International Cannagraphic Magazine Issue #5

Inside this issue:
IC420 Amsterdam Grow Cup
Vape Pens
BHO Safety
INTERNATIONAL
CANNAGRAPHIC
Photo Contest Winners
Tenth
Anniversary
Edition
Cannabis Legalization News
(2004 - 2014)
The Best Threads of ICMag
What Have YOU Learned?
Extracting With Fats & Oils
Living The Stereotype
Cannabis Recipes
International Cannagraphic
International Cannagraphic
www.ICMag.com
International Cannagraphic Magazine
Tenth Anniversary Edition (2004 - 2014)
Inside this issue:
Ten Years of the Cannagraphic
The Best Threads of ICMag
~Payaso
~10 Years of Influential Threads
Cannabis Legalization News
What Have YOU Learned?
~Skip
~Messages from the Cannagraphers
IC420 Grow Cup Amsterdam
Extracting With Fats & Oils
~Coverage from the 10th Annual
~GrayWolf
Vape Pens, the Latest Smoking Fad!
Living The Stereotype
~Review and images by Skip
~Green Path
BHO Safety
Cannabis Recipe Corner
~GrayWolf
~Cooked Cook & Hash Zeppelin
Photo Contest Winners
~MyAssIsGrass
Editors:
Payaso, Skip
Layout, Design:
Payaso
Cover Photo:
SS Skunk #1 Auto
by Spachal
Contributors:
Cooked Cook
GrayWolf
Green Path
Hash Zeppelin
Hydroheinz
MyAssIsGrass
Payaso
Purple Frostbyte
Skip
Tea is Back
UncleFishStick
Published by the International Cannagraphic
Disclaimer: This publication is for educational and entertainment purposes only. You must be of legal age to view this publication.
The publisher and staff do not condone disobeying any laws.
Through this publication you may be able to link to other websites which are not under the control of this publication.
© May 2014, International Cannagraphic
International Cannagraphic
International Cannagraphic
Ten Years of the
Cannagraphic!
Jan 20, 2004, was an important
day in cannabis history.
ICMag.com went live that day,
followed a few months later by
the charter edition of International
Cannagraphic Magazine.
Thank you Gypsy Nirvana for
getting the wheels rolling, to Skip
for building and maintaining the
site, all the moderators, mentors,
super-mods and vendors that
have made this place a great
community, with a life of it's own!
Gypsy Nirvana said, 'it starts with
a seed...' and the International
Cannagraphic has certainly
flourished since that seed was
planted 10 years ago.
Read the first thread here
This place was conceived as a
community for growers, cannabisoriented businesses and seed
breeders to connect, learn and
grow their best!
Most of all, everyone likes
to talk about what they are
growing. The first three popular
threads here at ICMag were
from BushyOldGrower, Crazy
Composer and Wally Duck.
Nice to see them still around and
helping folks be better growers,
and better human beings!
International Cannagraphic
Since 2004 the members of
International Cannagraphic have
grown, matured and flowered
hundreds of strains, and the site
has expanded to over 350,000
members, creating more than 200
thousand threads, with over five
million posts, as of May 2014.
And I can not stress International
enough, as the mulitple forums
for other countries in their
native languages make up a big
part of the action here at the
Cannagraphic. The National
and Other Language Forums are
an amazing place to check out
the world-wide cannabis scene.
Practice your foreign language
skills! ICMag attracts people from
around the globe, with our Italian
forum the most popular group.
A staggering number, over 800
unique strains developed by icmag
breeders and seed companies are
being grown and talked about
here every day. That’s a lot of
cannabis!
But that’s what this is all about,
our favorite plant, how to grow it
and appreciate its many blessings
- from buds to hashish and other
concentrates. Our forums are
packed with stories about how to
smoke it, eat it, medicate with it
and most of all enjoy it! And here
in the eMagazine, we present a
sampling of some of the best from
ten years of Cannagraphic history,
with links to more.
This is for you to enjoy at home,
or wherever you are with your
tablet or smart phone. Save it and
share it with your friends!
~Payaso
International Cannagraphic
Guerrilla Glue #4
photo by UncleFishStick
Marijuana Legalization News
Another 4/20 has come and gone, with freedom to use cannabis
gaining ground around the world. As people in Colorado and
Washington enjoy their legal marijuana, the fight continues elsewhere.
In the US, Congress is holding oversight hearings where they are
expected to grill the DEA administrator Michele M. Leonhart and
other department heads over the failed War on Drugs and their
intransigence on marijuana policy.
Marijuana legalization continues to work its way onto ballots and
it appears to be something that can draw more voters to the polls.
In many states a majority of voters now support the legalization
and regulation of recreational marijuana, while support for medical
marijuana reaches new heights, into the 80 percentile in many states.
The tide has finally changed and it's turning into a tsunami!
“Nearly four out of ten participants in the nationwide survey said that
they would be "much more likely" to go to the polls if an initiative
seeking to legalize marijuana appeared on the ballot. An additional 30
percent of respondents said that they would be "somewhat" more likely
to participate in an election that also included a marijuana-specific
ballot measure.”
Read Article
International Cannagraphic
Here's a graph of the generational attitudes toward legalization of
marijuana.
International Cannagraphic
Meanwhile state legislators have been coming up with new
cannabis regulations and not waiting for the Federal government
to act.
Alaska: The legalization vote has been postponed until
November. The Alaskan measure would legalize possession of
up to one ounce of cannabis and would allow people to grow up
to six-plants for personal consumption. It would also permit
commercial cannabis production and retail sales of marijuana to
adults. It prohibits the use of marijuana in public. 55% of
Alaskans favor legal, regulated recreational marijuana.
Read Article
Arizona: Arizona needs to get 300,000 signatures on a petition
by July 3, 2014, to place cannabis legalization on the ballot in
2014. So far it's looking good!
http://www.hydrogrowled.com
International Cannagraphic
legalization and regulation of recreational marijuana. There are also a
number of voter initiatives drawn up for the 2014 election cycle,
however it's still unclear which, if any, will make it onto the ballot.
California: The Democratic party of California has called for the
legalization of marijuana. Despite the objections of democrat Governor
Jerry Brown, Democrats voted to "support the legalization, regulation,
and taxation of marijuana in a manner similar to that of tobacco or
alcohol." 65% of California voters and 74% of Democrats support
Florida: This November, Florida will vote whether to allow medical
marijuana with a physician's authorization. 82% of Florida voters
support reforming state law to allow for the medicinal use of
marijuana.
Indiana: Lawmakers in Indiana approved the reclassification of hemp
as an agricultural commodity. Indiana now joins ten other states,
California, Colorado, Kentucky, Maine, Montana, North Dakota,
Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and West Virginia that have also
reclassified hemp as an agricultural commodity under state law. This
follows action by the US Congress allowing pilot programs for the
cultivation of hemp in the US. The US is the only industrialized nation
that prohibits the commercial cultivation of hemp, but this is finally
going to change!
Read Article
International Cannagraphic
Maryland: Two new laws were enacted, one allowing for medical
marijuana with a doctor's certification, the other lowering penalties for
possession of ten grams of marijuana or less. It will no longer be an
arrestable, criminal issue, only a $100 fine for first offense.
Read Article
New Mexico: New Mexico's Department of Health has decided to
expand their medical marijuana program to allow for more commercial
production, and to permit more cannabis to be grown by each
producer. Each grower can now legally produce 150 mature plants and
300 seedlings. This triples the amount allowed before. Only 23
individuals are allowed to grow to supply all the marijuana needed by
medical patients in New Mexico, resulting in a shortage. The
department hopes to get another 12 growers in the program.
Massachusetts: 53% of voters in Massachusetts favor legalization and
there's a drive to put cannabis legalization on the ballot in 2016.
Massachusetts has already decriminalized possession for personal use
and medical marijuana.
New York: 57% of New York voters now approve the regulation and
sale of marijuana for adults.
Michigan: Michigan lawmakers have voted to add PTSD as a
qualifying condition for medical marijuana. You can see all the
medical conditions allowed for medical cannabis in Michigan in the
link below.
http://norml.org/legal/item/michigan-medicalmarijuana
“Respondents most likely to favor legalization include those ages 18
to 29 (83 percent), Democrats (65 percent), those ages 30 to 49 (61
percent), and men (63 percent). Support is significantly lower among
women (51 percent), Republicans (39 percent), and those over the age
of 65 (38 percent).” Support for medical marijuana has now reached
88% in New York!
