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What Is a Zip Drug? Your Guide to Weed Measurements
A 'zip' is a slang term for one ounce (28 grams) of cannabis flower. The name comes from the standard Ziploc bag that holds this amount perfectly. It's one of the most common measurements you'll hear at a dispensary.
What Is a Zip of Weed? The Simple Definition
A zip is a slang term for one ounce of cannabis. It's one of the most common quantities you'll hear at a dispensary, and knowing what it means helps you shop with confidence.
| Measurement | Grams | Common Name |
|---|---|---|
| 1 zip | 28 grams | Ounce |
| Half a zip | 14 grams | Half ounce |
| Quarter zip | 7 grams | Quarter ounce |
| Eighth | 3.5 grams | 1/8 ounce |
| Vic | 7 grams | Quarter (slang) |
So a zip equals 28 grams. A half zip is 14 grams, a quarter zip is 7 grams, and there are 8 eighths (3.5 grams each) in a full zip. The term "vic" is also slang for 7 grams — same as a quarter zip. If you're wondering, "Is a vic 7 grams?" the answer is yes.
At Garden of Eden, we use standard measurements so you always know exactly what you're getting. Whether you're ordering online or visiting our cannabis dispensary in Tracy, our budtenders can help you pick the right amount.
Zip vs. Ounce: Are They the Same?
Yes, a zip and an ounce are exactly the same amount — 28 grams of cannabis flower. The only difference is the name: 'zip' is slang, while 'ounce' is the standard unit of measurement.
| Term | Weight | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Zip | 28 grams | Slang, common in casual conversation |
| Ounce | 28 grams | Formal, used on menus and labels |
So if you hear someone say 'I picked up a zip,' they mean they bought one ounce of cannabis. At our Tracy dispensary, we use both terms so everyone feels comfortable.
Zip to Grams: Measurements and Conversions
Understanding zip measurements makes buying cannabis easier. Here's a quick conversion table for common amounts:
| Amount | Grams | Eighths |
|---|---|---|
| 1 zip (ounce) | 28g | 8 eighths |
| Half zip | 14g | 4 eighths |
| Quarter zip | 7g | 2 eighths |
| Eighth | 3.5g | 1 eighth |
| Gram | 1g | — |
Is a half more than a zip? No — a half zip (14g) is exactly half of a full zip (28g). So a zip is always larger. For more on smaller amounts, see our guide on [[how-many-grams-is-a-quarter|how many grams is a quarter]].
Why Is an Ounce Called a Zip? The Origin Story
The term 'zip' comes from the Ziploc bag. In the early days of cannabis culture, a standard ounce of flower fit perfectly into a small Ziploc bag. The bag's zip-top closure gave the measurement its name.
Over time, 'zip' became shorthand for the amount itself — one ounce (28 grams). It's one of the oldest and most common slang terms for an ounce, still used widely today from Tracy to Stockton and beyond.
So when you hear 'zip,' just think of that familiar plastic bag and the 28 grams it holds.
Directions to our cannabis dispensary in Tracy from Tracy Transit Center
Start at Tracy Transit Center and head to Garden of Eden at 2420 W Grant Line Rd, Tracy, CA 95377.
How Much Is a Zip of Weed? Price Guide
The cost of a zip varies based on quality, strain, and local market. Here are the main factors:
| Factor | Why It Matters | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Top-shelf flower costs more than budget options | Varies widely |
| Strain popularity | Exotic or in-demand strains may be pricier | Varies |
| Location | Prices differ between cities and states | Varies |
| Dispensary vs. street | Licensed dispensaries offer tested, consistent products | Varies |
For exact pricing at our Tracy location, visit our cannabis dispensary tracy|home| and check our menu online or ask a budtender.
How Much Weed Should You Buy? A Zip or Less?
A good fit if…
- You're a regular smoker — a zip lasts a heavy user about a week or two, depending on consumption.
- You want the best value — buying in bulk (a zip) usually costs less per gram than smaller amounts.
- You share with friends — a zip is enough for a group session or to split with a buddy.
Consider another option if…
- You're new to cannabis — start with an eighth (3.5 grams) or a quarter (7 grams) to see what works for you.
- You only use occasionally — a half zip (14 grams) or less may be plenty to avoid waste.
- You're on a tight budget — smaller amounts like an eighth or quarter cost less upfront.
Not sure yet? Our budtenders can help you decide based on your habits. You can also check out our guide on how many eighths are in a zip for more context.
| Amount | Grams | Typical Use Duration (varies) |
|---|---|---|
| Eighth | 3.5 g | A few days for light use |
| Quarter | 7 g | About a week for moderate use |
| Half zip | 14 g | 1–2 weeks for regular use |
| Zip | 28 g | 2+ weeks for heavy use |
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How many grams is 1 zip?
One zip equals exactly 28 grams of cannabis flower. This is the same as one ounce.
Is a half more than a zip?
No, a half zip (14 grams) is exactly half of a full zip (28 grams). So a zip is always larger.
Why is 28 grams called a zip?
The term 'zip' comes from the Ziploc bag that holds one ounce (28 grams) of cannabis perfectly. The zip-top closure gave the measurement its name.
How many eighths are in a zip?
There are eight eighths in a zip. Each eighth is 3.5 grams, and 8 x 3.5g = 28g.
What is a half zip in grams?
A half zip is 14 grams, which is half of a full zip (28 grams). It's also called a half-ounce.
Also asked as
- What is a zip of weed?
- How many grams are in a zip?
- Is a zip the same as an ounce?