Take your herb to new heights and varying heats to really appreciate the trip that is life.

Why Vapes Are the Social Stoner’s Best Friend

One word: accessibility. Gone are the days of ritualistic smoking or the need to have your glass set up just so, or locating that pesky lighter. Dry herb vapes provide everything you could need for an easy access high, and DankGeek has products specific for every stoners personal preference– including those who prefer subtlety over stupefaction! 

Are you the type to take your bud on the go? Pax has you covered with a lightweight portable vape that takes up less space in your pocket than the average cell phone. Rocking a magnetic oven door, three heat settings, and a long-lasting battery life, this vape is the BMW of portable dry herb vaporizers. Maybe you want portable that packs a little more power? The Storz & Bickel Mighty+ is the Rolls Royce looking to take you on the cleanest ride, with its ceramic chamber and zero to sixty second heating time.

Perhaps you prefer to take your tokes in the comfort of your living room with friends? Vape with Volcano! Another creation from the geniuses at Storz & Bickel, this table top vaporizer is perfect for the party smoker. Simply pack your bud in the chamber and let the volcano fill up a bag that can be passed around or taken down solo. 

If you’re the type to work long solo hours at your desk and prefer to puff on a gadget that belongs in your pencil case, there’s nothing more classic than the Magic Flight Launch Box. While this little gadget may seem like a relic of old, it's hard to compete with its reliability and ease of use. Plus, you feel like a medieval magician transforming flower into power with only a Tic-Tac-sized box. Just load your dry herb into the bowl area, close the top, push the battery down, and blitz. You’re off to the races, dude. For those who love accessories and add-ons, Magic Flight has a showerhead perc called the Orbiter that attaches right to the box for the smoothest vapor this side of the ozone. 

A Brief History of Dry Herb Vapes

Unlike some of the more mainstream smoking vessels, the vaporizer is new(ish) to the scene and quite literally takes the smoke out of smoking, revolutionizing both the experience of getting high and the preservation of the flower. However, akin to most cool shit, vaping is actually an old school technique — like borderline ancient.

Egyptians got by without gadgets and gizmos, employing their own methods of marijuana vaporization involving hot stones and vapor inhalation. This harkens to the use of sweat lodges by Native Americans, who would use these spiritual chambers to cleanse, purify, and connect with both their ancestors and creator. 

Fast forward to 2000, the German wizards at Storz & Bickel dropped a game-changer: the Volcano desktop vaporizer. This bad boy didn’t just roll into the world, it pretty much set the gold standard for what a vaporizer should be. Jump to 2017, and people were still raving about it, with tons of folks still vibing on that unbeatable quality of vapor it pumped out. If you’ve ever seen a Volcano in action, you know the iconic balloon fill-up — it’s legendary! 

Once the Volcano made waves, a chain reaction began. Other companies jumped on the desktop vaporizer train, and soon after, portable vaporizers emerged to scratch that convenience itch. The first notable one was the Iolite, a butane-powered gem that arrived in 2008.

Then, in 2010, we got the Magic Flight Launch Box, which is still one of the smallest and most beloved high-end vaporizers around. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, in 2011, the Arizer Solo rolled in, setting a whole new benchmark for portable devices. 

These days, vaporizers are as lowkey or as highkey as you want, boasting state-of-the-art details and remarkable materiality like quartz chambers, hello Stüdenglass, and the option between convection and conduction heating. The real takeaway here is dry herb vaporizers remove the combustion aspect of smoking, which leads to a cleaner high and less long-term effects on the lungs. Keep reading to gauge all the budtastic benefits to vaporizing that mary. 

Why Choose Vapor for Your Bomb Chron

1. Are Vapes Healthier? Maybe. 

More Sticky than Icky
Vaporizing eliminates the harmful byproducts of combustion, such as tar and carcinogens, significantly lowering health risks associated with traditional smoking. This makes it a safer alternative, especially for those concerned about lung health, and results in less odor cloaking (mom will never know).

Gentler on the Breath Bags
Vapor is cooler and less irritating than smoke, which can really harsh the mellow on your respiratory system. Many vapesters report a smoother inhalation experience (both long and short term) with vaporizers, reducing the likelihood of coughing or discomfort. 

