Saturday, May 23, 2009

Volcano Vaporizer Review


The Volcano is a shapely, brushed-metal marijuana vaporizer that is made by the German-based company Storz & Bickel. It looks like a little robot and costs about $539 (depending on the model purchased). It is perhaps the most well-known vaporizer on the market, but it is also the most expensive. I often get asked if it is worth the price. My answer is that if you can afford it you should get it, but if you can't, buy the Oxygen Mini.

The Volcano has a reputation that justifies its high price tag. Clinical studies indicate that the Volcano is extremely efficient at extracting THC from cannabis. Some studies suggest the Volcano can extract as much as 80% of the THC content from the plant, which is much higher than the 25% extracted from smoking a typical joint. Extra THC means a more potent "high." Plus, vaporizing doesn't produce the harmful carcinogens that are created by combustion so it is a lot healthier.

You will either love or hate the Volcano, I think. It depends on whether you like the delivery system (which involves inhaling vapors from a filled balloon). It also depends on whether you have enough supply to fill the chamber. The Volcano has a larger chamber than most "vapes." You have to plug the unit into an outlet, so you will be using it primarily indoors. Plus, it is not very portable, so if you do invest in the Volcano, you will need to buy a smaller vape for car trips.

To find out more, visit the Storz & Bickel website: Storz and Bickel