is the current residence to author George R.R. Martin (seriously, he has a day held in his honor annually on March 29), has a multitude of culture, and is also home to a bustling cannabis scene? We are proud to announce that we’ll be expanding our popular cannabis competition to New Mexico for the very first time! Welcome to the High Times Cannabis Cup New Mexico: People’s Choice Edition 2023.

New Mexico adult-use cannabis sales launched on April 1, 2022. On that day alone, consumers swarmed nearby dispensaries with a huge $3 million in sales during its first weekend and has kept a steady rise in sales ever since. Nearly one year later, the industry is thriving, and we know you’re ready to dive into some of the state’s best products.

For New Mexican consumers, here’s the deal: you have the power! Pick up one of our judge kits from our retail partners at Pecos Valley Productions (more to be announced soon) starting on June 17 through Aug. 20. We have 11 categories available for this cup:

Entry Categories:

  1. Indica Flower (2 entries max per company)
  2. Sativa Flower (2 entries max per company)  
  3. Hybrid Flower (2 entries max per company) 
  4. Pre-Rolls (2 entries max per company) 
  5. Infused Pre-Rolls (1 entry max per company) 
  6. Solvent Concentrates (2 entries max per company) 
  7. Non-Solvent Concentrates (2 entries max per company) 
  8. Vape Pens & Cartridges (2 entries max per company) (category may split) 
  9. Edibles: Gummies & Fruit Chews (2 entries max per company)
  10. Edibles: Chocolates & Non-Gummies (2 entries max per company)
  11. Sublinguals, Capsules, Tinctures + Topicals (3 entries max per company)

After you pick up your judge kit, log in to our online judge’s portal and let your comments be known. Depending on the category, judges are invited to carefully analyze their products with numerous criteria in mind. The aesthetics of a product and its packaging, aroma/scent, taste/flavor profile, and effects/effectiveness are just a few things we ask judges to consider. Depending on each product’s overall scores, we calculate which ones were most praised by judges, and will announce winners via a digital awards show on Sept. 3.

The goal of our People’s Choice Edition competition is to help put the spotlight and some of the most unique and one-of-a-kind products throughout the state. For those who want to enter the competition, you can submit your products to our intake partner, Pecos Valley Productions, between June 5-7. There are some rules for entry though, so please review the following information carefully:

Entry Requirements:

  • Flower: (228) 1-gram samples. We will not accept any 3.5-gram entries.
  • Pre-Rolls & Infused Pre-Rolls: (228) samples: Pre-Rolls will be capped at 2g flower-only each; Infused Pre-Rolls will be capped at 3g flower equivalency or 1g concentrate equivalency each.
  • Concentrates & Vape Pens: (228) .5-gram samples. We will not accept any 1-gram entries. Batteries required for carts.
  • Edibles: (100) samples with 50mg THC max.
  • Sublinguals, Capsules, Tinctures + Topicals: (60) samples with 100mg THC max.

The price for one entry is set at $250, which is non-refundable. Two entries are marked at $100 each, also non-refundable. However, if you submit three or more entries, each entry is $100 and it is a refundable deposit per entry held. You can get refunded when all entries are successfully submitted, and those fees are waived if you choose to become a sponsor of our event.

As a reminder for competitors, email competition@hightimes.com ASAP for information on how to compete, and for judges, please visit cannabiscup.com/preregister to sign up for updates on how to be a judge.

A special thank you to our partners and sponsors!

Official Intake Partner: Pecos Valley Production

Powered by: Fusion Promotions

The post Announcing the High Times Cannabis Cup New Mexico: People’s Choice Edition 2023 appeared first on High Times.

Announcing the High Times Cannabis Cup SoCal: People’s Choice Edition 2023

Earlier this month, we announced the launch of the High Times Cannabis Cup People’s Edition in Michigan, but now we’re hyping up the West Coast for the return of its own People’s Choice Awards! Welcome to the High Times Cannabis Cup SoCal: People’s Choice Edition 2023, a recreational-only competition celebrating some of the best cannabis products in the region.

