One of the more potent (and as of 2018, politically volatile) strains out there, Russian Assassin is an indica-leaning hybrid. This bud’s genetic background includes Headband, Skywalker, and Lemon OG Kush, all of which blend to yield an herbal flavor profile and a thoroughly relaxing high. Russian Assassin’s THC content has been measured at between 18% and 23%.

Perhaps like actual Russian assassins, flowers of Russian Assassin tend to fly under the radar. These subtle buds are just small to medium in size and maintain a tapered, spadelike shape. They have the solid, compact internal structure characteristic of other indica strains and are composed of mossy green leaves and curly, rust-colored pistils. A heavy coating of translucent white trichomes finishes off these flowers and makes them very sticky to the touch.

Russian Assassin gives off a rich, herbal aroma when properly cured, redolent of mint and eucalyptus. A closer whiff of these flowers may also pick up on hints of fresh pine. Meanwhile, breaking apart or grinding up these buds releases more of an earthy funk, with some distinctly acrid fumes of gasoline. When it’s burnt in a pipe or a joint, Russian Assassin gives off a thick and heavy smoke that may irritate some smokers’ sinuses. On the exhale, this smoke tastes piney and slightly floral.

This Russian Assassin strikes quickly and efficiently, hitting consumers with an arresting head high. Shortly after toking, users feel a slight throb around the temples and cheekbones, along with some possibly strange sensations like an increase in salivation. As these twinges subside, smokers may find themselves shot into a new orbit of thinking. Ideas may race from one to the next in rapid free association; certain thoughts or concepts may also seem to take on a new intensity or significance that they might not otherwise have. This kind of cerebral awareness can help motivated users to get work done on any complicated, analytical tasks. Alternatively, it can provide a soothing and stimulating background buzz for those tasked with boring errands like laundry or dishes. In the right set and setting, Russian Assassin can also have a psychedelic edge, leading to strange visual or auditory distortions as well as an uncanny feeling to time passing more slowly.

Within about an hour, Russian Assassin’s initially alert high melts into a more physically-centered sensation. Smokers may feel a relief from any knots of physical tension and may be able to take deep, restorative breaths. Those who may have been standing or otherwise active may need to make a beeline for the closest couch on which to stretch out and relax.