Cannabis 101: What is a Weed Cart?

One trend continues to take center stage in the rapidly evolving landscape of cannabis: weed carts. Short for "cartridges," carts are a compact, convenient consumption method. But if you're newer to the market outside of flower, you may wonder: what is a weed cart?

From the CCELL 510 cartridges to disposables and brand-specific pods like 710 and PAX, the market offers something for everyone. Each provides an inhaling experience without combustion-related byproducts, which can be a win for some consumers.

What is a Weed Cart?

Also known as THC carts or vape carts, weed carts are small, cartridge-like devices that house cannabis oil or concentrates.

People use carts with vaporizers or vape pens. Each comprises several essential components that harmonize to deliver a seamless vaping experience.

The cartridge contains cannabis oil, while the mouthpiece allows for easy inhalation. A heating element, typically battery-powered, heats the oil to the optimal temperature for vaporization, producing a flavorful and aromatic vapor.

An innovation for the industry, carts have transformed the way people can experience the effects of cannabis. These handy devices offer a discreet, efficient, and customizable approach to consuming cannabis. They also provide a way to consume cannabis without combustion or the wait for edibles to kick in.

Vape carts are available in various sizes, accommodating different volumes of concentrate. The variety lets consumers choose carts that meet their preferences and dosing requirements. This is a bonus that makes carts ideal for both occasional users and regular enthusiasts. However, everyone is different, so experiences and preferences vary.

One of the standout features of carts is their capacity to offer consistent potency. Dosing information is often readily available on the packaging, empowering consumers to select their preferred cannabinoid content levels.

What Does a Cart Look Like?

You may be wondering: "What does a cart look like?" A typical cart has a slender cylindrical shape with an outer shell, often made of glass or plastic. At the top of the cartridge is the mouthpiece, where you inhale the vapor. The mouthpiece is designed for comfort, enabling a smooth and effortless vaping experience.

The cartridge's heart is the heating element, a small device that connects to the vape's battery via the connector and converts concentrate into vapor.

Lastly, the bridge connecting the cartridge and vaporizer is the connector. Most vape models are compatible with a 510-thread connector, but some take a different size. There are also magnetic connectors that make swapping carts out a breeze.

How Do Carts Work?

To get started, you'll need a battery and a compatible cart. Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific device. 

When you inhale, the active compounds in the concentrate enter your system via the lungs. Many users report feeling effects within minutes, providing a discreet and quick way to consume cannabis.

Vape cart potency varies, with THC levels ranging from moderate to high. However, many carts are marketed as high-THC cannabis concentrates. 

Beginners should start with lower THC concentrations and gradually increase as needed. If you can only find high-THC carts, begin with a single puff – maybe two – and see how you feel after a few minutes. There's no reason you can't take additional puffs as needed. Additionally, some carts focus on other cannabinoids (so you can use a CBD cart instead if you want a non-intoxicating experience).

Effects typically last 2 to 4 hours. However, consumption frequency, cannabis tolerance, the cart's THC content, and other factors all affect the duration.

So, how do carts work?

1. Prepare Your Device

Make sure it's charged and ready for use. Confirm compatibility with your cart's connector type.

2. Attach the Cart

Gently connect the vape cart to your vaporizer. Ensure a secure fit to enable proper vaporization.

3. Activate the Device

Some vaporizers have a button to activate the heating element. Refer to your device's instructions, if any, for specifics.

4. Inhale and Enjoy

Inhale gently from the mouthpiece while the heating element is active. Then, exhale the vapor.

What Are the Different Types of Carts?

While each weed cart is similar, it's important to distinguish between different types to find your preference. They also differ from dab pens, so it's good to understand the difference.

510-Thread Vape Cartridge

The most common cartridge type available on the market features a pattern of 10 5mm threads. People typically mean the 510-thread system when referring to a "vape pen." Having a 510 battery on hand is always convenient.

Pros

• Discreet, small, and convenient
• Simply screw your cartridge onto your vape battery
• Anecdotally, these cartridges may last longer than dried flowers for some consumers.
• Massive level of variety due to how many cart brands use 510-thread for compatibility

Cons

• Not every 510-thread cart is equal, so you may have varying experiences.

One-Time-Use Vape Pen

Alternatively, one-time-use vape pens are an all-in-one construction. The battery, mouthpiece, and cartridge are all one device. Some companies have opted for adding a charging port due to the battery capacity often being smaller than the average battery. They aren't refilled, which means minimal upkeep and maintenance. That's a big plus for consumers too busy to manage the hassle of maintaining a vape rig.

Pros

• The all-in-one construction means you can turn it on, use it until it runs out, then throw it away.
• Least amount of maintenance or upkeep.

Cons

• Some all-in-ones don't have a way to charge the device if the battery dies before you finish its contents.
• Unfortunately, while some vape pen tops may be recyclable, the components in all-in-one vape batteries make them unable to be recycled or thrown away with your household garbage.