The SoCal Cannabis Cup was first introduced in 2015, where it thrived as an in-person event between 2015-2019. Back in 2015, strains like Flower Bomb Kush, True OG, and Amnesia Haze were the cream of the crop, and categories like “Best Booth” and “Best Glass” were still commonplace. The pandemic may have put a halt to in-person events, but the People’s Choice has taken the nation by storm, with a People’s Choice competition held for SoCal in both 2020 (with winners announced in 2021) and 2022. In 2021, huge favorites like Biscotti, Gelonade, and Lemon Sponge Cake took first place, among a varied selection of pre-rolls, edibles, and more. Our 2022 SoCal: People’s Choice Edition was one of the biggest cups so far, with winners such as Top Shelf Cultivation’s Whoa Si Whoa, Sense’s Pink Certz Flower, Wizard Trees’s Studio 54, and Team Elite Genetics’s Pearadise Flower—just a few of the amazing strains that won over our judges.

Fast forward to this year’s High Times Cannabis Cup SoCal: People’s Choice Edition 2023, and we’re expecting another exciting collection of products to experience. With that in mind, here’s the schedule for this year: Product submissions will be dropped off at the Moxie Lynwood facility between May 8-10. Then our official intake partner, Moxie, will build the judge kits and then we’ll transport the kits to all participating High Times and Have a Heart retailers. On May 20, judge kits will officially go on sale! Judges will have between May 21 to July 10 to test out their goodies, submitting their thoughts on product differentiators such as aesthetics, aroma/scent, taste/flavor, effects/effectiveness, and so much more.

According to High Times Director of Competitions Mark Kaz, 2021 was a record-breaking year in terms of participation. “Twenty-one Cups, 339 brands, 1,389 batches of entries, all judged by about 15,000 judges who helped crown 249 award-winners for best products in their state,” Kaz said. “Our industry is going through a tough recession, restrictive regulations, and plenty of other woes, but one thing that’s for certain is that people want to find out who has the best weed, and we’re here to help.”

For companies who want to submit products for this year’s competition, please refer to the following rules.

Entry Categories:

  1. Indica Flower (2 entries max per company) 
  2. Sativa Flower (2 entries max per company)  
  3. Hybrid Flower (2 entries max per company) 
  4. Pre-Rolls (2 entries max per company) 
  5. Infused Pre-Rolls (1 entry max per company) 
  6. Solvent Concentrates (2 entries max per company) 
  7. Non-Solvent Concentrates (2 entries max per company) 
  8. Vape Pens & Cartridges (2 entries max per company)
  9. Edibles: Gummies & Fruit Chews (3 entries max per company)
  10. Edibles: Chocolates & Non-Gummies (3 entries max per company)
  11. Edibles: Beverages (2 entries max per company)
  12. Sublinguals, Capsules, Tinctures + Topicals (3 entries max per company)

Entry Requirements:

  • Flower: (228) 1-gram samples. We will not accept any 3.5-gram entries. 
  • Pre-Rolls & Infused Pre-Rolls: (228) samples: Pre-Rolls will be capped at 2g flower-only each; Infused Pre-Rolls will be capped at 3g flower equivalency or 1g concentrate equivalency each.
  • Concentrates & Vape Pens: (228) .5-gram samples. We will not accept any 1-gram entries. Batteries required for Carts.
  • Edibles: (100) samples with 100mg THC max.
  • Beverages: must be a max of 16 fluid ounces, non-glass containers preferred. 
  • Sublinguals, Capsules, Tinctures + Topicals: (60) samples with 500mg THC max

In terms of submission pricing, competitors should note the entry fees depending on how many products they submit. While one entry is $250, and two entries is $100 per entry (both non-refundable), submissions of three or more entries is a $100 refundable deposit per entry held, which is refunded when all entries are successfully submitted. Finally, if you’d like to sponsor this year’s High Times Cannabis Cup SoCal: People’s Choice Edition 2023 then all entry fees are waived. We also offer multiple tiers of sponsorship, including General, Bronze, Silver, and Presenting Sponsorships.

