The Ultimate Guide to CBD Concentrates: Wax, Shatter, Crumble, and More
Posted by Steve Schultheis on Apr 15th 2025

CBD concentrates offer some of the most potent, fast-acting effects available from hemp-derived products. Whether you're an experienced user or new to dabbing, this ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know about CBD wax, shatter, crumble, and beyond.
From how they’re made to how to use them safely, we’ll cover all the bases so you can elevate your wellness routine with confidence.
What Are CBD Concentrates?
CBD concentrates are highly potent extracts derived from hemp that contain elevated levels of cannabidiol (CBD) and, in some cases, other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes. Unlike traditional CBD oils or edibles, these concentrates are designed for users seeking stronger, faster-acting effects.
They typically come in semi-solid forms like wax, shatter, or crystalline powder, and are commonly consumed through dabbing, vaping, or even mixing into food or drinks.
Types of CBD Concentrates
There are several types of CBD concentrates, each with its own consistency, cannabinoid profile, and ideal use case. Here's a breakdown of the most popular types:
1. CBD Wax
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Soft and malleable with a honey-like texture
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Usually made from broad-spectrum or full-spectrum distillate
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Can be terpene-infused for flavor and entourage effect
2. CBD Shatter
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Brittle, glass-like form
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Made from CBD isolate and terpenes
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High purity and potency, typically 99%+ CBD
3. CBD Budder
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Whipped, creamy texture
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Created through air purging and agitation during the cooling phase
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Strong flavor profile due to preserved terpenes
4. CBD Crumble
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Dry and crumbly consistency like feta cheese
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Often made with pre-purged, high-moisture oils
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Less sticky, easier to handle than wax or budder
5. CBD Slab
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Solid, smooth isolate block
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Break off pieces easily for precise dosing
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Perfect for mixing into your own products
6. CBD Live Resin
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Made from flash-frozen hemp flower to preserve more cannabinoids and terpenes
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Usually has a stronger aroma and flavor
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Often higher in minor cannabinoids like CBG or CBN
7. CBD Isolate (Powder or Crystals)
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Purest form of CBD, up to 99.9% purity
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No THC or other cannabinoids
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Ideal for DIY formulations and flavorless applications
How Are CBD Concentrates Made?
Two main extraction methods are used to create CBD concentrates:
1. COβ Extraction
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Uses supercritical carbon dioxide to pull cannabinoids from hemp
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Considered the cleanest and safest method
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No residual solvents, preserving the integrity of the extract
2. BHO (Butane Hash Oil) Extraction
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Involves washing plant material with butane
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Effective for capturing cannabinoids and terpenes
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Requires post-processing to purge all residual solvents
At Steve's Goods, we prefer COβ extraction for many of our concentrates, especially for our broad-spectrum and isolate-based products, ensuring a clean, potent final product every time.
Comparison Table: CBD Concentrate Types
Type | Texture | Spectrum | Potency | Use Case |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wax | Soft, sticky | Broad/Full | 80-90% | Dabbing, vape pens |
Shatter | Brittle, glassy | Isolate-based | 99%+ | High-purity dabbing |
Budder | Creamy, whipped | Broad/Full | 70-80% | Flavor-rich dabbing |
Crumble | Dry, breakable | Broad/Full | 70-90% | Mess-free dabbing |
Slab | Solid block | Isolate-based | 99%+ | DIY infusions |
Live Resin | Sticky, aromatic | Full-spectrum | 80-90% | Terpene-rich experience |
Isolate | Powder/Crystal | Pure CBD | 99.9% | Precision dosing |
Legal Status of CBD Concentrates
Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC are federally legal in the United States. However, local and state regulations may vary, so always check your state's specific rules before purchasing or consuming CBD concentrates.
Steve’s Goods concentrates are all derived from legal, Colorado-grown hemp and undergo third-party testing to ensure compliance and purity.
How to Use CBD Concentrates
CBD concentrates are incredibly versatile and can be consumed in several ways:
1. Dabbing
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Requires a dab rig, dab nail, and torch (or e-nail)
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Heat nail to 350-400°F, apply concentrate, and inhale vapor
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Most potent and fast-acting method
2. Vape Pens and Dab Devices
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Use a wax-compatible vaporizer or devices like our Evri Pen
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Portable, discreet, and easy to control dosage
3. Edibles
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Mix isolate or slab into butter, oil, or directly into recipes
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Effects take longer but last longer too
4. Sublingual Application
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Place CBD isolate under your tongue for fast absorption
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Avoids first-pass metabolism
Potential Effects & Safety Tips
Common Effects:
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Fast relief from stress and discomfort
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Enhanced mood and focus
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Better sleep quality
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Muscle and joint support
Safety Tips:
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Start low and go slow with dosing
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Use clean, lab-tested products
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Avoid concentrates made with unpurged solvents
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Keep dab tools clean to avoid contamination
Always consult a healthcare provider before beginning any CBD regimen, especially if you’re taking other medications.
Explore CBD Concentrates from Steve’s Goods
Looking to try CBD dabs for the first time? Or are you a seasoned dabber ready for award-winning flavors?
Shop our wide selection of:
All products are made from Colorado-grown hemp, third-party lab tested, and flavored with plant-derived terpenes for a rich, effective dabbing experience.
CBD concentrates offer a powerful, targeted way to experience the benefits of cannabidiol. Whether you prefer flavorful wax, pure isolate shatter, or a terpene-rich live resin, understanding the options empowers you to make informed choices.
As always, choose quality. Choose purity. Choose Steve’s Goods.
Want to learn more?
Watch Steve himself explain dabbing tips on our YouTube Channel or browse customer favorites in our CBD shop.