Where to begin... (vaping without having smoked before)

[1Up]

First post here after quite a bit of lurking and searching. Hello everyone!

So to start off, I've never tried cannabis in any capacity whatsoever. Never smoked, eaten, or vaped. Never really had friends that did. I've been doing some research and I've realized that I grew up being told a lot of misinformation about cannabis, and I'm considering giving it a go.

I haven't been able to find much information about using a vaporizer for your very first encounter with cannabis, without a smoking background. Is there anything I should be aware of? Right now I'm still kind of unsure about everything... I just have loose-formed plans about buying a MFLB and a grinder, then trying to track down some herb even though I don't know anyone to get me started in my area. :/

 

[Carbon]

Happy trails man. I don't know the science behind it, perhaps it's something about "warming up" your cannabinoid receptors, but I keep hearing this "I didn't get high the first few times" stuff from a lot of people. I thought it was just because people did it wrong or had bad stuff the first time, but seeing it with my own eyes maybe there's something to it.

 

[HighSti]

but seeing it with my own eyes maybe there's something to it.

I would have to agree. I thought people just werent inhaling but after watching someone who smokes cigarettes smoke weed the first time, they didnt notice anything significant. With most though, it seems to take about one or two shots at it before you will notice effect.

Im trying to get my dad to vape for the first time (hes never smoked weed either, just cigars, and only on rare occasions). If it happens anytime in the near future, Ill be sure to post the results ive noticed with him as I have been trying to figure out what is actually behind the no effect problem.

Like you said, it could just be the receptors adjusting to the new chemical and the next time it sees the chemical, it recognizes it and processes it normally. Sorta like your immune system and infections; your body doesn't recognize them until the second time and thats usually when your body responds to the infection properly.

As for vapes, It really depends on your needs. Does it need to be small/portable and stealthy or can you just keep it out with no worries? Do you have a high or low budget for your weed? would you vape with multiple people?

I mean I would probably recommend a log style vape (purple days, myrtle zap, woodeez) for a first vape if your not worried about stealth and portability. They are VERY efficient, if not the most efficient vaporizers and they will get the job done without any complexity of having to worry about temperatures and parts. They are super simple to use.

If stealth or portability is a main concern, then defiantly check out the launchbox. It too is very efficacy but a little harder to learn how to use and since youve never gotten high before, it would be hard for you to tell if youre doing it correctly.

As for the bud, I say just ask some people. If you dont feel comfortable asking people you know then just try asking some strangers.. I promise nobody will prosecute you for asking where to find bud, theyll probably tell you they dont know and dont do that stuff but chances are youll eventually find someone whos a stoner and can probably help you out. That or stand outside of a smoke shop and ask people; im sure you'll find some before having to ask a third person..

 

[1Up]

Thanks guys. Yeah, the MFLB might not be the best pick for me. I had been reading plenty of rave reviews, and considering the price, I thought it might be a good way to start for +/- $100. I had considered a Vapolution and Da Buddha as well. I'll look into the log-style units.

Does it need to be small/portable and stealthy or can you just keep it out with no worries? Do you have a high or low budget for your weed? would you vape with multiple people?

I guess I don't need stealth or portability really (I live alone). And I don't plan to vape with other people. As far as budget for weed goes... it depends on how much I end up liking it. Though I would love to hear recommendations on what to try to ask for as my first purchase.

I have a few people around town I'm semi-congenial with that I'll ask... I'm a bit of an introvert (and always afraid I'll get ripped off), so I'll just have to work up the courage. Putting down the cash on a vaporizer will probably help push me forward.

 

[Nycdeisel]

Just be relaxed and confident man, MOST cannabis users are friendly, happy go lucky people. just follow basics rules of purchasing, like not fronting money and such.

Its hard to say what you should do in this situation, seeing how you have never even tried the herb.
Since your already set on vaporizing(good choice), you dont have to deal with smoke. Trust me if you never start smoking, you dont need to.

I would say a MZ would be good for you, its a 'log style' unit like the PD and WDZ, but has a screen which is good, doesnt have a crazy long wait time like the PD, and costs less. its very very simple and easy to use, no buttons or settings to fuck with, and its pretty much impossible to accidentally burn the herb, a very good trait to have in a beginner vaporizer.

Start searching around the web for pictures of high quality cannabis so that you know what to look for. Good luck, its not rocket science, just takes some confidence and decent social skills(I see you say your an introvert, and I would consider myself in the same boat).

 

[Mckdenton]

welcome to FC and the world of cannabis 1up! There are three side-affects that i can think of that you need to be aware of while dabbling with this plant. please be aware of these, it is very important. those side-affects are hungry, sleepy, and happy.