That sums up the details of our event this year but check out our High Times Cannabis Cup website to view all of the details.

A special thank you to:

Moxie – Official Intake Partner

Have a Heart – Official Retailer Partner

High Times Dispensaries – Official Retailer Partner

The post Announcing the High Times Cannabis Cup SoCal: People’s Choice Edition 2023 appeared first on High Times.

What is THCA Flower? Is It Legal?

THCA is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in both marijuana and hemp, being the dominant compound in the marijuana plant, and existing in more trace levels in hemp. THCA flower is fast becoming a highly in-demand product on the hemp market, offering a legal way to enjoy a delta-9 THC high, because THCA, which stands for “tetrahydrocannabinolic acid,” is just the raw form of THC that converts into delta-9 once it’s heated – like through smoking, vaping, or cooking.

Still, as we all know, not all THCA flower is made equally. The bottom line is that some products are simply superior to others, in terms of things like freshness, strain selection, and effectiveness. Let’s talk about where to buy the best THCA flower that the market has to offer. In fact, you can try THCA flower for yourself using the code HIGHTIMES25 for 25% off with fast & free shipping from Bloomz. 

Can You Buy THCA Flower In Person?

The first choice you need to make when deciding where to buy your THCA flower is whether you want to buy it in person or online. Let’s talk about what type of shopping experience you’re in for if you choose to go the local, in-person route:

  • Smaller variety of products due to limited storage
  • Higher costs on flower to make up for overhead costs
  • Low freshness level due to low local demand, leading to products sitting on the shelves for a long time
  • Higher risk of ending up with fakes due to businesses that don’t specialize in hemp not knowing any better
  • Having to find a store that even sells THCA flower in your local area

But, if you do want to go the in-person route, you’re likely going to be able to choose from 2 different types of retailers:

  • Gas Stations/Convenience Stores: We really don’t recommend getting your flower here. These businesses are not about selling you the highest-quality products possible. And, since those who manage these types of businesses likely aren’t educated hemp experts, they themselves won’t even know if they’re carrying quality flower or not.
  • Vape Shops: By going with local vape shops, you have a slightly better of a chance of finding a good-quality product. But, don’t assume. Not all vape shop owners are well-versed in hemp-related matters. And, don’t assume all vape shops carry THCA flower, either.

At the end of the day, you should strictly avoid THCA flower being sold through an unlicensed party, like a vendor at a local pop-up market, or some stranger on Craigslist or Instagram that is offering to meet you in person, outside of a licensed business environment.

Courtesy Binoid

Why It’s Best To Buy Your THCA Flower Online 

Basically, any serious hemp enthusiast will tell you that buying your flower from a trusted online hemp retailer is the best option. Here are the things you can look forward to when choosing to grab your THCA flower from a reputable online retailer, like Bloomz, that specializes in all things hemp.

Maximum Convenience 

Of course, no one will have a problem with the convenience of not having to leave home in order to buy THCA flower. Buying it online makes your life a whole lot easier, since you can just check out your cart and wait for the flower to arrive to you within a few days. Luckily, Bloomz Hemp even offers fast, free shipping and an easy to use website making the experience even easier and way more convenient for you.

Better Freshness Guarantee

Online retailers have a lot more visibility than local stores, as they get a lot of traffic due to worldwide exposure. As a result, online businesses typically have a very high product turnover rate, so that flower never sits on the shelves for long. Because of that, online THCA flower is usually sold extremely fresh, full of potent compounds and flavorful terpenes. Bloomz is known for having amazing prices on their THCA Flower as the quality is top notch and bulk prices are amazing.

More Affordable Prices

Because online stores don’t have such high overhead costs, they can offer you THCA flower at a much more affordable price. Many of them also offer free shipping, so you can really save. And, don’t forget that online businesses typically offer bulk-purchase options, like bundles, and hold deals and sales frequently, which is something you almost definitely won’t see in person. Bloomz is known for having amazing prices on their THCA Flower as the quality is top notch and bulk prices are amazing.

