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How Do Crumbl, Wax, and Shatter Differ?
October 7, 2024
The global cannabis market soared past $3 billion in 2022, showcasing its incredible diversity in extraction methods and product types. For many recreational users, concentrates like shatter, wax, crumble, and budder are the go-to choices, each offering a unique experience.
But what really sets these concentrates apart? Most of them begin with crude oil extracted using hydrocarbons, but it’s the post-processing techniques that create the variations we know and love. For instance, crumble and budder are both types of wax, differing mainly in texture.
Navigating the terminology surrounding cannabis concentrates can be tricky, but understanding the basics of their production will deepen your appreciation for each type. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of concentrates and discover what makes each one special!
Wax is a standout in the cannabis concentrate world, celebrated for its opaque appearance that ranges from deep golden-brown to vibrant yellow. Known for its high potency and ability to preserve a rich terpene profile, wax is typically enjoyed through dabbing or vaporization.
Creating wax involves a meticulous production process that begins with crude oil extracted using butane-based hydrocarbons. Once extracted, technicians focus on eliminating any residual solvents through a crucial step called vacuum purging. In this stage, the crude oil is spread into thin slabs on parchment-lined trays and placed in specialized ovens under controlled vacuum conditions. This low-temperature vacuum purge not only removes solvents but also keeps the delicate terpene composition intact.
While hydrocarbon extraction and vacuum purging are essential for all dab-centric concentrates, wax goes through additional steps to achieve its unique texture and consistency. After the vacuum purge, the concentrate is whipped or manipulated using various techniques, such as folding or kneading. The order of purging and whipping can also vary, impacting the final product.
Whipping serves a critical function by separating THCA from waxes, lipids, and terpenes within the concentrate. This separation results in the formation of tiny crystals suspended in a waxy mixture. The terpene content plays a significant role in the final texture; lower terpene levels typically yield a drier consistency, leading to the creation of “crumble” waxes.
To achieve its signature drier consistency, wax undergoes a longer purging duration compared to other extracts. However, not all cannabis strains are ideal for crumble production, and excessive whipping can lead to a different texture known as “badder,” rather than the desired honeycombed crumble wax.
In summary, the art of crafting wax is a careful balance of extraction, purging, and manipulation, resulting in a high-potency concentrate that delights the senses. Whether you’re a seasoned dabber or new to concentrates, understanding the intricacies of wax production can enhance your appreciation for this remarkable cannabis product.
Shatter is an eye-catching cannabis concentrate known for its striking, glass-like consistency, setting it apart from softer concentrates. Its firm texture requires users to employ techniques like “shattering” or “pull and snap” to break off small pieces for consumption.
True shatter is translucent, showcasing hues that range from dark brown to bright golden-yellow. This concentrate is versatile, commonly used for vaping, dabbing, or further processed into vape cartridges and edibles.
The journey to creating shatter begins with low-temperature hydrocarbon extraction, often utilizing a butane-based solvent blend. Interestingly, extractions rich in propane can result in a crystallized or sugary texture, which alters the final product’s consistency by extracting a more complex terpene profile.
Once extracted, technicians spread the crude oil onto trays to create a thin film of concentrate. This is where the magic of the vacuum purge happens, lasting between 36 to 72 hours. The efficiency of this purge can be observed through the formation of bubbles on the surface of the slab. Some technicians even flip the slab multiple times during this process to enhance the efficiency of solvent removal.
Shatter’s unique texture and production process make it a standout in the world of cannabis concentrates. Whether you’re dabbing or using it in a vape pen, understanding how shatter is made adds an extra layer of appreciation for this visually stunning and potent product.
Budder is an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of stickier wax variations, including budder wax, badder, BHO budder, cake badder, and more. Each of these products shares unique characteristics while falling under the broader budder category.
After the crude oil has been purged, the heated concentrate undergoes a whipping process similar to that of other wax-type concentrates. This manual whipping, typically done in small batches, transforms the concentrate’s texture significantly. Waxes with higher terpene levels often take on a “wetter” consistency, which is a hallmark of budder waxes. During this process, the color changes from dark brown to a golden hue, resulting in an opaque concentrate that is both visually appealing and potent.
The terms “budder” and “badder” evoke comparisons to creamed butter or cake batter, highlighting their smooth, creamy textures and appealing appearances. This resemblance not only describes the product but also hints at its rich consistency and potential for flavor.
Budder and its variations are widely used across all cannabis markets and are among the most common concentrates available. Whether you’re dabbing or incorporating it into other products, budder offers a versatile and enjoyable experience for cannabis enthusiasts.
