Many people often have questions about the different ways cannabis is measured and sold. One of the most common and somewhat confusing terms you may encounter is an “eighth.”
This term often pops up in dispensaries along with questions such as what exactly is it, how much weed is it, and why is it called an eighth. There are also common misconceptions, like thinking an eighth refers to a number of buds or a specific type of cannabis—which isn’t the case.
The most straightforward explanation is that eighth is a term that originates from the standard measurement of weed, which is typically done in ounces. An ounce of cannabis is equivalent to about 28 grams. An eight refers to one-eighth of that ounce. Therefore, when you buy an eighth of weed, you’re purchasing 3.5 grams.
Confusing? Well, then, read further to understand more about this term and get a hold of an important cannabis knowledge.
When you hear someone talking about an “eighth of weed,” they’re referring to a specific amount of cannabis. It’s like ordering a certain size of coffee at your favorite cafe. An eight is short-hand for one-eighth of an ounce of weed, which translates to 3.5 grams. In perspective, a penny weighs about 3 grams, so an eight is just a tad heavier than a penny.
Just as you would choose between a small, medium, or large coffee, when buying weed, you often select pre-determined amounts like one gram, an eight, a half, or an ounce. An eight is one of the standard measurements.
This measurement is particularly popular as an eight offers a sweet spot for many cannabis users. It’s more cost-effective than buying gram by gram, giving you a bit more bang for your buck. Plus, depending on the size of your pipe or bong bowl, an eight can provide you with several uses—typically around seven to ten bowls.
However, the actual size of an eight can vary slightly. Different stains have different densities and moisture content, so some eights might look bigger or smaller. Regardless of these small variations, it’s universally understood as 3.5 grams of weed. Simply, an eighth is a classic choice as it offers a good balance of quantity and price for regular users and those looking to stock up without going overboard.
What Does an Eighth of Weed Look Like?
The appearance of an eighth of weed can be quite varied largely depending on the strain of the cannabis, how it’s been trimmed, and its curing process. Imagine holding a handful of something—that’s about the size of an eight.
However, not all eights look the same. The density of the buds plays a big role. Some strains produce denser, more compact buds, while others have fluffier, airier ones. Hence, a dense bud might look smaller but still weigh the same as a larger, fluffier bud.
The appearance isn’t just about size. The color, texture, and smell of the buds can also vary. This offers clues about the weed’s quality and potency. A high-quality eight will often sparkle with trichomes.
Your eight could consist of a few large buds or several smaller ones. Appearances can be deceiving, so the most accurate way to measure an eight is with a scale. You’ll get the hang of estimating the size over time, but until then, don’t stress too much about it.
How Much Does an Eighth of Weed Cost?
The price of an eight can depend on the strain, quality, and even the location where you’re purchasing it. It generally costs about $25 to $35. However, don’t be surprised if you encounter prices a bit higher or lower, especially depending on the quality and brand.
The cost can also be influenced by how long weed has been legal in your state and the local market conditions. In California where the cannabis market is well-established, you might find eights between $33 and $44. Meanwhile, states like Florida and Massachusetts have hovering cannabis prices around $48 on average because the market is still emerging.
Gram prices can range from $15 to $20, so buying the equivalent of eight in grams could cost you $70. Going for an eight can save you more on cash especially if you’re planning to enjoy more than just a gram. This option is clearly more cost-effective. You’ll even find more cost-effective and quality choices when you shop with Greenstone.
How Long Does an Eighth of Weed Last?
How long an eighth of weed lasts really depends on your personal smoking habits. An eight is about 3.5 grams, and the longevity of this amount can vary from one person to another. If you’re the kind of smoker who enjoys a small joint or a blunt a day, an eight could comfortably last you the entire week. However, for more frequent users or those who prefer heavier consumption, an eight might only last a few days,
To give you a better idea, let’s break it down a bit. If you’re someone who smokes gram blunts, an eight could be the perfect amount for a weekend—more so if you’re sharing with a friend or two. On the flip side, if you’re more into bongs or bowls, you might find your eight stretching even further. A typical bowl might hold a gram or less. Hence, as mentioned above, you could pack your bowl over ten times with an eight.
Again, it all boils down to how often and how much you smoke. For a casual smoker, expect up to two weeks of longevity. But for a regular daily joint smoker, it might be gone by the end of the weekend.
Difference Between an Eighth and a Quarter of Weed?
An eight refers to one-eighth of an ounce, approximately 3.5 grams. On the other hand, a quarter refers to one-quarter of an ounce, which doubles the amount to about 7 grams.
Hence, when you choose an eight, you’re getting a smaller quantity—suitable for casual or less frequent use. In contrast, opting for a quarter gives you more weed—convenient for regular users who prefer to stock up less frequently. Your choice between the two typically depends on your usage habits, preferences, and how much you’re willing to spend at a time.
Can Consuming an Eighth of Weed Get You High?
Absolutely. The intensity and duration of the high can depend on several factors, including the strain of cannabis, your personal tolerance, and how you consume it.
For someone new and with a lower tolerance, an eight can last several sessions and provide a consistent and manageable high each time. On the other hand, for more experienced users or those with higher tolerance, an eight might be consumed more quickly and can help you achieve a desired level of high.
To learn more about this as well as how to have a better cannabis experience, you can read further “How to Get Higher by Smoking Weed.“
In Conclusion…
An eighth is a standard, practical measure for buying cannabis. It offers a balance between affordability and quantity that’s why it’s a popular choice among a wide range of users. This standard and practice measurement helps consumers manage their usage and budget.
Buying in eights can be more cost-effective than purchasing gram by gram, especially for those who don’t consume heavily. It’s a convenient size for many users, and it’s enough to enjoy several sessions without the commitment of a larger, potentially more expensive amount.
