The thca carts market has expanded at a rapid rate and they vary in quality from pathetic to good, with a $12 cart and a $30 looking like the same product on a shelf, but performing entirely differently in use. So, here are some things to look out for before purchasing.
From the analysis certificate (COA). All respected brands should be able to give you a batch report that confirms the strength of the cannabinoids and checks for heavy metals, pesticides and residual solvents. Not having one of the major warning sign if the QR code on the box doesn’t connect to anything you are breathing directly into your lungs.
Finally, the understanding of the importance of the distinction between live resin and distillate. Distillate is not flattering, it is very refined and then flavored with terpenes (from the original strain or non). While other varieties may use flash frozen resin, live resin is created with only live resin, which has a more well-rounded terpene profile and a more floral taste. If you’re looking for a true-to-strain experience along with the taste, then live resin is the added few dollars worth it.
The hardware is important as the oil. A ceramic coil will heat evenly and won’t give a burnt, plasty aftertaste as will a cheap wick coil. The standard thca cart should also be snug and fit a 510-thread battery, and if it is loose or requires jiggling, then expect it to get looser with time, not tighter.
Consider the milligrams and price. While it might seem like a better deal to get a $15 cart with 500mg, that’s not necessarily the case because you’re not purchasing by cartridge, you’re purchasing by milligram. In addition, be aware that THCA products are in a legal limbo if you live in certain states, and some prohibit shipping altogether, so always check a shop’s shipping policy before placing an order, under the 2018 Farm Bill’s limitation of 0.3% Delta-9 THC.
For comparison, Dope THC’s thca cartridge line contains all of this: All 1ml live resin cartridges, strain-specific terpene profiles, standard 510-thread hardware, and every thca cartridge sent out is published with a COA.
When you buy a Cart that looks good, there are 3 obvious questions that you need to ask: Does it have a real COA? Live Resin or Distillate? Is the hardware easy to vape? Then you won’t have to deal with most of the less enjoyable carts that are being released these days.