Read Article
International Cannagraphic
Ohio: A majority (51%) of Ohio voters now support legalization of
marijuana. And a whopping 87% now approve of medical marijuana.
Rhode Island: 53% of Rhode Islanders now support the legalization and
regulation of recreational marijuana for adults. State legislators are
going to introduce legislation to do that, hoping to plug a revenue
shortfall.
Washington D.C.: The city council voted 10 to one to enact "The
Simple Possession of Small Quantities of Marijuana Decriminalization
Amendment Act of 2013," which changes the penalty for possession or
transfer of up to one ounce of marijuana from a criminal misdemeanor to
a civil violation, punishable by a $25 fine, no arrest, no jail time, and no
criminal record.
Washington State: Legislators passed House Bill 2304, which now
allows for retail sales of marijuana concentrates, such as extracts,
waxes, and oils in addition to herbal cannabis. Recreational marijuana
is now legal in Washington State and retail shops will be allowed to
sell to adults starting this summer.
On the International cannabis legalization scene, Latin America seems
to now be leading the way.
Colombia: According to Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos,
the war against drugs has failed. "How do I explain to a peasant in
Colombia that I have to put him in prison for growing marijuana when
in Colorado or in Washington state, it's legal to buy the same
marijuana?" he said. "The world needs a more effective, fresher, more
creative focus to win this war, because until now we haven't won, and
the cost has been enormous." President Santos is taking a softer tone
on the drug war with an election looming soon.
Read Article
International Cannagraphic
Guatemala: Guatemalan President Otto Perez Molina is
hoping to see marijuana and opium production legalized in
the country. A presidential commission is expected to present
its recommendations with a bill for legalization to follow
soon afterwards.
Mexico: The leftist PRD party has sent a bill to Mexico's
Congress to decriminalize cannabis further. They are hoping
to legalize medical marijuana and increase the amount of cannabis an
individual can legally possess from five grams to 30 grams.
Above: recent map from Wikicommons shows cannabis legalization
worldwide.
Read Article
Meanwhile, the ongoing legalization of marijuana and increasing
production in the US has had a huge effect on Mexican marijuana
growers. The farm price of a kilo of pot in Mexico has dropped from
$100 to $25. It's so low that farmers have decided to grow opium
poppies instead, resulting in a huge increase in Mexican heroin
flooding the streets of America. Heroin and methamphetamine have
replaced marijuana as the main drugs smuggled in by cartels from
south of the border, with Mexico now producing
90% of the US heroin supply.
Read article
Uruguay: President Jose Mujica's government has just set the price of
one gram of marijuana sold through government pharmacies at less
than $1 a gram. The hope is that such a low price will put a big dent in
the black market for cannabis. Residents who register with the
government can purchase up to 10 grams a week, but no strain can
exceed 15% THC. Locals are allowed to grow up to six plants per
residence, or purchase through a grower's club. Uruguay is the first
country in the world to legalize and regulate the production and sale of
cannabis on a national level.
International Cannagraphic
Weed Seed Shop has introduced three new
feminized strains.
The Weed Seed Shop range is enriched and extended with the arrival of
Super Cheese, K -Train and Super Silver Cheese . These easy to grow
cannabis seeds combine the positive qualities of Skunk and Cheese;
Trainwreck and Kush; and finally, Cheese and Haze. The new cannabis
strains are an exciting new option for both the grower and the end user.
Cheese
K -Train
High Haze
with a powerful bite India meets the USA
relaxing Cheese
Feminized Super Cheese is an
easy to grow, stable Skunk cross
with the pervasive stoned effect
of Cheese. The abundant yield
this strain produces will be sure to
satisfy discerning growers, and for
consumers this pungent and powerful
indica hybrid promises ultimate
relaxation combined with a high
propensity towards a severe case
of the giggles. A must for all Cheese
connoisseurs!
K -Train Feminized is a promising
combination of Kush and Trainwreck
. This new strain offers a powerful
cross of indica strains from India
with a high level sativa strain
from America. K-Train Feminized
generates a long-lasting high while
being easy to grow, producing strong
, bushy plants. Benefitting from a
short flowering period, the strain
produces a high yield of bud smelling
of sweet oranges and citrus fruit with
an earthy undertone. What more
could anyone ask for?
Feminized Super Silver Cheese
results from the combination of Super
Silver Haze and Cheese, resulting
in a spiritual, ecstatic high combined
with a relaxing body stone. The
desirable balance between strong
growth , moderate height gain and
rewarding harvest should satisfy
all growers while the characteristic
aroma of Cheese, softened with
chamomile and musky elements from
the Haze parent, will certainly delight
those lucky enough to try it.
www.weedseedshop.com
A Paid Advertisement.
© 2004 - 2013 Copyright weedseedshop.com Amsterdam
IC420 2014 - Amsterdam
Your Host: GaiusMarius
The International Cannagraphic, Seed Bay and Seed Boutique recently
held the Tenth Annual 420 Grow Cup in Amsterdam! It was another
fine event. Cheers to GaiusMarius who coordinated the 420 Cup, and
all those who participated. Here's the run down on what went down,
including the schedule, the winners, voting, testing results and entry
pictures.
The Agenda
17th April
10:00 Meet and Greet session, time to get to know first timers and the
regulars to the cup scene! Coffeeshop 1e Hulp on the Marnixstraat 194.
16:00 The Prix d'Ami is the place to be from here on. This is where to
get your judge passes etc. The rest of the day will be free time, those
that are already on site will have a chance to make a head start on the
judging.
International Cannagraphic
15:00 until midnight Prix d'Ami, we have our own section, and you will
need to show your guest pass to get in to our section on the 3rd floor.
Also remember to bring ID, as they check IDs at the door to make sure
no one is under age.
19th April
10:00 until 1pm Wake and Bake session at the Greenhouse.
13:00 Bike tour with Trichomefarmer departs Greenhouse.
16:00 Opportunity to ask Sam the Skunkman some questions. Please
write them down so you don't forget what you wanted to ask! Prix
d'Ami.
20th April
10:00 Wake and Bake session at the Greenhouse.
4:20 pm - 420 Smoke Out at the Prix d'Ami.
19:00 deadline to enter your scores in the online voting module.
April 18th Official Beginning of the 420 Cup
20:00 Award Ceremony Begins at the Prix d Ami, the winners to be
announced and the Cups awarded.
10:00 Wake and Bake as always. Judge packs will be handed out
discreetly from 11.00 until approximately 1.00 pm at the Greenhouse in
Haarlemmerstraat.
21:00 Award Night After-Party and Smoke-Session until closing time at
the Prix d'Ami.
Many thanks to the Prix d'Ami Coffeeshop
for hosting our events!
International Cannagraphic
AMSTERDAM
The map above shows the quick and easy path thru Amsterdam from
the morning venue at the Greenhouse on Haarlemmerstraat to the
Coffeeshop Prix d’Ami where the fun happens in the afternoons and
evenings.
The Winners!
Growers Cup Best Indica Winner
Karma's OG by THC4SIM
Growers Cup Best Sativa Winner
NYCD by cloudz
Breeders Cup Best Sativa Winner
Space Haze by Marimbera
Breeders Cup Best Indica Winner
Karma's OG by Karma Genetics
Best Hash Winner
Fruit Bubble by HydroHeinz
Congratulations!
