You probably know 4/20, the main holiday celebrating cannabis flower. However, if you’ve ever seen “710” in a dispensary, or on your buddy’s Instagram bio, you may be wondering what it is all about. Simply put, 710 is to cannabis concentrates what 4/20 is to flower. 710 is a celebration, a culture, and a form of consumption of cannabis concentrates.
The Origin of 710: It's All in the Numbers
How did 710 come to be? It was originally based on a simple math problem. Turn the number “oil” upside down on a calculator and you’ll get “710.” That’s how directly related 710 is to cannabis oil and concentrates. Although 4/20 (April 20th) is a broader holiday representing all aspects of cannabis, 710 (July 10th) has become a designated holiday specifically for those who enjoy cannabis concentrates.
My own observations of the culture evolving since I began to watch it develop indicate 710 grew out of cannabis forums and discussions at headshops during the early 2010s, roughly parallel to the explosion of new extraction technologies. As cannabis concentrates such as shatter, wax, and live resin became increasingly available and refined, the community naturally created its own unique identity and day to celebrate.
What Does "710 Friendly" Really Mean?
“710 Friendly” is a common phrase used on social media sites, dating sites, and other social platforms. The meaning goes beyond the fact that someone is ok with cannabis use.
A Preference for Potency and Purity
A true meaning of “710 friendly” is an indication that someone is interested in cannabis concentrates, not just someone who enjoys smoking a cannabis flower every now and then. Someone who uses the term “710 Friendly” is typically a cannabis concentrate enthusiast, who values the strong, terpene rich experience that dabbing delivers. They also appreciate the cleanliness of the vapor-based inhalation method of dabbing compared to the smoke produced by combustion.
A Marker of a Certain Lifestyle
Additionally, “710 Friendly” can serve as a subtle way to identify oneself as part of a more modern, tech savvy, and health conscious portion of cannabis users. Many people choose to dab due to the clean, vapor-based inhalation method provided by dabbing vs. the smoke produced by burning cannabis flower. Within my social circle, if someone states they are “710 Friendly,” it’s similar to stating you’re a fine wine drinker rather than drinking a generic beer; both statements reflect a level of sophistication and refinement.
A step-by-step guide to participating in 710
If you’re interested in learning more about 710 Dab Day, but have never tried a cannabis concentrate, here is a safe, and user-friendly guide to help you get started:
Understanding the Problem: Intimidation and Inexperience
Dabbing can appear intimidating. The equipment appears to be a collection of expensive, scientific glassware, and the process requires a blow torch. The two largest obstacles for beginners are the complexity of the process and the extreme effects of cannabis concentrates.
The Solution: A Modern, User-Friendly Approach
Fortunately, technology has made dabbing much easier to access. You don’t need to purchase a full rig and torch setup to begin dabbing.
Step 1: Choose Your Concentrate and Device
Begin by selecting a relatively mild cannabis concentrate, such as a live resin or badder. Live resin and badders provide a robust flavor profile, while having a lower potency rating compared to other concentrates. Instead of purchasing a traditional rig, I would recommend a modern electronic device (e-rig), such as the Puffco Peak, or Dr. Dabber Stella. Electronic devices make dabbing easier and safer to perform by providing a consistent temperature, eliminating the need to light a flame with a torch.
Step 2: Master the Dose
The most important principle when dabbing, particularly for beginners, is low and slow. One good starting point for your first few dabs is to load a small amount of concentrate onto the tip of a dab tool and pull gently on the tool. The initial dose can be as small as a single grain of rice.
Step 3: Inhale Mindfully
Once you have turned on your e-rig and allowed it to heat up, simply take a gentle inhale until you feel a significant amount of vapor enter your lungs. Vaporizing cannabis concentrates produces a very different sensory experience compared to smoking, and is a much better option for many. Wait 5-10 minutes to allow yourself time to assess the effects of your dab, and if needed, consider taking another small dose after waiting. This will enable you to control your dosing and ensure a positive experience.
The Cultural Significance and Future of 710
Cannabis concentrates represent a growing sector of the cannabis industry. The concentration category has grown faster than the flower category in nearly every state where medical marijuana has been legalized, according to data from Headset. This is a cultural representation of the advancement of the cannabis industry, and is a reflection of the growing interest in concentrates that are more potent and pure.
The growing demand for concentrates has resulted in the creation of a distinct and separate sub-culture, represented by the 710 movement. This sub-culture is built upon the love of concentrates, and the passion for the artistry of extraction artists, as well as the science behind terpenes and cannabinoid synergy. As legalization expands across the globe and as extraction technology continues to improve, 710 will grow into a fundamental part of the global cannabis community, serving as a symbol of purity, potency, and the relentless pursuit of the ultimate dab.