Here is what I found:
These UVB bulbs will definitely effect the amount and consistency of trichomes. (notice I did not say THC)
They will make you turn cloudy and then amber pre-maturely
I think the overall effect on the plant is detrimental. TLC testing the resulting harvest DOES NOT show higher total cannabinoids in my grows. It just makes crap more finicky and you have to watch your eyes carefully. Can't just poke your head in the tent.
If you are gonna do it, I'd completely recommend start small.
Starting "small" is definitely the way to go. Whatever lights you get, start with the shortest period/day your timer will allow.
These are my personal observations:
1. It
doesn't increase trichome numbers. I have read many testimonials that claims it does, but I've never seen it happen and I've used it for about 9-10 grows. My early exploration into UVB was using 10% UVB reptile lights. Some buds were within an inch of the lights, other buds were up to 24 inches away. There was no difference in trich density, and given how quickly light intensity drops with distance from the source, I should have seen a difference.
I think most people aren't comparing trich density to anything but memory
2. It
does increase potency.
3. It
doesn't turn trichs cloudy or amber prematurely.
Give it a try and see if you agree. This is definitely a topic with a combination of real + bro science out there.