Cannabis 101: What is Shatter?

In recent years, the presence of a variety of new and unusual cannabis products have graced the shelves of dispensaries across the country. Cannabis concentrates, previously considered niche and partaken by only the most experienced of cannabis consumers, are now relatively common at any dispensary. The sheer selection of cannabis concentrates to choose from, though, can often leave customers feelings overwhelmed. For those unfamiliar with concentrates, today we answer the question: What is shatter?

What is Shatter?

To understand shatter, one should first understand cannabis concentrates. Concentrates are created by extracting the chemicals within cannabis that lend flower its potency. These chemicals, known as cannabinoids, are then distilled into a form which can be super-heated to produce more potent smoke than what results from a typical bowl of ground cannabis.

Shatter is a type of cannabis concentrate created through this extraction and distillation process. Whereas other forms of concentrates take on a consistency like thick syrup, butter, or powder, shatter is known for its glassy texture reminiscent of hard candy. Shatter is known as the most powerful variety of concentrate available, as the extraction process compresses the most cannabinoids into the smallest area.

How is Shatter Made?

Shatter is created through an extraction method similar to other concentrates. Cannabis compounds are stripped from the plant with the use of a solvent, such as CO2 or butane gas, and then compressed into a highly-concentrated form which is ignited. Shatter goes through an extra step during the distillation process to remove impurities, making the resulting product the purest type of concentrate available.

How to Use Shatter

While other forms of cannabis consumption have relatively easy intake methods, using shatter can be a complicated endeavor for new or inexperienced consumers. To use shatter properly, like most concentrates, equipment known as a “dabbing rig” is required. These rigs can be found at many smoke shops across the country or purchased online from a variety of specialized outlets.

If you aren’t able to get your hands on a dabbing rig and are simply looking for a way to use shatter you’ve been given, the concentrate can be used as a topping for bowls or a way to super-juice the potency of joints. When igniting shatter with a lighter, just hover the flame over it for a short amount of time to let it melt and settle across the flower. The resulting bowl will be at least twice as potent as it would have been otherwise.

Where to Find Shatter

Shatter can be found at most recreationally legal dispensaries across the country, however, its production and sale are limited by regulations in certain states with stricter laws regulating cannabis. While shatter is often treated like any other cannabis product, authorities are still determining whether or not its enhanced potency is cause for tighter control over its distribution.

Want to get your hands on some quality shatter? Make sure you’re getting the good stuff—find your nearest Have a Heart location below!