What is a Dab Rig?

Heard of dabbing? It refers to the act of inhaling vaporized cannabis concentrates, either in wax or oil form. The dab rig is a device. You can put concentrated cannabis in it. Then, you light it up with a lighter/butane torch or an electric heater.

The cannabis is concentrated. It makes consumers get high faster and more strongly than traditional methods. It's even more than a bong. However, these stronger highs have more risks. They can make consumers feel overwhelmed.

How Does a Dab Rig Work?

Dab rigs work on the same principle as all cannabis smoking devices. You heat up the product, turn it into smoke or vapor, and then inhale. It’s how the rig heats the cannabis, or in this case, the concentrate, that differs.

Let’s go through the different components:

  • The Dab Nail is a critical component of the dab rig, responsible for vaporizing the concentrate. Once heated, it is applied to the concentrate to create the vapor instantaneously.
  • The Torch is used to heat the dab nail. The torch could be a butane torch or some other option.
  • The Carb Cap manages the airflow and maintains an optimal temperature within the dab rig. It caps the airflows, creating a convection effect that vaporizes the concentrate evenly.

So, how do these different components come together to produce the vapor? Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Heat the nail in a direct flame until it becomes red hot. This should take around 20-30 seconds. Allow the nail to cool for approximately 45-60 seconds.
  2. Apply the heated nail to a small amount of concentrate using a dab tool. As the concentrate vaporizes, you should gently inhale it through the mouthpiece.
  3. Inhale slowly, holding a deep breath in your lungs. After a few seconds, gently breathe out the smoke.

Once you’ve completed the dab, remember to clean the nail using a cotton bud dipped in isopropyl alcohol. Failing to clean up will lead to gradual residue accumulation.

Why Use a Dab Rig?

The obvious reason to use a dab rig is strong hits. It's better to vaporize concentrates at high temperatures. This produces a vapor of pure cannabinoids, instead of smoke. Smoke has many harmful chemicals.

Not only is the effect more potent, but it hits quicker. The lungs can rapidly absorb vaporized cannabinoids into the bloodstream.

There’s also a difference between conventional dab rigs and electronic dab rigs (or e-rigs). The latter lets you **set the exact temperature**. This lets you target certain terpenes or cannabinoids. That provides a more consistent flavor and effect. Many consumers describe the vapor as more aromatic. It is a deeply delicious experience compared to smoking.

Some dab rigs are large, especially certain e-rigs. But, they are much easier to hide and clean. If you’re concerned about the smell associated with cannabis use, dab rigs are the preferred option.

Types of Dab Rigs

Like almost every kind of smoking device, from pipes to bongs, there’s an endless array of options. However, as a general rule, dab rigs come in eight varieties – although there’s a little blurred line on what is considered a rig.

Popular options include:

  1. Standard Dab Rigs: Traditional rigs with a water chamber and a nail for heating concentrates.
  2. Mini Dab Rigs: Smaller versions of standard rigs designed for portability.
  3. Recycler Dab Rigs: Feature a loop system that recycles water for smoother hits.
  4. E-Rigs (Electronic Dab Rigs): Use battery-powered heating elements for consistent temperatures.
  5. Silicone Dab Rigs: Made from durable, heat-resistant silicone, it is portable and unbreakable.
  6. Honey Straw/Nectar Collector: Portable, straw-like devices for direct dabbing without a rig.
  7. Incycler Rigs: Combine features of standard and recycler rigs for enhanced filtration.
  8. Glass Blunts: Small, handheld devices for quick, easy dabbing.

Different dab rigs offer different upsides and downsides. While a glass blunt is smaller and more discrete, it’s probably not as smooth as an e-rig. On the other hand, you don’t have to worry about charging the rig when the battery is running low.

What Type of Rig is Best For Dabs?

The answer depends on your preferences. The e-rig is probably the best overall option for portability, flavor, and temperature control. Because you can set the precise temperature, the result is the same every time. You also don’t have the hassle of heating the nail – all you need to do is switch it on.

That being said, there are a few notable runners-up.

Take the Recycler Dab Rig, for example. Thanks to its superior water filtration, it delivers the smoothest and most flavorful hits. Silicone dab rigs are highly durable and virtually unbreakable, perfect for clumsy users.

Honey straws and nectar collectors are another viable option if you’re on the go due to their compact size and ease of use. Mini dab rigs also offer portability and convenience, making them ideal for travel.

Dab Rig Accessories and Tools You’ll Need

Unlike smoking a joint, where you need nothing more than papers, cannabis, and a lighter, dab rigs require a few accessories.

Usually, you’ll need the following items:

  • A DAB Nail or Banger is used to heat the concentrate – options include quartz, titanium, and ceramic.
  • A Carb Cap covers the nail or banger to control the airflow.
  • A Torch, either butane or propane, heats the nail or banger.
  • The Dabber tool allows you to handle or apply the concentrate.

Other pieces of equipment you might consider are a dab mat, a dab container, and alcohol swabs. These tools help you organize and maintain your accessories. Terp pearls are somewhat popular. These small beads are placed in the banger to help distribute heat evenly.

How to Use a Dab Rig: How does a Dab Rig Work

Dab rigs are similar to bongs in shape, but they are used to vaporize concentrated forms of cannabis instead of combusting dry flower. With some basic knowledge and supplies, you can easily learn how to use a dab rig

  • Gather materials: Dab rig, torch lighter, dab tool, concentrate of your choice
  • Heat the nail with a torch for 30-45 seconds
  • Wait 10-15 seconds to allow it to cool down before using
  • Use the dab tool to place a small amount of concentrate onto the heated nail
  • Inhale slowly and deeply from the mouthpiece while simultaneously touching the concentrate onto the nail