IC420 Grow Cup Amsterdam 2014
Name
Karmas OG
Exodus Cheese
Gorilla Glue
OG x Mango Haze
Honey Jack Rocket
Name
NYCD
Sour Power
Cloes Cut
Sour Power
Agent Orange Mandarina
Z-99 (Zoidfuel x C99)
unidentified entry
Name
Space Haze
Sour Power
Purple Strawberry Bliss
Shangri-La
New York Grapefruit Diesel
Slver Skunk
Name
Karmas OG
Happy Kush
Flowerbomb Kush
Purple Berry Kush
NYCO (New York Candy Orange)
JewL Gold
Rock Star Kush
Name
Fruit Bubble
Kush Bubble Hash
Sour Bubba Dust
Serious Seeds
Amnesia Mist
Sativa Mix
Marnesia Nights
Chem Dog Cream
Candy Star Bubble
Purple Berry Kush
Mudja Afghani
Conkushion
Chocolombian NK9
By
THC4SIM
gc420
Purple Frostbyte
Purple Frostbyte
freggle
By
cloudz
PapstUrban
HUGE
gc420
bubblecrazy
ganja_hasi
unknown
By
Marimbera
HortiLab
Pheno Finder Seeds
BestHaze
dr.penthotal
Med Man seeds
By
Karma Genetics
dr.penthotal
Strainhunter seeds
besthaze
dr.penthotal
Marimbera
Med Man seeds
By
HydroHeinz
hydroheinz
gc420
Ak-47 Ice-o-Lator
bubblecrazy
HazeHead
Marimbera
Greenhouse seeds
bubblecrazy
besthaze
Marimbera
Med Man Seeds
Marimbera
Appearance
225
224
266
242
215
Appearance
243
233
216
213
224
207
143
Appearance
223
241
228
228
214
129
Appearance
217
231
231
234
199
212
175
Appearance
159
158
141
141
134
117
136
135
131
120
128
120
132
International Cannagraphic
Sheet1
Official Results
Taste
Bouquet
211
222
231
240
234
242
220
229
193
192
Taste
Bouquet
230
246
218
235
191
198
204
213
205
224
209
229
151
169
Taste
Bouquet
222
237
207
225
214
220
205
208
198
223
207
211
Taste
Bouquet
213
222
226
237
208
209
203
240
203
208
196
198
185
186
Taste
Bouquet
142
149
138
Sheet1145
132
127
124
117
126 Page 1127
122
115
118
127
116
122
116
117
110
122
111
125
125
121
110
124
Potency
212
236
246
230
207
Potency
229
220
205
210
212
210
171
Potency
223
216
208
206
207
203
Potency
221
231
220
221
199
216
203
Potency
151
142
143
136
142
127
127
128
139
121
124
119
118
Overall
219
233
245
230
202
Overall
239
221
200
206
211
216
157
Overall
233
221
219
210
208
187
Overall
222
233
218
220
198
209
192
Overall
153
142
139
128
134
121
124
125
123
116
119
119
117
Total
1089
1164
1233
1151
1009
Total
1187
1127
1010
1046
1076
1071
791
Total
1138
1110
1089
1057
1050
937
Total
1095
1158
1086
1118
1007
1031
941
Total
754
725
682
646
663
602
632
626
626
589
607
604
601
Votes
26
30
32
32
30
Votes
29
29
26
27
28
28
24
Votes
28
28
28
28
28
28
Votes
29
31
30
31
28
30
29
Votes
19
19
20
19
20
19
20
20
20
19
20
20
20
Average
41.885
38.8
38.531
35.969
33.633
Average
40.931
38.862
38.846
38.741
38.429
38.25
32.958
Average
40.643
39.643
38.893
37.75
37.5
33.464
Average
37.759
37.355
36.2
36.065
35.964
34.367
32.448
Average
39.684
38.158
34.1
34
33.15
31.684
31.6
31.3
31.3
31
30.35
30.2
30.05
International Cannagraphic
Flower Entries
photos by
Tea_is_Back
Exodus Cheese by
gc420
Gorilla Glue by
Purple Frostbyte
OG x Mango Haze
by Purple frostbyte
Flowerbomb Kush
by Strainhunter
Seeds
Happy Kush by
dr.penthotal
Honey Jack Rocket
by freggle
Purple Berry Kush
by besthaze
Karma's OG by
Karma Genetics
NYCO (New York
Candy Orange) by
dr.penthotal
Sour Power by
Pabst Urban
Shangri La by
besthaze
Chloe's Cut by
HUGE
Sour Power by
HortiLab
New York
Grapefruit Diesel by
dr.penthotal
Sour Power by
gc420
Silver Skunk by Med
Man Seeds
NYCD by cloudz
Purple Strawberry
Bliss by Pheno
Finder Seeds
Agent Orange
Mandarina by
bubblecrazy
Space Haze by
Marimbera
JewL Gold by
Marimbera
Karma's OG by
THC4SIM
International Cannagraphic
Z 99 (Zoidfuel x C99)
by GanjaHasi
Kush Bubble Hash hydroheinz
54 Conkushion Med Man Seeds
Unidentified Flower
Entry!
HASH ENTRIES
photos by
hydroheinz
55 Chem
Dog Cream Greenhouse seeds
56 Sour Bubba Dust
- gc420
Marnesia Nights Marimbera
Chocolombian NK9
- Marimbera
Mudja Afghani Marimbera
57 Sativa Mix HazeHead
Candy Star Bubble bubblecrazy
Purple Berry Kush besthaze
Amnesia Mist bubblecrazy
Many thanks to the Greenhouse Coffeeshop on the Haarlemmerstraat for hosting our
Wake ‘N Bake Sessions!
58 Ak-47 Ice-oLator - Serious
Seeds
59 Fruit Bubble
- hydroheinz
(newzealand/santa
maria 70/30)
International Cannagraphic
This year, all indica and sativa entries to the ICMag 420 cup were
analyzed by Test Lab Amsterdam.
Jahnice says: "some of us are always at the right
place at the right time...
This is the Magere Brug-the old bridge over the
Amstel where people leave their ‘love locks’.
Trichome Farmer and I went out the afternoon of
420 to send out a message of support to Gypsy from
the IC420, 2014.
We had just closed the lock and started taking
our pictures when this photographer and a beautiful
redhead arrived. She quickly dropped her trenchcoat,
revealing nothing, or everything underneath! He
snapped some photos of her posing on the bridge and
a minute later the coat was back on.
We had just enough time to get one shot of them
before they were gone."
Amsterdam is filled with randomness.
International Cannagraphic
Vape Pens,
the Latest Smoking Fad!
International Cannagraphic
Review and images by Skip
You have probably encountered the latest smoking fad somewhere by
now. Hip marijuana users, including celebrities like Whoopi Goldberg
and Snoop Dog, enjoy ingenious new devices to inhale their favorite
strains. “Vape pens” is the generic term for these small, battery
powered devices, that can vaporize or combust cannabis in its many
forms, including ground herb, hashish, oil, wax, shatter, etc.
What is a Vape Pen?
Just a few years ago, the first “pens” appeared allowing people to
smoke a vaporized liquid containing concentrated cannabinoids. The
early designs were based on the e-cigarette model, with a refillable
cartridge, usually containing a sweet, flavored glycerin infused with
THC. These first vape pens broke new ground, allowing marijuana
users, especially medical patients, to vape without needing a big
vaporizer and to take more controlled dosages, as needed.
Then some smart entrepreneurs decided to redesign the e-cigarette
device so it could be used to vaporize cannabis extracts without
having to purchase a pre-filled cartridge. So they designed a variety of
special cartridges with a range of heating elements. At right, you see a
sampling of vape pens that are reviewed in this article.
From left to right: Gentleman’s Viceroy Pen, Gentleman’s Ambassador
Pen, Chosen Vape and Ellipse 5, are all reviewed here.
Why are Vape Pens so popular?
International Cannagraphic
Almost overnight, people are discovering the utility of having a
portable smoking device. Marijuana users can now leave their stash,
grinders, pipes, papers and lighters back home when they go out. They
can fill up their vape pen and have enough to get them through the day
without reloading. And since the vape pens don’t look like a joint or
any kind of cannabis containing device, they’re very stealthy. As long
as you’re vaping concentrated extracts, there won’t be too much of a
smell of marijuana either.
Some people swear by these devices, using them day and night.
They claim they're much easier on the lungs (like most vaporizers).
The main complaint is that they are now consuming much greater
quantities of concentrates than before. This seems to be true of
vaporizing in general, and not necessarily an issue unique to vape
pens.
Now, celebrities are getting into the act! Snoop Dog (Lion) has issued
his own version of a popular vape pen, and others have followed suit.
With such high profile cannabis personalities promoting vape pens,
they’re becoming more popular everyday. They’ve become such hot
items, some vendors are having problems keeping them in stock.
How do Vape Pens Work?
Heating element used to vape oil or herb in Chosen Vape with ceramic
cartridge.
There are several styles of vape pens, but each uses a slightly different
system to vaporize or combust material. You remove the mouthpiece
then place a small amount of extract either on an internal nail, or
directly into the cartridge. You must press the button a few seconds as
the battery powered device heats the element which then vaporizes the
extract. At that point you can inhale the vapors and feel the immediate
relief of cannabinoids flooding your system.
What Kind of Vape Pens are available?
There now seems to be an endless variety of pens and attachments.
Fortunately there is some standardization occurring, as the batteries
and cartridges can now be interchanged in many models.
The cylindrical style is most popular, with pens varying in size from
a tiny pen to something the size of a fat felt-tip marker. Each of these
can come in a few configurations, with different cartridges available
for vaping concentrates, some with a small capacity, some much larger.
