It's a real practice, and it's exactly why buying loose packs from an unknown source is riskier than it looks.
What weighing actually detects
Foil and Holo cards weigh a fraction of a gram more than non-foil cards. A precision scale can detect that difference through a sealed pack, letting someone identify — without opening it — whether a pack likely contains a valuable foil card.
Why it matters for buyers
A pack that's been weighed, found to lack a foil hit, and resold has effectively been picked over before it reached you, even though it looks untouched. This is the core reason loose packs from unverified sources carry more risk than a factory-sealed box.
The straightforward fix
Buying full Booster Boxes or Bundles direct from official distribution, like our Pitch Black Booster Box, removes the risk entirely — factory sealing means no individual pack has been isolated and weighed.
Frequently asked questions
What is pack weighing?
Using a precision scale to detect the extra weight of foil cards in a sealed pack.
Is pack weighing or sorting legal?
Not illegal, but reputable retailers treat it as against the spirit of selling sealed product.
How can you avoid buying a pack that's been weighed and picked over?
Buy sealed boxes direct from a retailer sourcing through official distribution.