Quality Standards are Higher

With local stores, quality standards can leave a lot to be desired, as low local demand means fewer discerning consumers. Online retailers know that they’re extremely visible, and so they really need to go above and beyond to carry only the best of the best. Not only that, but the online hemp market is far more competitive, so companies just really can’t get away with carrying low-quality products. Bloomz Hemp has high product turnover that is made seasonally to guarantee fresh and potent products.

THCA
Courtesy Binoid

More THCA Flower Products to Choose from 

Online stores usually have a lot more storage space to carry products, than, say, a gas station that can only carry a couple of hemp flower products on their crowded shelves. What this means is that you can find a lot more options when it comes to THCA flower, like a wider variety of strain choices and so on. Bloomz Hemp has bulk sizing, and many different strains of THCA flower that you will love and enjoy, easily having the largest selection of THCA flower on the market.

You Can Learn A Lot More About THCA Flower And The Company 

Another thing about choosing an online retailer is that you can learn a lot more about how that company makes their flower, and the unique standards and practices of the company you’re buying from. It’s always nice to find out where the flower was actually grown, how the THCA distillate was made and other little details that can ultimately tell you a lot about the quality of what you’re getting. Bloomz values transparency when it comes to their flower, making user reviews and product information readily available on their website to keep you informed.

Not All THCA Flower is Made Equally, So Choose Wisely By Going With Bloomz

At the end of the day, you’re far more likely to feel satisfied with your THCA flower by choosing a trusted online hemp retailer, where you’ll be more confident that you’re getting a fresh, effective, and clean product.  

At Bloomz, you can treat yourself to some of the highest-quality, top-shelf THCA flower on the market, infused with ultra-pure THCA distillate, available in a fantastic selection of strains, and always sold as fresh as can be.  Available in a few rare and sought-after strains, like Grape Frosty, Han Solo, Mac, Platinum OG and more! Bloomz THCA Flower covers all of your bases with a cultivar for every need.  

Meanwhile, you will be able to choose from a variety of sizes, while knowing that you’re getting unbeatable effectiveness and quality thanks to the freshness of the product, paired with the purity of the brand’s unique THCA distillate. Explore Bloomz THCA flower today with 25% off using the code HIGHTIMES25, and enjoy being treated to some of the best prices and quality around!

THCA
Courtesy Binoid

The post What is THCA Flower? Is It Legal? appeared first on High Times.

Product Review: The New Volcano Hybrid is Slick as Hell

Full disclosure: I loathe vaping cannabis flower. I find it to be a weak and cruel suggestion and I simply prefer bong rips or dabs which skip all the bullshit and force you into a death grip of buttery happiness as soon as it hits your lungs. That said, the Volcano Hybrid has genuinely made me reconsider this. It brings the science and tech of dabbing to smoking bud and makes more efficient use of your flower than a lighter would. Allow me to enlighten thee, good stoners of the world.

The classic Volcano has been around since 2000 and people still rave about it to this day. I have admittedly never used one because anytime I have $400 to spare I usually blow it on hash within minutes. I’ve long admired the way the bag system works and always meant to try one but it just never came up. I’ve tried about 100 other various flower vaporizers and hated every single one of them. They all tasted like burnt ass popcorn and I never felt like I was getting high enough.

When the Volcano Hybrid arrived at my house I wanted to leave my reaction completely up to science so I bought two eighths: one was super midsy on purpose and the other was some of the new Bad Apple from Connected (the single best eighth in the dispensary that day). I bought those two specific eighths so I could approach this from the perspectives and palettes of both an average consumer and myself.

Unpacking the Volcano Hybrid was a bit overwhelming. There’s a lot of tubes, bags and different attachments that can be confusing if you don’t read the instructions so definitely read the little quick start manual that comes with it before using.