Also, I agree with Nycdeisel in regards to the "log style" vape. IMO great beginner vape, it is very straight forward and nearly impossible to screw up.

I look forward to hearing your final choice and, your experience with this herb.

oh yeah and good choice on jumping right into vaping, you are a smart cookie!

 

[djonkoman]

and if you can't find weed you can always grow it, when I started I was kind of in the same boat too(only at a younger age)
it began with some plants a friend found somewhere, I got one and started researching weed a bit(I was also pretty introvert, now I can be on ocassions, and I always want to know a lot about my hobbies so before I ever smoked I already knew more about weed as the average stoner), at that time I didn't have any friends that smoked (at least not that bI knew), next year I started an outdoorgrow in the backyard, when those plants were small I smoked for the first time, but I didn't get high till the 5th time or so, wich was also my first selfrolled pure(not with tobacco as most people roll here) joint from own harvest
and I think weed also got me less introvert, at least it gained me a lot of good friends

 

[pakalolo]

haven't been able to find much information about using a vaporizer for your very first encounter with cannabis, without no smoking background. Is there anything I should be aware of? Right now I'm still kind of unsure about everything... I just have loose-formed plans about buying a MFLB and a grinder, then trying to track down some herb even though I don't know anyone to get me started in my area.

I strongly recommend you find someone with experience to guide you. If you can't, do as much research as you can on what to expect as well as how to go about it. In my opinion, knowing what to expect makes a huge difference in your early experiences.

I agree that the MFLB isn't the right device to start with unless you have an experienced LB user to show you how. Even experienced vaporists sometimes have trouble learning to use the LB.

I started with an Extreme, and I still think it's a solid choice for a first-timer. It doesn't have much of a learning curve and it is versatile, so you can try both bags and whip. I haven't used a Herbalaire but I understand that since you can vape whole nuggets it is even easier to learn. It also can do both bags and whip.

Anyway, I can't repeat this enough: find a guide. I think cannabis is a social drug. It's more fun when I'm sharing.

 

[1Up]

Thanks to everyone for weighing in here, I really appreciate the guidance.

I've been thinking it over, and now that I understand more about how the log-type units work, I think I'm going to pull the trigger on the MZ. Cost isn't too bad, design is simple enough and the materials seem worry-free.

I'll definitely try and report back on my experience. Thanks again!

 

[TanzRemix]

Thanks to everyone for weighing in here, I really appreciate the guidance.

I've been thinking it over, and now that I understand more about how the log-type units work, I think I'm going to pull the trigger on the MZ. Cost isn't too bad, design is simple enough and the materials seem worry-free.

I'll definitely try and report back on my experience. Thanks again!

MZ is a great choice. It was/is my first vape and is really KISS (keep it simple, stupid) in design and use. I also think it is the perfect choice for someone who lives alone and isn't worried about portability. One thing you should look into are youtubes on packing and breathing techniques, as these will allow you to quickly learn the ropes. .

Oh yeah, and as you go out to acquire some product, trust your gut. Undoubtedly you will have some anxieties to deal with (doing something new, illegal, etc)., so do your best to keep those in check while staying aware of your surroundings, but if you get a bad feeling I would act on it.

 

[1Up]

So I tried everything out last night, and... Whoa. Remember, this wasn't just my first time vaping, it was my first time with herb entirely.

Started with a pretty small amount of ground herb, did 3 10-second pulls, held for 10 seconds before exhaling. 15 min later I was feeling a little giddy and overly interested in simple things, but didn't feel very "high" - so at 30 min I made the mistake of packing another stem and doing 5 or 6 more pulls.

Then I kind of freaked out. The thing I wasn't ready for was how my perception of time would change. I was so nervous that the next few hours were going to feel like days. I was lost for a while and felt a little trapped. Decided to go to sleep for a bit. Went in and out of sleep for an hour or so before the time perception stuff wore off. Then I was able to relax more and enjoy it.

So in short, I probably went too far too fast. The beginning and end were great though. Sort of went like this...

(15min) :/ (30min) (90min)

It's the next morning, and I still feel a little off from normal. Next time, I'll take it waaay easier.

 

[Gunky]

Well now you know what to expect and have some idea of dosage. That first time is often a wonderful trip. I remember laughing, laughing... If the ride gets a bit hairy try eating something sweet. Seems to take the edge off. I second the idea that you find a vapor buddy.

 

[Nycdeisel]

Yea, its really not fun to go past your personal level of comfort. Just slow down a bit, take some, wait a few, see how you feel, etc...

