As an everyday cannabis user, I typically smoke. I love the taste, smell, feel, and ritual of burning cannabis. But there are many times and places when having a flower vaporizer is very beneficial. Whether I just want to give my lungs a rest or maybe sneak something into a theater, flower vaporizers have existed in my arsenal since I was introduced to them.
Since we specialize in preserving the plant at harvest, we capture the terpenes when they’re in full production. Experiencing Live Cured Flower through a vaporizer is next level. After trying our Live Cured Flower through a Volcano Vaporizer, it made me want to learn more about the different methods of vaporization and all the crazy devices out there. Before then I treated vaping more like a gimmick.
Unlike traditional methods of cannabis consumption, such as smoking, a flower vaporizer heats the material to a temperature that releases the cannabinoids and terpenes, in the form of vapor without burning the plant material. Once you hit 450 F the cannabis will start to combust. Take a look at this chart to see what the boiling points of certain cannabinoids and terpenes are before you start.
You can see from the chart that the process of vaporization occurs at lower temperatures compared to combustion. This lower temperature results in a more controlled and efficient release of cannabinoids and terpenes, reducing the production of harmful byproducts associated with combustion. Having a flower vaporizer allows for more precise temperature control, enabling you to customize sessions based on the specific compounds you want to target. Different cannabinoids and terpenes obviously have varying boiling points, and by adjusting the temperature, you can optimize your experience and achieve the desired effects.
Flower vaporizers offer several advantages over traditional smoking methods. Vaporizing cannabis can provide a smoother and cleaner experience, as it eliminates the inhalation of smoke and reduces the potential for respiratory irritation. Additionally, vaporization can enhance the flavors and aromas of the cannabis, allowing users to experience the full spectrum of terpenes present in the plant. This is especially so when consuming Live Cured Flower.
Flower vaporizers work on the principle of either conduction or convection heating. Conduction vaporizers use direct contact between the heating element and the cannabis to transfer heat and vaporize the cannabinoids and terpenes. Convection vaporizers, on the other hand, use heated air that passes through the cannabis, vaporizing the compounds without direct contact with the heating element.
Two of my favorite flower vaporizers are the PAX and the Volcano. One is convection and the other is conduction. Here are my thoughts on the two…
THE VOLCANO
The Volcano, produced by Storz and Bickel, is an extremely popular and high-quality device used for vaporizing both dry cannabis and concentrates. It’s known for its exceptional performance, efficiency, and precise temperature control, making it one of my favorites. The Volcano is a convection vaporizer, so it blows hot air through the cannabis to produce its vapor.
The Volcano consists of two main components: the heating unit and the valve system. The heating unit is a durable stainless-steel device that houses the heating element and temperature controls. It is designed to heat the air to the desired temperature for vaporization. It’s shaped like a metal cone or volcano.
The valve system is where the user attaches a specially designed bag that collects the vapor. The valve system ensures that the vapor remains trapped in the bag until the user is ready to inhale. This allows for a smooth and controlled vaping experience.
To use the Volcano, you first grind your cannabis and load it into the chamber. The heating unit is then turned on, and the desired temperature is set using the temperature controls. The device typically offers a range of temperature options to suit different preferences and materials.
Once the unit reaches the desired temperature, the user attaches the valve system to the heating unit. The bag is placed on the valve, and the vaporizer fan is activated. The hot air generated by the heating unit fills the balloon, gradually vaporizing the cannabis or concentrates and filling the bag with flavorful and potent vapor.
The bag is then detached from the valve system once it’s filled, and then you’re able to inhale from the bag at your own pace. The vapor produced by the Volcano is often praised for its purity and smoothness due to the precise temperature control and convection heating method.
The Volcano is known for its robust construction and reliable performance, making it a long-lasting investment for those of you who enjoy vaporizing. It’s often considered a top-tier vaporizer due to its exceptional vapor quality and ease of use, so expect to pay $500-$700 depending on what model you go with. This is a device for someone who seriously enjoys vaping and isn’t afraid to make a huge investment.
The Volcano is a highly regarded device that offers a premium vaping experience, combining efficiency, durability, and excellent vapor production. I find it to be one of the most superior vaporizers on the market.
PAX
The PAX is a sleek and compact portable vaporizer designed for vaporizing both cannabis and concentrates. It’s widely recognized for its elegant design, ease of use, and impressive vapor production.
The PAX has a minimalist and modern appearance. It’s typically made of anodized aluminum, giving it a durable and premium feel. The device is available in different colors and finishes, allowing users to choose their preferred aesthetic.
One of the standout features of the PAX is its simplicity. It has a single button located on the mouthpiece end, which serves as both the power button and temperature control. Pressing the button turns the device on and off, and holding it down allows you to cycle through different temperature settings.
The temperature settings on the PAX are pre-set, offering a range of options to suit various preferences and materials. The device utilizes conduction heating, which means that the cannabis or concentrates come into direct contact with the heating element to produce vapor. I was skeptical about this at first but now don’t even question its abilities.
To use the PAX, you need to remove the magnetic lid located at the base of the device. This reveals the heating chamber, where you load your ground cannabis. The chamber has a decent capacity, allowing for multiple sessions without constant refilling.
After loading the chamber, you simply replace the lid and press the power button to start heating the device. The PAX typically heats up within seconds, and the LED indicator light on the device shows the current temperature status.
Once the desired temperature is reached, you can start inhaling from the mouthpiece. The vapor produced by the PAX is known for its smoothness and flavor, thanks to the even heat distribution and optimized airflow.
The PAX has gained popularity among vaping enthusiasts for its discreet and portable nature. It easily fits in your pocket or bag, making it suitable for on-the-go use. Additionally, it offers a user-friendly experience with its intuitive controls and consistent vapor quality. Priced lower than the Volcano at $120-$200 depending on the model.
Overall, the PAX is a well-regarded portable vaporizer that combines stylish design, ease of use, and excellent vapor production. Its compact size and impressive performance makes it one of my favorites.
Volcano’s are a great choice for the vaping enthusiast looking for something next level, and the PAX is a great portable option suitable for beginners.
I enjoy both of these devices and highly recommend you trying them.
Stay stoned and stay safe!