Others, like the Chosen Vape pen that is reviewed in this article, has
the ability to vape or combust herbal cannabis (not concentrated) by
reconfiguring or replacing the cartridge. As you’ll read, some do this
better than others.
Another style consists of a glass globe, with a nail visible inside, like
the Gentleman’s Viceroy Vape that we review here. The Chosen Vape
includes a digital display of the battery power and the number of tokes
taken since the last charge, a nice feature!
One thing you can be certain of, these pens will continue to evolve,
especially as the commercial competition heats up.
Cylindrical-style Steel Gentleman’s Vape Pen
International Cannagraphic
How Expensive are Vape Pens?
There’s a wide range of pens available, with prices ranging from
around $30 (or even less if you order quantity directly from China)
to hundreds of dollars. Quality varies accordingly. I’ve noticed many
more complaints coming from people who buy the cheapest pens they
can find online.
One factor that seems to matter in price, is the battery. Cheap
batteries might not provide enough current to heat the element or nail
sufficiently for vaporization, especially when they get low on power.
So battery power and durability is a big factor in price.
The pens themselves seem rather durable. Some have a ceramic
cartridge, others steel inside and out. The Chosen Vape we reviewed
also had a rubberized outer layer that was comfortable to hold and
provided some insulation. Some like the Gentleman’s Vape’s steel
exterior can get rather hot, so you’d have to be careful not to touch the
cartridge immediately after a toke.
Which Kind of Vape Pen Should I Choose?
It seems every style of vape pen has its advantages and its issues. So
it’s worth your while to check out several types before you buy. The
best thing is to try other people’s pens (if you can pry them from their
hands) and see how you like them. You can also view various pens at
your local headshop to get an idea of the range of styles available. If
the sales clerk is knowledgeable he/she can help you decide what is
right for you.
Perhaps the most important issue regarding your choice of pens is what
you want to burn in it. If you’re only going to use concentrated oils and
waxes, you’ll find the biggest selection available, as most pens will
vape those. If you prefer to vape or combust the herb itself, you may
need to find a pen more suitable to that task. Some pens will handle
both, although with varying degrees of success. You can read the
reviews below to see what we mean.
Vape Pen Review:
Gentleman’s Vapes
Gentleman’s Vapes provided us with
two packages, one containing the
Viceroy Kit ($75) and the other parts of
the Ambassador Kit ($99 on sale). They
were out of complete Ambassador kits
at the time of this review. The full Ambassador kit contains two pens!
One normal size, one mini. We only tested the normal pen as well as
the smaller Viceroy pen.
The Ambassador Kit comes in a nice box and contains a regulation
size stainless steel vape pen, with a medium sized oil cartridge. It is
simple and sleek. It took quite a bit of oil to “charge” the cartridge.
That means we had to keep adding more oil (three times) before it
would begin to vape. Apparently the oil slides down slowly to fill the
lower part of the chamber and combust. But once it got going, it did
very well.
The battery included with the Ambassador is very
high quality, 750 mAh, which we found good
for days without a recharge. It also has an
adjustable heat setting, so you can choose
International Cannagraphic
among 3.2V, 3.7V and 4.2V. With each setting, the button displays a
different color light.
Also included in the Ambassador Kit is a special cartridge for
combusting herb. This cartridge contains a vertical heating element,
allowing the herb to completely surround the element from bottom to
top of the cartridge. We found this to be superb for smoking weed!
You only need to hold the button down two or three seconds, then
release and inhale. The cannabis ignites and burns extremely well.
We needed to gently tap down the herb after each toke to ensure the
unburned weed remained in contact with the heating element. If you
don’t like having to use a butane lighter, these herb cartridges are a
great way to go!
We found the element in the
herb cartridge to be very
fragile, with one breaking
when a tester tried to clean it
with a nail. The element is
just like a light bulb filament
(remember those?) so you
shouldn’t try to clean it out that
way. It’s better to just soak
it in some alcohol for awhile.
Fortunately we were sent some
extra herb cartridges, which
only have an expected life of
30 refills. Another issue with
Gentleman’s Herb cartridge with
fragile vertical heating element.
International Cannagraphic
the herb cartridge is there is no filter at all. So you are breathing in
the combusted smoke unfiltered, through a rather large opening in the
mouthpiece that could allow some herb to pass into your mouth.
Gentleman’s Vapes has already said they will re-design these things
after they got our feedback.
Pros:
Elegant, stainless steel pen
Easy to load, not too many parts
Adjustable voltage
Interchangeable parts
Relatively inexpensive
Comes with herb cartridge with vertical heating element
Extra large oil cartridge available
2 ways to charge
Nice storage box
Caution:
Cons:
Cartridges can get hot
Herb cartridge needs filter
Herb cartridge element very fragile
Vape Pens can be a great way
to go, but be careful not to
overdo it.
Use only the highest quality
concentrates from reliable
sources.
Take small sips, not big hits!
Viceroy Kit comes with extra nails and slimline
style. Close up of pen and glass globe on right.
Vape Pen Review:
Gentleman’s Viceroy
The Viceroy Kit was an immediate hit with
one of our testers. He really liked the ease
of use and being able to see the concentrate
vaporize thru the glass globe. With the
Viceroy you remove the mouthpiece and the
nail for concentrates is right there, easy to
fill. It can’t get much simpler than that. The
Viceroy pen is much smaller and lighter than
the Ambassador. It uses a 450 mAh, 3.7V
battery rated for 300 tokes per charge.
However it can use the same fullsize battery as the Ambassador.
In fact, one of the highlights
of Gentleman’s Vapes is that
they design parts that are
interchangeable with other pens.
Besides the batteries, we were
able to switch out any of the
cartridges, oil, herb, big or small
on the pens. This allowed us to
test different configurations.
Pros:
Small, elegant, stainless steel pen.
Glass globe
Very easy to load
Interchangeable parts
Relatively inexpensive
Herb cartridge available
2 extra nails
2 ways to charge (USB or wall)
Nice storage box
Cons:
Cartridges can get hot
Vape Pens: Chosen Vape Review
We were sent four boxes containing the Chosen Ultimate Signature
Series Herbal Vaporizer ($170 each) with the name of the band
“Slightly Stoopid” on them. These bright blue pens definitely stand
out. The matte rubber coat gives the pen a softer feel and provides
more insulation as well as a means to personalize the pen as the band
did. The blue silicone mouthpiece tasted a bit weird at first, but the
taste went away after the first few uses.
This pen was a big hit with one of our testers who ditched his old pen
for the Chosen Vape. He liked how consistently well it vaporized oil
and waxes, as well as the battery life.
One interesting feature of this pen is the
ceramic cartridge. The entire inside is
surrounded by a ceramic wall, helping to
International Cannagraphic
insulate and supposedly
provide an even heating
surface.
The Chosen Vape
also includes a digital
display on the 650mAh
battery, indicating
remaining power in
bars, as well as the
number of button
presses since the last
charge. Note it does
not tell you how many
tokes you have left.
We found this pen
much more difficult
to work with. The
main issue was so
many parts, along with
a confusing manual,
leaving us unsure as to the proper configurations. Some of the parts
are small and easy to drop and lose.
The Chosen Vape is supposed to be able to do everything, vape the
usual full-melt concentrates as well as vaporization of herb. Rather
than providing a separate herb cartridge, you need to reconfigure the
parts inside the chamber. This can include one or two ceramic filters
and a spring, whose use seemed a bit ambiguous.
International Cannagraphic
We tried to use it to vape
weed, but it would only vape
the bit of pot at the bottom,
in contact with the required
ceramic filter. Nothing else
was touched. We followed
the instructions on this video,
pressing the power button
for 15 seconds (twice) and
still it was ineffective at fully
vaping the ground herb.
Vape Pen Review: Ellipse 5
The Ellipse 5 (pictured right), rather than a
cylinder, is more of an ellipse shape as the
name implies. It’s a bit flatter and looks
more like some kind of cosmetic device
than a vape pen, so it’s a bit more stealthy
than other pens. Two of our testers had
been using this vape pen every day for a few
months when we started testing the other
pens, and so they were a benchmark with
which to judge the others.
http://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=zeIlKYEs5HE
Overall, the testers like the look and feel of the Chosen Vape. It
certainly did a much better job vaping concentrates than herb. But the
number of parts and the confusing manual were big drawbacks. The
Chosen Vape notified us before shipping out the sample pens that the
manual was getting a rewrite, so that may no longer be an issue.
