Real McCoy strain guide
Real McCoy is a hybrid of a Hawaiian strain and Skunk #1, credited to the Dutch seed company The Flying Dutchmen. People know it for a pungent skunk smell with a sweet, fruity edge and an upbeat, energetic feel. It's sometimes listed as The Real McCoy.
Where does Real McCoy come from?
Real McCoy comes from a Hawaiian mother crossed with Skunk #1, which The Flying Dutchmen sell as The Pure. Sources agree on those two parents. One strain database credits The Flying Dutchmen as the breeder, though other listings don't name one.
The Hawaiian side is not well documented beyond the name. Some sellers also use Real McCoy loosely for other Hawaiian and Skunk crosses, so the plant behind a given label can vary.
What does Real McCoy smell and taste like?
Real McCoy smells loud and skunky, with a heavy, oily funk. Under that is something sweeter: citrus, berry and a sweet-and-sour candy note, with a little spice and wood.
Published terpene results list myrcene first, then pinene and caryophyllene. Myrcene gives the earthy, musky base, pinene a fresh pine note and caryophyllene a peppery bite. The flavour tends to start sweet and floral and finish with that skunky spice.
Real McCoy effects: what people report
People most often describe Real McCoy as energetic, uplifted and creative, with a heady lift up front. Some also call it giggly or focused, and a few say it turns relaxed as it wears on. It gets mentioned as a daytime strain more often than a night one.
These are experiences people report, not promises. How it feels depends on the product, how much you have and your own tolerance. Dry eyes are the most common complaint.
How strong is Real McCoy?
Listings for Real McCoy vary a lot. Some put it as low as 12% to 14% THC, while others list it closer to 24%, with very little CBD. That spread likely reflects different plants and growers under the same name.
Because the range is so wide, the number on your label matters more than usual. Start with a small amount and give it time before having more.
Buying Real McCoy in Canada
Real McCoy is not a common name on shelves. If you find it, check whether the label says Real McCoy or The Real McCoy (the same strain) and look for any note about genetics, since similar Hawaiian and Skunk crosses are sold under other names.
Check the THC and CBD numbers and the packaging date, since fresher flower keeps more of that skunky, fruity smell.
Real McCoy vs Skunk #1
Skunk #1 is one of Real McCoy's parents, so the skunky base is shared. The Hawaiian side is what sets Real McCoy apart: it brings a sweeter, fruitier smell and a more energetic, heady reputation, while Skunk #1 is earthier, sour and more evenly balanced between relaxed and upbeat. If you want the classic skunk smell, start with Skunk #1. If you'd like it sweeter and livelier, try Real McCoy.
Strains like Real McCoy
If you like Real McCoy, these are the closest matches:
- Skunk #1: its parent, with the same skunky base and a more balanced feel.
- Maui Wowie: a Hawaiian classic with a sweet, tropical smell and an upbeat reputation.
- Super Skunk: another Skunk-family strain with a loud, pungent jar.
- Lemon Skunk: keeps the skunk funk but adds bright lemon.