2. Efficiency

More Bang for Your Bud
Vaporizing allows for better extraction of cannabinoids, with studies showing that it can convert up to 46% of THC compared to about 25% when smoked. This means users can experience stronger, more direct effects with less product.

Maximized Flavor and Aroma
Vaporizing preserves and heightens the natural flavors and aromas of cannabis, which is undeniably delicious and therefore enhances the overall experience. Users can enjoy the distinct profiles of different strains without the harsh cloak of smoke overpowering the delicate florals and piney effervescences.

3. Convenience

Portable, Discrete, and Clean
Most vaporizers are compact and easy to conceal, making them ideal for on-the-go use no matter where life takes you. Vapor has a way less odor than smoke, allowing for a more discreet experience in public or shared spaces where stigma lurks.

Easy Peasy
Vaporizers are generally pretty simple to operate, with many devices offering precise temperature controls and thorough guides. Weedsters can then customize their experience based on preference and desired effects — our favorite part!

 4. Social Interaction

Shareability
Despite the universal act of a smoke break, vaporizing can in fact be more social than smoking, as many devices allow for easier sharing via more sanitary material or switchable mouthpieces. The lighter vapor and reduced odor make it more suitable for group settings, where folks can enjoy bud together without overwhelming the space.

Flexible Use
Vaping accommodates various preferences considering most models have dual chambers allowing for both a flower or wax concentrate burn. 

5. Therapeutic Effects

Targeted Cannabinoid Delivery
Vaporizing activates specific cannabinoids to be released depending on the temperature, providing users with tailored therapeutic effects. Lower temperatures enhance the calming effects of CBD for a chill night while higher temperatures can release more THC for stronger psychoactive effects and a more experiential session.

Immediate Effects
Inhalation provides faster onset of effects compared to edibles, allowing vapers to feel the good vibes more quickly. This is particularly beneficial for those seeking immediate relief from symptoms such as pain or anxiety (or boredom).

6. Cost-Effective

Less Product Waste
Because vaporizing is more efficient, you need less cannabis to achieve desired effects — so warn your dealer! This leads to significant savings over time and a more sustainable approach to consumption.

Longevity of Products
Quality vaporizers are designed for durability and longevity meaning less frequent replacements compared to traditional smoking devices. We’ve all shattered a bowl or ten.

Vaping vs. Smoking

When it comes to comparing the differences between smoking and vaporizing herb, many folks reported feeling way stronger effects from vaping — the effects they want versus the ones they don’t, i.e, paranoia, drowsiness, dry mouth, lethargy. They noted that the high you get from vaporizing can totally change depending on things like temperature, how you handle the device, the quality of the vaporizer, what kind you’re using (like a tabletop vs. a portable), and the bud itself. Someone from a scientific study summed it up pretty nicely: “If you vape weed, you actually get more effects than if you just put it in a blunt” (#12). Another chimed in, saying, “Different methods give you different types of highs . . . vaporizing gives you a head high . . . bowls give you a body high” (#2).

One participant explained that using a vaporizer “does feel different, and vaping, for me, is usually way more of a head high . . . and you get hit by . . . the just straight THC a lot easier, especially if you have a lower temp” (#28). Some folks also mentioned that vaporization tends to bring on more gradual effects, but generally, the high felt stronger, more crystallized compared to smoking. One participant pointed out, “Vaporizing is different than smoking…with a vaporizer, you get more specific cannabinoids out of it.” On the flip side, another participant shared how the effects from vaporizing feel distinct from smoking, impacting what they could get done during the day. They said, “The high I get is different than like smoking a blunt . . . I feel like when I face a blunt . . . I’m just like whoa. But like when I smoke a vaporizer, I’m like okay . . . I can carry on with my day” (#17). Plus, people noted that vaporizers tend to be more shareable and feel more “social” compared to the usual bowls, bongs, or joints (#1). Pretty interesting stuff, right? For the TLDR; see the chart below to compare popular methods of getting loud.