Pros:
Cons:
Nice color and style
Great for concentrates
Digital display of battery power
and tokes taken
Slightly Stoopid logo (unless you
like the band)
Small hard to see button
Confusing manual
Too many parts
Larger than other vapes
Failed herb vape test
Expensive!
The Ellipse 5 is sold in various colors and
configurations, but it’s a simple device, easy
to load and use. It’s well built and seems
to last at least a few days on one charge.
The Ellipse vape pen is a bit cheaper than
the others and is a good choice if you can
find it. One of the testers went back to his
Ellipse pen even though he really liked the
Gentleman’s Vape Viceroy pen. The other
tester continued to use the Chosen Vape Pen
as his Ellipse pen had pretty much stopped
working after months of heavy daily use.
BHO Safety
aka "Please don't immolate or blow yourself up!"
Gray Wolf has long been concerned about the BHO craze, and the
safety issues surrounding its use at home by newbies and amateurs.
His tips contribute to harm reduction, and may even save a few lives.
International Cannagraphic
A house exploded recently during a butane
honey oil extraction process.
Have you been watching the folks blowing themselves and their homes
up using butane extraction techniques, thus leading you to believe that
such an attempt is suicidal?
Thank God (Great Spirit) that paying attention to details reduces the
odds to limits that you might embrace, after being thus enlightened.
May we discuss, before you give up all BHO extraction attempts in
deference to your family and home?
Clearly Butane is inflammable and can be explosive, if confined in a
small space and supplied with about 1.86 to 8.41 percent butane to
atmospheric air content and an ignition source.
In addition, ignition can come from a number of different unexpected
sources, so let's discuss that issue.
For starters, I never attempt a butane extraction indoors or in any
confined space! None at all, zero, zip, forget about it! It is important to
keep it below explosive limits!
I do it all outdoors, with a non sparking plastic fan blowing, not
sucking, the butane evaporation away! Butane loves self abuse and
will clump together and pool, being that it is
heavier than air.
I use three fans to keep any free butane dispersed below ignition limits
of 1.86% and prevent it from pooling and accumulating in low spots,
like through my basement window and into my basement, which is
chock full of ignition sources.
The point is that the concentration of the butane boiling off can be kept
diluted below combustion limits, by blowing the accumulating vapors
away using a fan.
Secondly, let's talk about stupid ignition sources. Despite previous
discussions, I have had to literally grab the hands of cigarette smokers
poised to light a cigarette while extracting. What can I say about
addicts who go on automatic pilot and forget where they are? Leave
your cigarettes and lighter elsewhere!
International Cannagraphic
Unless it is an explosion-proof fan, always blow, instead of sucking
vapors away, not only for efficiency reasons, but because the sparks
from an electric motor slip ring can ignite the vapors.
Always use plastic or other spark proof blades, because a grain of
sand can spark when hitting a steel blade, and be propelled into the
concentrated vapors.
Always keep a fully charged and recently inspected fire extinguisher
on hand. Luckily, I never had to use one at home, though I have in
industry. They can't be beaten when they are called for!
If you get inadvertently sprayed with butane, stop, and go change
clothes. Immolating oneself, as I see it, is highly overrated!
Firemen respond to an ever increasing number of fires and injuries
caused by the manufacture of BHO. Extraction using butane or other
inflammable solvents is a dangerous process, made more dangerous
without technical knowledge and appropriate safety precautions!
Lose the lighter, cigarettes and bong if you are an addict! Once the pin
is pulled on a 5 second grenade, it is not your friend!
All pretty simple, but lets talk about subtleties! How about sparks?
Simply dragging your feet on concrete, if you have gravel stuck in
your shoes, can create a spark.
Wearing plastic clothing, especially socks,
can also build up and discharge a static
electricity spark.
Keep a blanket on hand, and if you do unexpectedly ignite,
immediately wrap yourself in it to extinguish the flames.
The good news is that none of the above has ever happened to me, but
then I pay close attention and try my very best to avoid those hazards.
Some good questions to ask before you begin using solvents:
Since ignition sources are a key issue, are there any furnaces, or hot
water tanks in the garage?
Can un-dispersed butane pool or accumulate at a lower elevation, like
the crawl space or basement? Any ignition sources there?
I deeply understand privacy, and use a popup canopy in the rear
courtyard to shield my operation from the second story windows of
adjoining neighbors. I also use a fan to keep the fumes away from my
kitchen doorway and basement window,
I cut a hole though the bottom of the courtyard gate, and installed a
centrifugal blower to constantly evacuate the courtyard at ground level
when I am extracting.
International Cannagraphic
In my simple minded dotage, I have come to realize that sometimes
shit happens, but not very often to the observant and prepared, as
opposed to the oblivious and uncaring.
Best to look around your setup first, and eliminate any obvious sources
of disaster. Then prepare yourself for the very worst, if you are going
to handle inflammables.
Without them civilization would be without fire in the pre stone age,
and it is by our controlling their capabilities, in concert with paying
close attention when using them, that we have tamed them to our
bidding.
On the one side they nourish our very own evolution and on the other
side, you must be very careful when using them, to remain in the gene
pool.
After minimizing my liability, I often set off my worst nightmare by
igniting a boiling pot of solvent, just to see what really happens.
Not all that exciting with ethanol, but more so with Isopropyl and
Methanol, and even more exciting with butane.
I never do that in an area that I am not confident will survive the
possible air burst concussion and flames, so may I suggest that you
use that as your standard when you select your extraction location and
ventilation setup?
Ask yourself, what is the very worst thing
that could happen, and how can you
Good ventilation is essential! Fans dilute fumes and blow them away
from extraction area, away from possible ignition sources and people
too.
gracefully walk away from it without blowing anything up, or burning
it down?
For those whom question just how bad it is, check out the 19 page of
this IC Mag thread starting at: https://www.icmag.com/ic/showthread.
php?t=266761.
A personal salute to IC Mag and the brothers and sisters who have
taken the time to search out and record this info, posting it on IC Mag,
to spread the awareness. Thank all of ya’ll who’ve posted data on it,
and saved me hours of effort.
International Cannagraphic
The call to arms is three fold:
Educate, educate, educate the noobes; in this we are our brothers
keeper. They will listen to us before the general authority figures,
because those same authority figures already told them that if they
played with themselves they would go blind and crazy, not have sexual
intercourse outside marriage, and that marijuana was a Class III drug,
with no medical benefits. You can see how that has played out.
Educate the public, so that they realize that we are all not pariah
outlaw cowboys, indiscriminately blowing people and property up.
Educate both groups that BHO is also extracted using safer and more
environmentally friendly closed circuit extraction and recycle systems.
Vacuum purge setup built by Gray Wolf.
Sooooooooooo, enough is enough, this is a call to arms against
BHOtardisim, to stop the insanity and proactively avoid a wide
pendulum swing reaction to the growing carnage, from our detractors
and the general public, in the form of draconian laws that we won’t
like.
My thoughts are that if we don’t somehow educate both our members
and the general public, and do all that we can to bring this thing under
some semblance of control, that the control option will be exercised by
others and we won’t like the new laws that they come up with.
We can educate and save the ignorant ones, and maybe not be painted
with the same brush by as large a portion of the rest of our brothers
and sisters.
BHOtardisim is hereafter to be defined as follows:
Read more about this here:
Archaic: An epithet coined by BHO detractors as a taunt.
https://www.icmag.com/ic/showthread.php?t=212613
Current: A mental deficiency leading the afflicted narcissistic
sociopath to discount all input from others and
open extract using butane indoors, or in
a hap hazard manner, so as to endanger
themselves, other life, and property.
And here:
https://www.icmag.com/ic/showthread.php?t=266761
International Cannagraphic
PHOTO OF THE YEAR 2013
Kangativa - Hmong Thai
Photo of the Month
December 2013
MightyKA
Photo of the Month
February 2014
BonzaiBob
Photo Of The Month
January 2014
Zomboweed - OGChem
Photo Of The Month
March 2014
Phate - CherryOG BHO
INTERNATIONAL
CANNAGRAPHIC
International Cannagraphic
PHOTO CONTEST
WINNERS
International Cannagraphic
The Best Threads of ICMag
10 Years of the International Cannagraphic has brought an amazing amount of knowledge to growers. Recently we asked for nominations to a list of
"The Best of ICMag," and here are the results! Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate their favorite threads, for whatever reason.
