okay, so it REALLY depends on where u live to tell you how much a quarter should cost. In my area, a quarter costs 90$, in some areas a quarter could cost 30$, its all relative. now this quarter for a beginner smoker if its medium weed as you say, should probly last you about a month, but that depends on how often your smoking it (everyday?). if you keep it in a ziplock bag, and put that into some airtight container(tupperware) it should last you a very long time, you could be smokin it 3 months from now. to pack your piece, just break off a little nug(piece) of weed, and put it in the bowl. then lightly but firmly push the weed into the bowl until it is packed with enough weed as you want. its much easier than your makin it out to be, just put the weed in, and smoke it. HAVE FUN! DONT KILL YOURSELF!