Whether you’re an experienced smoker looking to elevate your experience or just getting started with cannabis, dabbing offers one of the most potent experiences available, taking a dab requires a lot of equipment and knowledge, so it’s important to understand how everything works before you start.
Dabbing can be tricky for beginners, but if you take your time and follow these tips, you’ll soon be taking giant hits like a pro!
Know Your Materials
Dabbing is a method of using marijuana that involves heating a small amount of cannabis and inhaling the vapor produced. This method of use has become increasingly popular among cannabis enthusiasts due to its potency and flavor profile.
You’ll need a dab rig and the appropriate tools to begin dabbing. The best dab rigs looks similar to a bong, but it has a nail for dabs instead of a bowl. Nails are usually made from quartz or titanium and can be manual or electric.
When choosing a nail, it’s best to start with something medical-grade. This will help ensure your nail remains clean and free of contaminants. It’s also recommended that you “season” your nail by applying a bit of shatter and letting it vaporize completely before using.
Know Your Rig
The most important piece of dabbing equipment is your rig. A dab rig looks much like a water bong but has a fitting instead of a bowl. The fitting is where you load your concentrates. A dab rig should be small so that your vapor doesn’t have far to travel to feel and taste.
Your nail or banger can be made of quartz, titanium, glass, or ceramic. A quartz nail is best for beginners because it conducts and retains heat well. It’s also durable and easy to clean.
You can also get an e-nail, which lets you set the temperature and electronically heats your nail to that point. The e-nail can be helpful for beginners who aren’t comfortable using a torch and waiting for their nails to heat up.
Know Your Nail
A quality nail is essential for a high-quality dabbing experience. Nails are available in various materials and come in different shapes and sizes. Choosing the right one depends on your rig, personal preference, and budget.
Regardless of the nail you choose, it is important to understand its optimal temperature window. A nail that is too hot can ruin the flavor of your vapor. Likewise, a nail that is too cold can make it difficult to inhale.
Most dabbers use a butane torch (think mini creme brulee torch) to heat their nails, but propane torches can also be used. Some dabbers opt for an electronic nail, which uses coils to heat a titanium or quartz nail to the desired temperature. These nails are typically inexpensive and easy to use.
Know Your Concentrate
Dabbing is not only an effective way to enjoy cannabis extracts but also a quick, potent method that can deliver the effects of an entire joint in just one hit. The dabbing process may seem a little intimidating initially, but it’s fairly simple once you get the hang of it.
The basic tools you need for dabbing are a rig, a loading tool (also known as a dabber), and a carb cap. The nail or banger is part of the rig where you’ll place your concentrates, and the carb cap helps control airflow and temperature for optimal vapor production. You’ll also need a torch for heating the nail to its proper temperature. Once the nail reaches its sweet spot, add your concentrate and inhale.
Know Your Temperature
Once you’ve assembled your dab rig, nail and dabber, and a handheld torch to heat it up with, deciding how long to heat the nail can seem confusing. Aiming for a light red glow can be difficult without a temperature gauge.
Overheating your concentrate degrades its terpenes, which are responsible for the flavors and effects of cannabis. A lower dab temperature releases the terpenes slowly, producing a smooth and rewarding experience.
Many dabbers use eNails, which have built-in heating coils that keep the nails at a consistent temperature without needing a blowtorch. These are more expensive but allow you to dial in precise temperatures for a customizable dabbing experience. They also help avoid overheating the concentrate, which can harm the user.