The list is in chronological order by year, and clicking on the underlined title will bring you to the actual thread on the website, if you are connected
to the Internet.
2004
2005
Hello.....Good Evening and Welcome!
IC is boring as shit!!
ICMag's very first thread, a welcome message from the site's founder,
Gypsy Nirvana.
HundredGramOz really enjoyed this thread created by Soquick from
way back in 2004.
Chanting Growers Group
The Complete Guide to Sick Plants, pH and Pest
troubles!
This thread has brought continued good luck to the site and its many
diverse members.
Photo Of The Month Archive
Smurf nominated this thread with 10 yrs of incredible images, cannabis
in all her forms. Many thanks to MyAssIsGrass for keeping this
together for the last decade!
Wizoo has nominated this thread created by MyNameStitch, who
brought us one of the most helpful threads in the Cannabis Infirmary.
TAG - Landing (Resource for True Aero Growing)
GuineaPig suggested Pod Racer's amazing thread about true aero
growing:
International Cannagraphic
Reibsi`s Ganga Gardens 2005
Babbabud reminded us of this wonderful thread by an outdoor grower
in Canada.
Inspirational Hash Shots, please put yours here.
(A TRIBUTE TO OVERGROW.COM)
Smurf nominated Bubbleman's classic thread...
2006
How this site works......
Messn'n'gommin' nominated this thread started by the founder, looking
back at the first two years of the Cannagraphic website and magazine.
Organic Fanatic Collective Growers Forums >
Organic Soil
Smurf nominated this ongoing thread about the basics.
150w HPS Club and Resource Guide
Imported (Moroccan, Afghani, Nepalase)
This thread is a continuation of the classic original from Overgrow.
Started by Pipedream, the thread is still an active area for those
interested in stealthy cabinet growing, or just small-scale.
Hash photo's and discussion....
ICMAG'S OFFICIAL ~DIY~ LINK-O-RAMA
VonBudí offers this thread dedicated to all DIY (Do It Yourself)
projects and tutorials posted by ICMAG members.
Another nomination from Smurf! Paolo made sure to remind us of this
thread with blocks of hashish, big blocks. And more!
Wanna Ask The Old Farts A Question?
Rolling along since 2006 helping growers!
Plants & Budshots from the Mandolino Country
The Devil says don't forget this one: Wamen's classic, a grower's
thread from Italy.
Revival of the Ultimate Sativa Thread
Motaco's RUST is amazing...also nomated bbyThe Devil.
International Cannagraphic
2007
H3ad goes Coco
The Highland Oaxaca Gold Thread
Watts suggested this thread from '07.
S_a_H thinks this thread of Mr. Alkaline's is important.
Project EDEN - the COCO-COOP
EXTRAordinarily colorful herbs
Hush reminds us of the brightest of the brightest of colors, bud-wise.
BHO for dummies
TickleMyBalls says "it's been eight years, and still running... started by
ChiefSmokingBud - one of my main inspirations to start making hash
and BHO."
Outdoor Afghani 2006
Babbabud says check this out!
Free your budshots
BroughtSuperior says this is "one of my
favorites!"
Paolo says "I see that Bonecarver_OG is still knee deep in coco, and
dubstepping!"
Shmoe Gardens..
GuineaPig says this grow diary is legendary!
Compact SOG with CFL's....**3/4 to 2.25OZ's per
WEEK**
GuineaPig says "way ahead of his time, this fellow makes
microgrowing look seriously fun."
Organics for Beginners by BurnOne
Yortbogey states "It all started here..."
International Cannagraphic
Yayyy! My first colloidal silver generator for
making feminised seeds - DIY Guide
Nominated by Jump17
Question for Sam the Skunkman on the original
haze
BigHerb says this is the most informative Original Haze thread on the
net.
2008
The Landrace Indica thread [Hush]
This is IT, the ultimate landrace thread begun by the HashAssassin.
FREEZERBOY'S DESTROYER on Ice - 250 CMH
Freezer Grow
Excellent exmple of cabinet growing, and this use of a freezer is truly
awesome.
The Official Hempy Bucket Thread
Highly influential for many growers... a real classic from 2008, still
active.
BIG GROW! SOG
HGO says this is another thread that I really
enjoyed reading, which was started by
member Stoney419.
2009
Let's see your frostiest bud!!
[SeedsOfFreedom]
Awesome thread still active after all these years...
A Complete Guide to Topping, Training and
Pruning by Kodiak
Explosiv says this has to be one of the most helpful threads ever made.
A great thread, put together by Kodiac. I can't remember how many
times I linked the thread to people and they thanked me for it.
The growing large plants, outdoors, thread...
Tom Hill's forum - [Smurf]
International Cannagraphic
Vintage Cannabis photography - [bigherb]
Flash trip to Morocco
This thread is a blast from the past a look back into time with great info
and eye candy.
Nominated by hayday, an adventure in Morocco from Paulo73.
Absolute Amber from Banana Silver Ladyboys
[GrayWolf]
2011
A perfect cure every time
Winterizing BHO to produce Absolutes, Jump 117's thread is one of the
first threads on any forum on the subject.
The CannaBunker Begins
2010
2012
World on a String [Paolo]
GS Cookies
The Pablos show how to live life in style...
Nominated by Yortbogey.
Kangativa´s Mullumbimby Madness Grow [Paolo]
Keepin' It Super Simple (K.I.S.S stylee!) [Hush]
The legendary HUGE plants thread from down under...
HumboldtLocals Outdoor 2010
in Cannabis Growing Outdoors forums
BHO Lovers:
[TickleMyBalls]
2013
UncleFishStick's Bicycle Repair Thread
Nominated by Yortbogey.
Things I have learned from ICMAG...
This thread has some fascinating tidbits about why people love ICMag.
International Cannagraphic
What Have You Learned
From ICMag?
This story is compiled from Cannagraphers of the
International Cannagraphic.
Edited by Payaso
Eighths-n-Aces
Growing ain't rocket surgery unless you are trying
to learn it from the sharpest crayon in the drawer.
Lost In A Sea
For one thing, a huge amount of opinions on
different ganja genetics which is one of the most
priceless things about the internet for any breeders
or searchers of any genetic material.
I have also learned much better how to enjoy
helping people and spreading information.
Probably how to control my temper better as well, and without a doubt
I’ve learned to type faster and communicate better and more concisely
which will come in handy in so many ways.
I’ve also loved learning a shit load about all great people from different
countries around this little blue jewel.
Castout - The Coco Cutie
Weezard - the Hawaiian Inebriatti
I have learned to dive for pearls amidst the garbage
and the flowers.
And, there are still some damn fine people on this
planet.
I have learned, and finally understood the word
“community”...a place where even though people
have their differences, we are all the same...we are
all growers.
Also I learned that IC is like the mob.....you can never leave the life!
GeorgeSmiley
Things ain't what they used to be.
International Cannagraphic
Weird - 3rd Eye Jedi
I have learned that the prohibition era weed
movement was a bit like the underground railroad,
in that a bunch of like-minded Americans had
a similar notion that there was something more
that this plant had to offer than the potential of
prosecution could suppress.
Anonymousgrow
Anyone who knows much of anything,
knows that they know very little...
There is something different about pot.
I like to use the drug versus medicine analogy.
Medicines heal, they offer more benefit than detriment.
Drugs don’t heal, they offer more detriment than benefit.
Of course there are shades of gray but you get my point.
Skullznroses
Chucking pollen ain’t for kids...but sometimes it
is.
I could have made so much more money slanging powders and
chemicals, and its a much better risk reward ratio.
Popping seeds is like breakin gold records...except when they suck.
I think it is one of the last natural remedies that can break and restore
people after the ravages of chemical slavery from substances like
heroin.
Organic is the way to go...all the time.
But mostly I learned that I am like a chatty cathy doll but I pull my
own string!
Philosophy isn’t all bullshit...but it really is.
Trichrider
If it ain’t broke, you’ll know nothing about it.
What I learned is that I’ve been criminally
unaware by golly, and that some digital
voyeurism examining profundities whittled my world view to a fine
point, which I use to poke at the bubbles of deception.
ICMag is the portal to another dimension.
DamnUglyDogE
My most important lesson EVER leaned on
ICMAG is...
Good Vibes are Contagious!
International Cannagraphic
Jahrastafareye
That the bane of my existence is called “root
aphids.”
Crusader Rabbit
To be honest, I once thought I knew something
about growing pot, but I’d been wandering alone
in the wilderness. The ICMag community helped
me up my game in a big big way.
