Have you ever heard the term "blinker"?
What has the same name as your car turn signal has a vastly different meaning in the cannabis world. A blinker refers to vape pens and cartridges that blink when you hit them until the battery times out. In this blog post, we'll break down the blinker phenomenon, explore the highs and risks associated with it, and why you might want to reconsider your blinker habit.
A blinker is the term used to describe the sequence of events when a user activates a vape pen or cartridge, leading to the battery blinking intermittently.
This is the device's safety mechanism intervening to prevent overheating, safeguarding the integrity of the cartridge and battery. The duration of the blinker lasts typically about 8-10 seconds, depending on the specific cartridge in use.
The big question is: should you be taking blinkers?
Well, it all comes down to personal preference and tolerance levels. For some cannabis users, blinkers are a necessity. Without them, some users claim they don't get that desired high. But for others, even one blinker can leave them in a hazy daze. Whether blinkers are worthwhile depends on the individual and the type of battery they're using.
These days, some brands use custom-built batteries for their cartridges. These batteries are distinct from the traditional 510 batteries and are designed to fit pods rather than cartridges, making the blinking experience unique.
So, how do blinkers make you feel? Imagine something similar to a low-temperature dab. The cartridges or pods used in these vape pens may contain live resin or distillate, similar to what you'd use for a dab. For those with a lower tolerance, just one blinker will do the job for you. An important thing to note about blinkers is that the vapour produced by the THC interacts differently with your lungs compared to smoke, and it can take time for your respiratory system to adjust. Some types of wax are less likely to induce a hacking fit, so it's a good idea to find a brand that suits your lungs.
If you're all about getting stoned quickly, taking blinkers might be your go-to. But beware, if you decide to chain-smoke several blinkers one after the other, your cartridge will need some time to cool off in between.
While blinkers can be fun, they come at a cost, both to your wallet and health.
When you take a blinker, your battery blinks to tell you to stop to prevent overheating. Each blinker session heats your battery and pod, causing more oil to be used. This results in using more of your precious cartridge per hit.
It's essential to be aware of the potential health risks of blinkers. Some cases have been reported of individuals experiencing lung collapse after prolonged periods of taking blinkers. While this may not be a direct result of blinkers, severe coughing or pre-existing conditions can worsen due to this habit.
When considering blinkers, consider their risks and drawbacks. It's crucial to strike a balance between enjoying your cannabis experience and safeguarding your health.