Glad to see that you enjoyed it, nice use of smileys as well

 

[AGBeer]

Might I ask if you live in a medical state, or if you 'found a buddy' with the run of the mill (unidentifiable) 'mids'

I know that this can also make a difference and begin to target specific ailments (or irritants) as they may be.

 

[pakalolo]

I'm not a big fan of smileys but this:

(15min) :/ (30min) (90min)

is brilliant.

PS I've been on that trip.

 

[1Up]

Thanks guys, glad to hear my experience wasn't too uncommon considering my methods!

Might I ask if you live in a medical state, or if you 'found a buddy' with the run of the mill (unidentifiable) 'mids'

I know that this can also make a difference and begin to target specific ailments (or irritants) as they may be.

I'm in the pacific northwest, got mine from a "buddy" who is really into organic everything, so I wasn't too concerned. I can post photos of it if need be, not sure if people do that here very often. As a rookie, I can't tell what I've got, really.

 

[rabblerouser]

good times, yeah, things are much most intense when just starting out. if you make a habit of it, it is still enjoyable, but becomes milder.

 

[rtwoite]

(15min) :/ (30min) (90min)

IMHO taking a shower helps the pass more comfortably. minor discomforts feel like a matter of great consequence, therefore "water, hot!"

 

[MG23]

Here is the same tip I give to all friends smoking for the first time, should be even easier to take this tip with a vaporizer instead of smoking (I find vaping = less paranoia.)

Just relax man. Plain and simple. Sit back, maybe turn on a little peaceful music, and let your mind settle down. Enjoy yourself and let the thoughts come naturally. You'll enjoy yourself a lot more if you don't let those negative thoughts in.

 

[DaProfessor]

+1 on the advice on this thread. Just posting my experience, since I was under almost the same circumstances a couple years ago.

I count vaporizing as my first canna experience. I did have few puffs from a friends pipe in college, but don't remember feeling anything. I eventually fell in love with all the cool glassware for smoking, but didn't want to smoke anything. So I found FC and started reading. I made my first vape, ceramic soldering iron w/ 14mm joint and an SSV wand. Got high for the first time, and been sticking with it since. I got extremely high the first time I vaped, but I guess it counts as the second time. Maybe that first and only smoking experience 'primed' my receptors. But that experience was years before vaping for the first time.

Edit: Try watching cheech and chong up in smoke. It's pretty good sober, but genius when you're flying.

 

[djonkoman]

Here is the same tip I give to all friends smoking for the first time, should be even easier to take this tip with a vaporizer instead of smoking (I find vaping = less paranoia.)

Just relax man. Plain and simple. Sit back, maybe turn on a little peaceful music, and let your mind settle down. Enjoy yourself and let the thoughts come naturally. You'll enjoy yourself a lot more if you don't let those negative thoughts in.

agreed, I've never had a bad trip from weed alone(only with alcohol), even tough I've experienced a lot of the effects thaty people often describe from a bad trip, but I just never panicked but enjoyed it(effects like snowy vision like a tv with bad reception, feeling like every minute lasted an hour and and hour only lasted a minute at the same time, feelink like I wasn't breathing emough since it seemed to take so long between breeaths, etc, I've even had slight paranoia, but I've always been able to immediatly surpress paranoia if it surfaces)

 

[AGBeer]

Heres another little secret too - Even us 'experienced' vaporists still get a case of the heebie-jeebies (aka im going to overly-psychoanalize every single aspect of things that I have no control over or dont exist)

I get those feelings from time to time when I am vaping. Sure it can suck, but somehow Ive learned to 'enjoy the scare' and ride it out. (Kind of like a scary movie) As long as you know its all in your head, it makes it that much easier if you accidentally get to that point. Eventually you will learn whats comfortable for you and when too much is too much. Even more valuable is the fact that you will know that its only temporary

And remember -

 

[charliedontsurf]

Thanks guys. Yeah, the MFLB might not be the best pick for me. I had been reading plenty of rave reviews, and considering the price, I thought it might be a good way to start for +/- $100. I had considered a Vapolution and Da Buddha as well. I'll look into the log-style units.

I'll just chime in and say the vapolution is not worth its expense by a long shot, you can get far more sophisticated vapes such as the Herbalaire and SSV and ExtremeQ for not much more money. I like my vapolution fine having gotten it in a very good trade but would of felt a little silly paying 150ish for it. It's a good thing you didn't end up buying it.

The log vape is probably a great choice for a novice smoker - your tolerance is nill and will stay near it for a long time, so you probably won't get the hankering for a more robust-hitting vape, while conserving your stash.