See how vaping stacks up against smoking and dabbing:

DankGeek’s Favorite Dry Herb Vaporizers

If you’re like any enthusiast, options and trinkets are the bread and butter of collecting and utilization. One size certainly does not fit all when it comes to vapes, and there couldn’t be more options that suit your aesthetic. There are so many designs out there, each with its own unique perks, that you really can’t go wrong. They each enhance your cannabis experience in their own ways. Let’s take a little journey through the different types of vaporizers, highlighting some popular brands along the way.

Portable Vaporizers

Imagine this: you’re out with friends, and you want to enjoy some herb without drawing too much attention. Enter the portable vaporizer. These compact, battery-operated devices are perfect for on-the-go sessions. Brands like Yocan and HoneyStick’s Minimax Pro make some of the best portable vaporizers that heat up quickly, so you don’t have to wait around.

Desktop Vaporizers

Now, picture a cozy evening at home with friends surrounded by the sounds of The Office and the scent of pure flower. A desktop vaporizer is your best buddy for these chill nights. These robust machines, like the Arizer V-Tower and The Volcano Hybrid from Storz & Bickel are designed for home use and often come with advanced features.

Vape Pens

If you prefer something slim and sleek, vape pens are your go-to. Brands like Dr. Dabber, Kandy Pens, and G Pen offer stellar options that are compact and versatile, working well with both concentrates and dry herbs.

Hybrid Vaporizers

For those who live on cloud nine and ten, hybrid vaporizers are a fantastic choice. Devices like the Firefly 2+ and Boundless Tera let you switch between conduction and convection heating methods.

Convection Vaporizers

Now, let’s talk about convection vaporizers. The Arizer Extreme Q heats air and passes it through your herb, ensuring even heating without direct contact.

Conduction Vaporizers

On the flip side, we have conduction vaporizers. Devices like the PAX Plus and the DaVinci IQC work by directly heating the herb through contact with a hot surface.

Whip-Style Vaporizers

For a more interactive experience, whip-style vaporizers are a fun choice. The nostalgic’s wet dream from Retro Vapes and Arizer V-Tower are popular models that use a flexible tube for inhalation, giving you a bit more control.

Balloon Vaporizers

Last but not least, let’s talk about balloon aka desktop vaporizers. Imagine filling a bag with the delicious vapors of mother earth’s magical herb and then taking your time to inhale and pass around at everyone’s leisure. The Storz & Bickel Volcano is the classic choice here, renowned for its quality and historically long time on the scene.

What to Consider When Buying a Vape: Insights from Our Community 

True knowledge about dry herb vaping lives with the people! After trolling reddit threads, reviews, and other cannabis community portals, these are the personal experiences and tips that will influence and enhance your vaping journey. 

• Choosing the Right Vaporizer

Many geeks emphasize the importance of selecting a high-quality vaporizer that suits your needs. Popular recommendations include the PAX, Mighty, and Arizer models, which are known for their reliability and performance. You can’t go wrong with any of the DankGeek offerings, we hardcore vet our vendors, so allow your eyes to do the shopping.

• Temperature Control Matters

A recurring theme in the discussion is the significance of temperature settings. Different temperatures can affect the flavor and effects of your herb. Many users suggest starting at lower temperatures (around 350°F) to preserve flavor and gradually increasing for more potent effects. Experimenting with temperature can help you find your sweet spot!

• Grind Consistency

Getting the right grind for your herb is crucial. The gang recommends a medium to fine grind to ensure even heating and optimal vapor production. A good grinder can make a big difference in your vaping experience.

• Maintenance is Key

Regular detailing on your vaporizer is essential for maintaining flavor and efficacy, don’t mask the bud’s genuine beauty! The only thing you should stress when it comes to vapes is keeping the device clean to avoid buildup, which can affect the quality of the vapor. Simple cleaning solutions, like isopropyl alcohol, can help keep everything fresh while many of the vape’s designs make it simple to detail all the elements.

• Benefits Over Smoking

Several redditors shared their experiences transitioning from smoking to vaping. Many noted that they felt the switch to be way less harsh on their lungs and were able to enjoy the smorgasbord of their budtenders. The reduced odor and discretion of vaping were also highlighted as major advantages.

• Experimenting with Strains

Vaping allows vaporers to explore different strains and their effects more easily and intricately. Many community members encourage trying various strains to see how they react, as the myriad origins of terpenes can create unique experiences.