Oh, and if you haven’t done so people, read
through the archives.
Left:
Girl Scout
Cookies
Photo by
miscbrah3284
International Cannagraphic
Guerilllataktic
1) I have learned to stay away from ‘know-italls,’ online and in real life. Some people have an
answer about everything, and some threads are a
magnet for trolls wanting to argue about anything.
My advice: shut up and read! Take the cotton out of your ears and stuff
it in your mouth!
2) There is no single right way to achieve something. Many roads can
arrive at the same destination.
3) There is always someone, or something better ahead.
Dddaver
No matter what you ask about anything, there
are always going to be conflicting “opinions.” I
also have learned there are a lot of folks out there
who know what’s better for me than myself. I am
absolutely amazed sometimes.
But that said, I have also learned there are many
like minded people that just want life to get better out there for
everyone.
Mr.Fastcast
That you truly can find good and decent people
here. The knowledge on this site is second to none.
Red Rider
I learned many things here, but most importantly
is that I learned how to grow the best weed in the
world! Thanks ICMag!
DU420
I’ve learned that there is a far better natural
alternative to the so called “medicines” prescribed
by doctors, that are derived from poisonous
chemicals that destroy you from the inside out.
I’ve also learned how to produce real medicine!
Stoner4Life
You can pick your friends, and you can pick your
buds, but you can’t pick your friends buds.
International Cannagraphic
OrganicOzarks
ICMAG is hands down the best cannabis forum.
I owe all that I have learned to ICMAG. I am
isolated with no one that actually knows how to
grow a plant anywhere near me. If it were not
for this forum I would have thrown in the towel
long ago. That being said ICMAG coupled with ACTUAL gardening
books, studies, magazines, etc. can make you a great grower. ICMAG
is a great place to start with a tidbit of info, that you can then go and
investigate further on your own.
MagniKhan
KISS - Keep It Super Simple. Less IS more
I can have feelings for a plant.
An unattended hose will always overflow. Always
have a wet vac on stand by at the ready, NO
MATTER how long it’s been since a major spill/
leak.
I know shit (and I’m not even an Organic grower).
Let my ph drift.
Clearcutter
I learned I have a lot to learn.
Spread the knowledge and the Love...
Read more, even if it’s not your growing style, you never know when
you’ll pick something up that will make a difference in your grow!
Draco
Talktosamson
Respect..I have never stopped learning from this
site. Bog and Rez taught me how to do the dam
thing years ago on here and this is where I choose
to share my knowlege and legacy. And, that giving
someone broad mites, is far worse than giving
someone herpes.
Over time, one gets to know some of the
competent growers here; we get to see their work
and read their wisdom...
I learned to grow while reading these forums. Still
learning every day, and grateful to have the experience of the ‘experts’
at my fingertips...
Thanks to everybody who shares their knowledge on ICMAG!
International Cannagraphic
Hush
I just found this thread because I wanted to create a
new thread proclaiming how much I love it here and
how grateful I am for all the things I’ve learned over
the years... but then I saw this thread and thought,
why create a new one, this one’s good enough!
Darkhorse
Anyhoo...
ICMag also inspired me to take a recognised
qualification course in Horticulture.
I just want to publicly announce how helpful these forums have been
to me over the years. I’ve been here ever since OG sank, although
I’ve gone through several user names before this one. I have never
had a bad experience here. There was this one troll who bugged me at
one point, and I had to put him on ignore, but that was literally ONE
isolated instance. Other than that, my experience here has been nothing
but positive, helpful, educating, entertaining, and all around pleasant.
I have learned to watch who I am talking to, keep
pictures off phones, don’t post from your location
(security).
Yortbogey
What I have learned is what we give to the place is
just as important as what we take from this place.
Thank you, to all of you who contribute knowledge to the ones who
have less experience than you do. Thank you.
Caregiver
Crooked8
I have learned that the gpw goal, with any strain of
real worth, is a true challenge.
What have I learned
from ICMag?
Everything!
International Cannagraphic
Extracting With Oils and Fats
Sublingual oil tinctures:
Cannabinoids and the other terpenes in cannabis, are readily
dissolvable in fats and oils, so fats and oils may be used for both
extraction and as a menstruum.
Aside from their useful role in extraction, oils and fats may be mixed
at any ratios with cannabis terpenes, if you are just mixing them
together as oils. Some of them are damn tasty even taken from a
dropper, though as the concentration increases, the flavor becomes less
fetching and it leaves more of a lingering aftertaste.
by Gray Wolf
When I say fats and oils, I am referring to the vegetable and nut oils, as
well as clarified butter. Oils tasty enough that they can be ingested with
a dropper, mixed with drinks, or used in medibles.
One of the advantages of using oil for extractions is that they are for
the most part, non soluble in water, so they don't extract excessive
water soluble constitutes, like chlorophyll.
There are practical limits to the potency that can be achieved extracting
with oil, because as the oil becomes saturated with cannabis terpenes,
it becomes less concentrated and the solvent action slows down to a
crawl, before stopping altogether.
Potency can be ratcheted up somewhat by using the same oil to do
multiple extractions of fresh material, but even that has limitations.
A key factor in achieving maximum removal rates and efficiency, is
removing the boundary layer between the un-dissolved resins and the
unsaturated oils used for extraction. The method that we used in this
experiment, was simple, but thorough periodic stirring.
Choose an Oil:
We haven't tried them
all, but we have tried
Almond, Avocado,
Butter, Canola, Coconut
oil, Grape Seed oil,
Olive, Pecan, Sesame,
and Walnut oils. They
all work well, so they
are a good place to
start, if you are new to extraction.
Preparing the material:
We first start by drying the trim. For
the most floral flavor and the highest
amount of lighter terpenes, material
that is hung up until it reaches the
small stem snap stage is best for our
purposes.
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In our experience, for best flavor and taste, the freshest material works
best. Older cured material loses the nuances of the floral undertones
and just tastes like hash.
we studiously avoid adding water and our Ghee extraction has only the
lightest tinge of green and no chlorophyll flavor.
That means that the degree of drying and curing is also critical, if your
goal is to maintain maximum terpene content. Not that hash has a bad
flavor, but it should be a conscious choice.
In this experiment, we didn't attempt to reach maximum saturation,
but to determine what was reasonable to expect from a single batch.
To reach maximum saturation, we would have simply processed more
than one batch of fresh material through the oil.
Choosing material:
Oil from buds is tastier than oil from even sugar trim, because most of
the terpenes are produced by the buds, and that is where they are the
most plentiful. Tasty is usually not a word used to describe oil from fan
leaves or stems, though it may be effective.
The material that we used in this experiment, was donated sweet trim
from Chocolate that was well dried and cured.
Oils used in this experiment:
We used Ghee (clarified butter), Coconut oil, Grape Seed oil, and
Olive oil for the run, because they are commonly available and not
very expensive.
Making Ghee:
To make the Ghee, we melted unsalted butter and cooked it at low
temperature, until the butter fats separated from the Ghee. We then
skimmed off the floating butter fats, and sucked off the Ghee, using a
turkey baster, leaving the heavier butter fats in the bottom of the pot.
Most recipes for extraction with butter call for
boiling the material in water and butter, but
We filled four jars 3/4 full of the trim and then added enough oil to
cover it, stirred it thoroughly, and then added another inch of oil.
Then we lightly capped the jars and set them in a pot of hot water and
simmered it on low for six hours, uncapping and stirring thoroughly a
couple of times an hour.
At the end of six hours, we removed the jars from the hot water and
set them aside to cool. The next day, we cooked them two more hours,
stirring regularly, and the third day we cooked them another six hours,
for 14 hours total, with three heat cycles.
Lightly capping means snug
enough to allow some pressure
to build, but loose enough to vent
off anything excessive. Since we
used cured material and didn't
add water, there was little in the
way of volatiles to boil off and
produce pressure.
I left the lid off the boiling pot,
so as to not force steam into the
jar head space.
For pressing, we warmed the oils and ghee up by placing them in
boiling water, this time with the lids on tight and the lid on the pot.
Next we cut up some rags from some surplus drape material, with
approximately a 160/200 thread count, and draped it over a restaurant
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sized potato ricer that we scored at Hongs Restaurant Supply in
Portland. By pressing it down into the potato ricer, it formed a
pocket that holds approximately a quart of plant material.
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Folding the cloth over and pressing it, produced
a pristine clear oil, which was tasty enough to
dropper.
