What’s in a name?
All concentrates begin with a solvent, butane for example, or non-solvent (CO2) extraction process. It is after the extraction process that the producer makes a choice to make shatter or sugar for example. All concentrates depend on how the extracted oil is handled, but the choice of concentration technique makes a world of difference in the end product available to the consumer.
Shatter ( aka “pull and snap” or “taffy”):
Pros
- Butane Hash Oil (BHO) extractions can reach a 99% THC level.
Cons
- The butane extraction can leave behind residual solvent.
- The cooled glass-like nature of shatter is brittle and can literally shatter when trying to dab.
Wax/Budder (aka badder, batter, or crumble)
Pros
- Moldable texture of wax.
- Easily put on a dab tool which eases dosing.
Cons
- Melts quickly. The dab rig must be at a cool temperature before adding.
Honeycomb (aka “pie crust” or crumble)
Pros
- The honeycomb look has a coolness factor.
Cons
- Honeycomb can be brittle like shatter or waxy like beeswax. There is no set standard for the product.
Rosin
Pros
- Prepared only by heat and pressure, there is no chance of solvent residue.
- Glue texture makes it easy to add to a dab ring.
- Can be vaped.
Cons
- Often more expensive than solvent extraction methods.
Sugar (aka oil or “sugar oil”)
Pros
- Shatter and budder can “sugar” if not stored properly. While the quality hasn’t changed, visually people feel it is different. Therefore sugar is sold at a discounted price.
Cons
- Can be hard to get on a dab pin.
As with any cannabis, start low and slow. For a concentrate, a grain of rice is a good size to aim for.
