Vape cartridges, also known as vape pens or carts, have quickly become one of the most popular ways to consume cannabis. These small, disposable devices offer a convenient, discreet and customizable experience.
If you’re new to vaping cannabis, this beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing your first cartridge to troubleshooting any issues that arise.
What Exactly Are Cannabis Vape Cartridges?
A cannabis vape cartridge is a small, pre-filled glass tank that contains extracted cannabis oil. Cartridges screw onto compatible batteries that power an internal heating element. When activated, this element gently heats the oil into an inhalable vapor.
Cartridges come in 0.5 gram, 1 gram and 2 gram sizes, with 1 gram being the most common. The larger the cartridge, the more milligrams of cannabinoids it will contain. Potency can range anywhere from 70% THC to over 90% for the strongest options.
Cartridges can contain oils made from either marijuana or hemp-derived extracts. Popular options include THC, CBD, CBN, delta 8 THC, delta 10 THC, HHC and various blends. The type you choose will determine the effects you experience.
Why Vape Cartridges Are So Popular
- Convenience: Simple, no mess or prep required. Just attach and inhale.
- Selection: Wide variety of strain and cannabinoid options to choose from.
- Consistent Dosing: Pree-filled amounts allow you to monitor consumption.
- Discreet: Vapor doesn’t linger or smell strongly like smoke. Easy to conceal and use discreetly.
- Comfortable Usage: Gentle heating makes for smooth, enjoyable inhalation.
- Potency: Oil extracts allow for highly concentrated cannabinoid levels in a small package.
Choosing Your First Cannabis Vape Cartridge
Consider the sensation and effects you desire from the product: uplifting, relaxing, focused, sleepy, etc. Then select a cartridge with terpenes and cannabinoids that align with those needs. Sativas for energy, indicas to unwind, blends for a bit of both.
Only purchase cartridges from licensed dispensaries you trust. Avoid black market or counterfeit products that may contain dangerous additives. Legitimate cartridges from reputable brands should have the following:
- Clear, golden oil with few bubbles
- Lab test results showing potency and purity
- No burnt tastes or smells when used
- Proper manufacturer and dispensary labeling
How to Use a Cannabis Vape Cartridge
Follow these simple steps for smooth vape sessions:
- Fully charge your reusable 510-thread battery if needed. Or use a disposable all-in-one vape pen.
- Gently screw cartridge into battery until snug (don’t over tighten).
- Click battery button 5 times to turn on and activate heating element.
- Put lips to mouthpiece and inhale slowly for 5 seconds while holding button.
- Exhale vapor. Wait 5+ minutes to judge effects before taking another puff.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Start with the low temp setting and work up from there. Preserves oil quality and flavor.
- Take small, gentle puffs. Huge rips can overload cartridges and aren’t necessary.
- When nearly empty, a cartridge can produce hotter, harsher hits. Add drops of distillate to refresh.
- Store cartridges upright in cool, dry, dark places to maintain potency and fluidity.
Avoid Problems Like Clogs and Burnt Tastes
Gentle heating prevents issues. But if clogs or burnt tastes occur:
For clogs:
- Double click battery button to activate warming function for 15 seconds.
- Draw air through (don’t inhale) to clear blockage.
- If needed, use toothpick to clear mouthpiece.
For burnt cartridges:
- Make sure battery isn’t overheating material.
- Add distillate oil to refresh overly thick oil.
The Future of Cannabis Consumption
With exceptional convenience and selection, it’s no wonder vape cartridges are dominating the cannabis landscape. As technology continues improving these devices, expect their popularity to keep climbing.
Conclude
Vape cartridges offer a convenient, customizable way to consume cannabis that’s only growing in popularity. By following the tips in this beginner’s guide on how to properly use cannabis cartridges and batteries, you’ll be prepared to enhance your vaping sessions. Start low and slow with gentler puffs, store cartridges properly, and avoid overheating. If you have any other questions on getting the most out of your vape carts that weren’t covered here, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
FAQs
How do you use a cart pen?
To use a cart pen, first fully charge your 510-thread battery if needed or use a disposable all-in-one vape pen. Gently screw the cartridge into the battery until it’s snug – don’t overtighten. Click the battery button 5 times to turn on the device and activate heating. Put your lips on the mouthpiece and inhale slowly for about 5 seconds while holding the button down. Exhale the vapor. Wait at least 5 minutes before inhaling again to judge the effects.
How do you use a cart effectively?
To use a cartridge most effectively:
- Start on the low temp setting and gradually increase to find your sweet spot
- Take small, gentle puffs instead of huge rips
- Store cartridges upright in a cool, dry, dark place to maintain quality
- When nearly empty, add a few drops of distillate oil to refresh thickened oil
- Avoid overheating and only recharge battery when needed to preserve lifespan
How many hits are in a cart?
The number of hits in a cannabis oil cartridge depends on the size. A typical breakdown is:
- 0.5 gram cartridge: 100-150 hits
- 1 gram cartridge: 200-300 hits
- 2 gram cartridge: 500-600 hits
The oil viscosity, battery voltage, and length/intensity of draws also impact the total number of puffs.
How many times should I hit my cart?
There is no universal rule for how many hits to take per vape session. It depends on your individual tolerance and the cartridge potency. For beginners, take 1-2 hits and wait 10+ minutes to judge the effects before continuing. More experienced consumers may start with 2-4 hits. Pace yourself and consume responsibly. Also, take smaller hits rather than deep rips for smoother experiences.
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