Courtesy of Storz & Bickel

There’s essentially two ways to use it: the classic method of filling up a pre-made bag with vapor and then inhaling from the mouthpiece attached to the bag, or you can attach a tube directly to the unit itself and inhale as you please. I tried the Bad Apple using the bag first and it took a few tries to get it right but it was a super clean and relatively flavorful hit compared to other flower vaporizers I’ve tried. In my opinion, the same flower still tasted better out of a clean bong but it actually got me higher out of the Volcano because it made more efficient use of the flower than I imagine a lighter would have. I also tend to only hit a bowl once because after the lighter touches the flower, anything remaining usually tastes charred after the first hit but each hit out of the Volcano bag had a consistent, smooth flavor.

I wanted to try two distinctly different qualities of weed because in the past, all flower tasted the exact same out of any flower vaporizer I’ve tried. To my absolute delight, not only did the good flower taste significantly better than the lower quality flower, but the midsy stuff smoked much more smoothly for me than it would have out of a pipe or a bong. I truly cannot stand to smoke mid and it was very tolerable in the Volcano Hybrid. That alone should be a testament to its effectiveness.

It’s also worth noting that I caught a bit of a cold the day after the Volcano arrived so it was very nice to have a smoking option around the house that was easier on my throat. Ultimately, I still needed a couple dabs to get where I wanted to be but my throat was appreciative nonetheless because normally I dab like a loon from sunup to sundown.

volcano
Courtesy of Storz & Bickel

Now let’s get to the features. I compared the Volcano Hybrid to dabbing because you can choose your own experience every single time. When I’m dabbing in the morning I let my nail cool down for 82 seconds exactly but later in the afternoon when I want to get punched in the face a little bit I hit it at 75 seconds or so. The Volcano Hybrid gets me extremely wet in this regard because it has an app that lets you fully automate and customize your smoking experience with regard to temperature and air. I can set it to heat up my flower for two minutes at 190 degrees Celcius, blow air and vapor into the bag for five seconds, then heat up an additional five degrees, then blow air for ten seconds and so on. The possibilities are truly endless. The app is only available for Android at the moment but there’s a web browser version for iPhone users.

I didn’t notice much of a difference using the tube versus the bags so I mostly stuck to using the bags because frankly, it looks cool as hell. But it is nice to have the tube option when you just want to lay in bed in the morning and get super high without moving at all or waking up sleeping people with the noise from the bag.

volcano
Courtesy of Storz & Bickel

Now comes the big question of “Is it worth the money?”

Well, it retails for about $699 and I would argue that even though I personally would not spend that money on it, I advocate that others should and here’s why:

I’m a writer and writers aren’t typically swimming in disposable income, for one. But in all seriousness I just don’t care about flower much in the first place and I have an extremely high tolerance that does not beget the smoother, less aggressive experience you get with the Volcano Hybrid compared to more traditional methods of smoking. 

However, I am not most people. The overwhelming majority of consumers I talk to just want to get high without losing a lung, not to mention the extremely high number of medical cannabis patients that need to consume weed but can’t smoke it without risking lung infection or something equally as ghastly. The Volcano Hybrid is worth the money for those people. It’s the ultimate experience for people who value the cilia lining their throat cavity and want to use cannabis with minimal damage to their body. 

I’d suggest patience with this machine because flower vaporization is not instant and if you want it to taste good, “low and slow” is your new motto. Let it cook for a few minutes longer at a cooler temp rather than speed up your hit by five minutes. With midsy stuff that rule goes double because it already tastes bad, you don’t need to make it taste worse. 

Another tip I have is to spend the time to figure out what temperature your flower will burn best at because I promise you it will vary from strain to strain and even from microclimate to microclimate so any temperature or time suggestions I have won’t be super helpful. 190 degrees Celcius is the recommended max temp but if you don’t care as much about flavor you can ramp that up to about 206 and get a solid bagful within two or three minutes without sacrificing too much flavor.

Overall, this thing is super slick and worth the extra money over the Volcano Classic in my opinion. It won’t be a daily driver for me because I’m a hash head at heart, but this thing will definitely be getting a lot of use in my house. 

Courtesy of Storz & Bickel

The post Product Review: The New Volcano Hybrid is Slick as Hell appeared first on High Times.