Device-Specific and Dab Carts

Lastly, there are proprietary carts for specific vape models. Some batteries are only compatible with a specific brand's carts or pods. Other brands may make a compatible version of those pods but are often only compatible with one brand. For example, some of the vape rigs from PAX only work with PAX pods.

Pros

• With a specialized device, you're often offered better features than standard vape pens.
• Likewise, you'll typically experience greater control over temperature and other variables.
• Commonly available at licensed retailers.

Cons

• Proprietary, device-specific cartridges aren't always available in every dispensary.

What Do Carts Use?

There are several types of consumables commonly used in carts.

THC or CBD Distillate Oil

These are highly refined cannabis extracts in carts. Distillate is a form of concentrate popular among recreational consumers due to its high level of THC and lack of cannabis flavor.

THC or CBD Live Rosin

Live rosin is a solventless cannabis concentrate made by applying heat and pressure to fresh cannabis flowers or hash. It may contain THC, CBD, or a combination, and it's used in carts for a more natural, flavorful experience.

THC or CBD Live Resin

Live resin is a cannabis concentrate made by flash-freezing fresh cannabis plants and extracting cannabinoids and terpenes using a hydrocarbon, like butane. It can be THC- or CBD-dominant, prized for its potent flavor and aroma. Some consumers believe live resin is better than distillate, but that's up for discussion.

THC or CBD Cured Resin

Made using the most common extraction method, hydrocarbon, cured resin is similar to live resin in flavor, usually with slightly fewer terpenes, but may often boast higher cannabinoid content. 

THC or CBD CO₂ Oil

One of the most popular extraction methods in the cannabis industry is CO₂ oil. The carbon dioxide extraction method can yield THC or CBD extracts while also preserving terpenes. CO₂ oils are often used in carts for their level of cleanliness and potency.

There are several ways to use these different types of oils outside of carts, too. Some users prefer vaping out of carts, while others prefer using oils through other methods.

Delta-8 Oil

Delta-8 oil can be used in vape cartridges for a milder intoxicating effect compared to delta-9 THC. It's also a popular product in areas where delta-9 THC in high-THC cannabis strains is still restricted. However, vaping delta-8 oil isn't advised due to potential byproducts.

What are the Pros and Cons of Weed Carts?

As with all things, there are advantages and disadvantages to using cannabis vape pens.

Pros

• Discreet. Vape carts emit minimal odor, especially compared to traditional smoking methods. Vaping may be more suitable where discretion is essential.
• Flavor Variety. Weed carts come in a wide range of strains and flavors, providing users with diverse options for effects and taste.
• Ease of Use. Pens are easy to use, typically requiring no additional accessories or preparation. Consumers often simply need to inhale (or press a button and then inhale) to activate the device.

Cons

• Health Risks. Research indicates that vaping may have health risks, including pulmonary issues and lung damage. 

Additional research shows metals may be present in some cannabis vaporizer aerosols, potentially originating from cartridge components. These metals may pose health risks when inhaled.

• Potential Legal and Regulatory Issues. The legality and regulation of cannabis and cannabis-related products varies by location. Using weed carts in areas where they're not legal can result in legal consequences.
• Counterfeit Products. Counterfeit or unregulated cartridges are a significant concern. They may contain harmful additives, incorrect potency levels, or dangerous contaminants, posing health risks to users. 

It's vital to understand how to choose a vape cart that's safe and from a reputable source. Purchase from licensed dispensaries and stay informed about the potential risks and side effects associated with cannabis vaping.

How to Choose the Right Weed Cart

Choosing the right weed cart is crucial to ensure safety, quality, and a satisfying experience. There are several factors and features consumers should consider when selecting a cart.

Source and Legality

Counterfeit cartridges typically lack quality control, proper testing, and accurate labeling. They may contain harmful additives, incorrect potency levels, and contaminants that can pose serious health risks.

Fortunately, there are ways to avoid counterfeit carts, like ensuring you're purchasing from a licensed retailer. Purchase from reputable, well-established cannabis brands that offer transparent packaging and genuine quality.

Lab Testing

Likewise, look for carts that third-party laboratories have rigorously tested. Lab testing should confirm the potency and safety of the product. Check if the test results are available and easily accessible.

Ingredients and Potential Additives

Make sure to read the ingredient list carefully. Avoid carts that contain harmful additives, thinning agents, or synthetic cannabinoids. Pure cannabis extracts are generally preferred for safety and quality.

Cannabinoid Content

Determine which cannabinoid content level you'd prefer, including THC and CBD. Then, choose a cart with cannabinoid levels that suit your preferences and needs. However, be cautious of carts with exaggerated or unverified potency claims.

Terpene Profile

Terpenes play a significant role in the flavor and effects of cannabis. Consider carts that preserve the natural terpene profile of the strain, as this can enhance your vaping experience.

Read Reviews

Lastly, do your own research on different cart reviews to better understand what's available. Many worthwhile brands are on the market now, so it's worth taking some time to consider what might suit you best.

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.