The Science is Sciencing

Let’s get into the nitty gritty of reefer religion aka the p’s and q’s of cannabis compounds and what’s really going on when that flower meets heat.

 The Chemistry of Cannabis

Cannabinoids:

The primary active compounds in cannabis are cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce various effects.

Terpenes:

These are aromatic compounds found in cannabis and other plants. They contribute to the flavor and aroma and can influence the effects of cannabinoids through the "entourage effect," where different compounds work synergistically.

Temperature and Vaporization

Vaporization vs. Combustion:

Combustion occurs at high temperatures (around 450°F or 232°C), leading to the production of harmful byproducts like tar and carcinogens. Vaporization, on the other hand, occurs at lower temperatures (typically between 330°F to 400°F or 165°C to 200°C), allowing cannabinoids and terpenes to be released without burning the plant material.

Specific Temperature Ranges:

• THC: Vaporizes around 315°F to 440°F (157°C to 227°C).

• CBD: Vaporizes at slightly higher temperatures, around 320°F to 356°F (160°C to 180°C).

• Terpenes: Each terpene has a different boiling point, affecting their release and flavor profile. For example, myrcene vaporizes around 332°F (167°C), while limonene is closer to 349°F (176°C).

Vaporizer Mechanisms

Biological Interaction

Endocannabinoid System (ECS):

The ECS plays a critical role in how cannabinoids affect the body. It consists of receptors (CB1 and CB2) that are activated by cannabinoids. The method of consumption (vaporizing vs. smoking) can influence how quickly these compounds enter the bloodstream and their overall effects.

Bioavailability:

Vaporizing can provide a higher bioavailability of cannabinoids compared to smoking. This means more of the active compounds are available for the body to use. Inhalation provides rapid absorption into the bloodstream via the lungs without the risk of smoke-related damage. 

FAQs

What’s the difference between dry herb, wax, and oil vaporizers?
Dry herb vaporizers are your go-to for vaporizing actual herb without lighting it up. Wax vaporizers are designed for those gooey concentrates and give you a full-on vaping experience. Oil vaporizers are all about those oil-based goodies and are perfect for when you want to be low-key and subtle.

What are the main parts of a vaporizer?
A vaporizer is pretty simple: you’ve got the battery (that’s what powers the whole operation), a heating chamber (where you pack your herb or concentrate), and a mouthpiece (where the magic happens) — you inhale and the vapor greets you in tasteful doses!

Why are vaporizers seen as a healthier option?
Vaporizers are considered healthier because they heat up your material just enough to release vapor instead of smoke. This means no combustion, which keeps those nasty toxins and carcinogens away.

How do I keep my vaporizer clean?
Keeping your vaporizer in tip-top shape is easy! Just make sure to clean out the heating chamber regularly, wipe down the mouthpiece, and check that the battery is charged and ready to go. For those that collect resin, make sure to remove it (ideally) after each use.

How can I get the best vaping experience?
To optimize your vibe, remember that different materials work best at different temperatures. Tweaking your device’s settings based on what you’re vaping can make a huge difference in the quality of your experience.

What should I think about when buying a vaporizer?
Besides the price tag, check out how fast it heats up, the temperature control options, whether it works with various materials, and the warranty the manufacturer offers, and the overall grooviness. It helps if the marketplace is stacked with Dank Geeks like us. 

How do vaporizers affect the environment?
Vaporizers are generally more eco-friendly than smoking. They create less waste and give off way less second-hand smoke, so they’re a better choice for Mother Earth.

What’s new in vaporizer tech?
Vaporizer technology is always advancing! You’ll find cool features like precise temperature controls, digital displays, smartphone compatibility, and sleek portable designs that keep getting better for a more radical vaping experience.

Get High the Dank Geek Way

We’ve thoroughly enjoyed talking all things dry herb vapes with you, but there’s always more to ask, learn, and buy! Let your own mind do the wandering and explore all the devices and vaporizers we have to offer. And remember, herb is that sweet green plant that joins us all together so join our community of knowledgeable and generous greenery enthusiasts and sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of this page.