When entering the world of marijuana (whether buying from a dispensary, or socializing with friends) - it may seem as though you are learning a new language; you may hear terms such as "eighth", "quarter", or "dub" being used to describe quantities of marijuana - and this can be confusing, especially for those who do not understand what these terms represent.
Don't worry, I have got you covered. The purpose of this guide is to provide an overview of common terms that are used when describing quantities of marijuana, and help you navigate both shopping and socializing with confidence.
The Foundation: The Gram (1/28 of an ounce)
Typically one gram is a single, solid piece of bud — referred to as a “nug” or “dime bag,” or several smaller pieces — or a couple of popcorn-sized nuggets. One gram is the ideal portion size for testing new strains of cannabis, as it is easily contained in the palm of your hand.
One gram is a great test drive for a new strain. With one gram you can create one generously sized joint, or two to three bowls in a pipe. Whether you’re new to cannabis, or simply exploring new options, the gram is a low-risk investment in which to determine whether you enjoy the taste and/or effects of a particular strain without committing to a larger amount.
Although I cannot accurately quantify how many times I have purchased a gram of cannabis based solely upon a strain’s name or its appearance/scent, I can say that I have done so more times than I care to admit. Ultimately, a gram provides a risk-free opportunity to sample a new strain.
The Eighth (3.5 grams | 1/8 of an ounce)
This is likely the most common purchase made by the average cannabis consumer. An eighth is a reasonable amount of cannabis, and is generally sufficient to provide a couple of days’ worth of smoking for one person. At the same time, an eighth is a relatively social amount of cannabis. Thus, an eighth is the amount you would likely purchase to share with friends over a weekend.
In my younger years, purchasing an eighth was a social activity — specifically a Friday night smoking session. While an eighth was never enough to satisfy all of my needs, it provided a good balance between satisfaction and not having too much leftover to worry about.
The Quarter (7 grams | 1/4 of an ounce)
A quarter of an ounce is significantly more than an eighth. While it may seem excessive, it can actually be a very practical and cost-effective option for the frequent consumer. When I purchase a quarter of an ounce, I am demonstrating my confidence in the quality of a particular strain. As such, a quarter of an ounce is a long-term investment in a specific strain — one that I intend to use consistently for at least a couple of weeks.
For example, if I have found a strain that effectively addresses a medical issue, or one that enhances my creativity, I will purchase a quarter of an ounce. As I mentioned earlier, a quarter of an ounce is a far more economical option than purchasing two eighths of the same strain.
The Half Ounce (14 grams | 1/2 of an ounce)
A half-ounce is a significant amount of cannabis — certainly more than I would ever need to smoke alone. However, I do frequently purchase a half-ounce to split with a partner or roommate. Additionally, I often take advantage of discounted pricing when available — especially when the discount equates to a greater savings per gram than purchasing two eighths.
While a half-ounce is certainly more than I personally need, it is also a significant quantity of cannabis that I can store in a large mason jar. As I indicated earlier, when you purchase a half-ounce, you tend to develop a more relaxed attitude toward the consumption of cannabis. You no longer feel compelled to carefully ration each last crumb, as you have a reasonable stockpile to draw upon.
The Gold Standard: The Ounce (28 grams)
An ounce is a benchmark measurement of cannabis. As such, it is considered a complete unit. Depending upon the strain, an ounce of cannabis can appear either as a massive, fluffy pile or as a surprisingly dense brick of sticky, aromatic buds. Regardless of its appearance, an ounce of cannabis requires a significant storage vessel — typically a large mason jar. When you open an ounce of cannabis, the fragrance of the strain immediately wafts throughout the surrounding area.
Purchasing an ounce of cannabis is a definitive statement — one that indicates you are a confident consumer, and that you are committed to using this product. For those who consume cannabis on a consistent basis, or those who wish to create their own edibles/concentrates, an ounce of cannabis is the optimal measurement. When I purchased my first ounce of cannabis, I felt a tremendous sense of accomplishment — as if I had reached a milestone. Purchasing an ounce of cannabis affords the consumer the ability to experiment with various methods of consumption — vaping, rolling, etc. — without the concern of depleting their stash.
Beyond the Ounce: Larger Quantities
While most consumers stick to amounts under an ounce, it's helpful to know the terms for larger quantities, often used by growers and in the legacy market.
- Quarter Pound (QP): 4 ounces (112 grams)
- Half Pound (HP): 8 ounces (224 grams)
- Pound (LB): 16 ounces (448 grams). Note: A pound is 448 grams, but it's often colloquially rounded to 450g or "a pound."
A Final Puff of Perspective
There is no right or wrong measurement. Your preferred measurement of cannabis is the one that meets your needs, your tolerance and your lifestyle. Take your time, start with small amounts, remain curious and do not hesitate to ask your budtender any questions you may have. From a hesitant gram to a confident ounce, the journey of discovery is an exciting one.