The most flavorful, was the ghee. It seemed the
fastest to uptake and produce an effect. Alas,
after testing just enough of each of them to
determine their flavors, I needed a nap.
The next phase of this project, is to titrate for
potency and effect, as well as flavor, using
volunteer test panels.
Visit the original thread
on ICMag.com to read all
the comments and more
about these methods of
extracting THC for medical or
recreational use.
Much more research is going
on at Gray Wolf's place,
skunkpharmresearch.com.
Above are the extractions from the refrigerator, where they were stored between cooking and actual pressing. The
butter, olive oil, and the coconut extractions have a slight green tinge, yet none actually had a chlorophyll flavor.
LET’S LIVE THE
STEREOTYPE:
International Cannagraphic
The irony of the stressed out grower.
by Green Path
I look back on my growing experiences, recalling at some
points having shelves full of bottles. In a quest to grow
the best plants, my collection expanded, as if I didn’t have
enough. It grew from listening to online members.
I was surrounded by myriads of measuring devices ranging
from kitchen spoons to dropper bottles, some measuring
down to .1 ml! That’s how far I took growing at one point.
Under the spell of the 'more is better mentality', I believed
that more in would mean more out.
At some point you have to let some of that control go, and
give it back to Mother Nature. She has been around far longer
than us, and has been growing plants with picture perfect
leaves and flowers and fruit without the aid of humans.
Switching back to organic nutrients is the right path.
After awhile sitting with the plants, I was hit with a clarity
I have never been able to experience while running around
trying to get my plant to look good, and babying them to
perform their best. The idea that Mother Nature is far more
intelligent then I could ever be, rang
through my head. This whole time
I was trying harder, using more
Photos by Green Path
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created this idealogy that the plant cannot help itself, without us the
plant would not be what it is. I feel this is a bad mentality to nurture,
as we are not respecting that the plant is a life form of its own, thus
we should acknowledge it has been here long before us, it must know
what it’s doing and must do it very well to have survived and or have
grown alongside humans this long.
products and spending more energy in an attempt to create what was
now in front of my eyes.
From here on out I knew who half the work should go to, the plant.
See I think in an attempt to try and control the plant, we are actually
taking away that energy from the plant. We must open up to working
along side them, if we are to have a respectful relationship with the
plant. It is not only us in the grow rooms, and I think we need to
acknowledge that more. It is actually quite
undermining to believe we need to ‘take care
of the plant’ or ‘baby it’, in return we have
That test plant tent, has led me to further play with simplicity and just
how far I can get with very little. I have brought that simple knowledge
into every grow I do now, coupled with that idea of giving up some
control to let the plant do its side of the work. In all reality, all I can
tell you I do is give water and nutrients to the plant, I don’t do much
more than that, as when we let go, we can open up to the realm of
more. My plants are doing better than ever, they are growing very
nicely and I can tell you I have been freed up from worry, time and
energy. I took this knowledge to my outdoor plants too. I have done
things like one top dressing of a couple ingredients to planting plants
in nothing but chicken poop! it works, works well and the plants say
they love it with their growth. But what I have learned more from this
then the power of simplicity, is that my relationship changed with
the plants when I brought them to this level of respect, to allow them
to be themselves, strong with their own life force at work and not
being looked at, as something that is helpless and can’t take care of
itself without me. Yes the plant needs water and nutrition to survive,
and could not get that living in a pot indoors. I provide it that, and it
provides me the harvest at the end of its cycle. I find this relationship
to be far more rewarding then past thinking which was, I was the one
doing all the work, so I was the one responsible for all the reward.
The main benefit from this I can tell you, which I am sure you will
agree with me is, enjoying the plant. Isn’t that why we’re growing in
the first place, to actually enjoy what we’re doing? I now walk into my
rooms every day with a smile and a relaxed attitude, allowing me to
enjoy my time with the plants, and not stressing out who needs what
or what is wrong needing attention, or what can I do to make things
better. I now enjoy my time with them like I never have and that has
opened up my relationship with this plant to a whole new level you
cannot do when you’re worried about this or that trying to grow the
perfect plant, or having that mentality of superiority over the plant. I
realize it comes when you are open and relaxed and bring that right
mentality into the grow room, which I think can be done no easier than
not trying to be perfect anymore.
Can I tell you these plants will win photo of the month? No they might
not. Is the solution your giving them the perfect ratio of Ca to Mg,
maybe not, but how do you judge your time growing? my version is
whoever is having the best time, which I can tell you I feel I am living
that with this method.
If you’re getting tired of mixing loads of bottles in an attempt to get
the perfect plant, if you would like to save some money, if you know
something else you would like to be doing with your time, if you want
to connect with the plant and enjoy them more, or grow a better plant,
I urge you to open to the idea of simplicity, while allowing the plant to
do what it does best.
International Cannagraphic
Am I saying the above mentioned and myriads of bottles
don’t work, no I’m not saying that, and every day there
is more research being done on these products and the
functions it plays in the plant.. I am saying though I have
found simplicity to be a key in great plant growth as well
as freeing your mind from stress related to growing, while
absolutely being free and can be done anytime you’re
ready for that change. You can read into the mechanics
International Cannagraphic
and science of plant functions if you like to, I choose to leave that a mystery
and enjoy just co-existing with Mother Nature. Next time you visit your garden
I hope you bring some of these ideas to your setup and enjoy the mentioned
benefits along with some stress free quality time with your plants. Your free to
do as you like, but if your method is not working 100% for you in a positive way,
I say let’s live the stereotype, laid back pot grower!
HONEY SLIDES
...quick and easy!
International Cannagraphic
Hmm, really? Probably a bit overstated, but I’ll try it.
from CookedCook
Unlike Neil, I didn’t have a pound lying around. But fortunately also
unlike Neil, it was good grass, not cheap grass!
First...the easy recipe:
So my friend and I set out to replicate this on a smaller scale. We
ground up a few grams total of good bud. We just ground it through
a metal kitchen strainer. We sauteed this with some butter (2
tablespoons) in a small pan just until we started to smell it. We then
stirred in about 2 tablespoons of honey. I chose to use the natural comb
honey, just because a friend who’s dad kept bees swore that the natural
unprocessed honey had it’s own euphoria...and besides, it tastes good.
Sautee 1 gram finely ground cannabis in butter until infused (wait for
the smell...you’ll know when) and remove from heat.
Add two tablespoons natural comb honey, mix well.
Pour into short glass, cool down until room temp or less, and add one
more tablespoon of honey.
Get your favorite spoon, and... enjoy!
It’s quick, easy, and tasty. No serious cooking skills required to get that
medicine delivered ASAP!
...and now the blah blah behind the recipe...
I was reading one of the many issues of reefer porn I have around
here, when I saw this small piece on Neil Young. It had to do with the
recording of his album "On the Beach." It said that during the lengthy
recording sessions, one of the band member’s wife used to take a
pound of cheap grass, cook it in a big skillet until it smoked, making
the whole studio smell like a pot farm, and then they’d mix in honey.
One of the quotes was something like “you took a couple spoonfulls of
this cowshit and you were catatonic. The high was more debilatating
than heroin.”
It is the wax in the honey that absorbs the THC from the grass.
We then pulled it off the stove, and poured the still hot mixture into 2
short glasses. We waited for it to cool down a bit, and then stirred in 1
more TBL of honey (just to keep that nice fresh honey taste on top...
trying to avoid Neil’s “cowshit” taste.)
When it was totally cooled, but still
somewhat fluid, we spooned it into our
mouths and within an hour, I could
definitely feel it kicking in.
The great part was it kept me nicely
toasted for about 4 hours. NICE!
Next time around I will use more
grass.
Quick, easy, tasty, effective. Enjoy!
International Cannagraphic
Rice Trippy
Treats
from Hash Zeppelin
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: The Misty
Mountains
My friend made some rice
crispy treats out of different
types of 'fruit pebbles.' We
used 3 heaping tablespoons
of full melt hash with 3 sticks
of butter.
Otherwise, make the
trippy treats the same
way you make regular
'rice crispy' treats.
In large deep, heavy
saucepan melt butter
over low heat, add hash
and heat and saute for
about five minutes at
low heat.
Add a bag of marshmallows, and another four
cups of mini-marshmallows, then stir until
completely melted. Remove from heat.
Add 6 cups fruit pebbles or rice crispy
cereal. Stir until well coated.
Press the mixture into a large (13 x 9
x 2 inch) buttered pan.
Cool, then cut into whatever size
pieces you want.
These go great with hot cocoa!