How To Use A Dab Rig

Dabbing has become extremely popular over the last couple of years. The dabs are a new way to consume cannabis concentrates (aka waxes) and oils. They are also known as dab rigs or dab pens.

Dabbing involves heating marijuana concentrate to create vaporized smoke. This method produces a much cleaner high than smoking weed. Though there are multiple meanings to the word dab, in this context it is referring to a device used to make concentrates. 

There can be a lot of confusion when it comes to using a dab rig, but don’t worry! We are here to clear up any confusion you might be facing. We have created a guide so you know all you need to know about dab rigs, including a step-by-step guide on how to use them. 

How To Use A Dab Rig

What Are Dab Rigs? 

A dab rig is a tool that allows users to heat their concentrates quickly and easily. It can be used with both dry herb and oil-based concentrates.

A dab rig consists of two main parts: the base unit and the nail. The nail is what heats your concentrate while the base unit holds everything together. The base unit or the foundation of the dab is a glass pipe

The nail is the part that actually heats the concentrate. Different nails are designed for different temperatures. For example, some nails are designed for low-temperature vaping while others are designed for higher-temperature vaping. 

Nails may also be referred to as a banger. Bangers are most commonly made out of glass, though you may find some made out of ceramic or even quartz. 

Another part of a dab rig is the carp cap. This device is designed to help lower pressure in the rig. You may find that some dab rigs come with a quartz insert. This is to add more surface area. Quartz inserts also allow you to make the most out of a lower temperature dab. 

How Do I Use A Dab Rig? 

How Do I Use A Dab Rig? 

Now that we know what a dab rig consists of, let us look at how we use a dab rig. Following these simple steps will help you to learn how to easily use a dab rig. 

What You Will Need

Before we get started, you need to make sure you have the right equipment. In order to use a dab rig you will need: 

  • A dab rig
  • A rag
  • A blow torch 
  • A dabber (pushes the concentrate down)
  • Oil Concentrate 
  • Water

Step One

The first thing you want to do is make sure the nail is properly secured to the dab rig. This is where you are most likely to have a fault in the dab rig and be burned as a result. This would not allow you to have the perfect experience using a dab rig. 

Then you can add the water to the chamber of your dab rig. 

Step Two 

Once everything is secure you can start to heat the nail. To do this, place the nail into the flame of your blow torch. Usually, it takes around half a minute for the nail to heat up. Quartz nails are likely to turn red when they are hot enough. 

Step Three 

Now that you’ve heated the nail, it is time to let it cool slightly. You need to cool the nail for over a minute. Even though you are letting it cool down, the nail will still be quite hot so be careful not to burn yourself.

Step Four 

After you have allowed your nail to cool down for a moment, it is time to get your oil concentrate and your dabber.  You want to place the oil concentrate on the dab nail. It is likely to evaporate quite quickly so make sure to move the dab around in order for all of it to evaporate. 

Step Four 

Step Five 

This is where the carb cap becomes handy. You want to cover up the nail by placing the carb cap on top of it. Some dab rigs do not have a carb cap so skip this step if that is the case. Using a carb cap allows for the dab to vaporize better which creates a better experience when inhaling. 

Step Six

Now it is time to inhale. You want to inhale from the mouthpiece of your dab rig. Go slowly if you are someone who is new to this. If you inhale too quickly it can lead to you coughing. Remember that a little goes a long way and that you are likely going to feel the effects of the oil concentrate very quickly after inhaling. 

Step Seven 

Once you have finished it is time to clean your nail. It is important that you always clean your nail as the build-up of leftover residue could end up messing with the flavor of any new oil concentrates you use which in turn, can ruin your experience. 

After you have allowed your nail to completely cool, take the rag and wipe it down. You can also use some rubbing alcohol on the rag to make sure the nail is completely clean. You need to make sure you are cleaning the inside of the nail thoroughly so your next experience will be just as good. 

Final Thoughts

There you have it! Everything you need to know about dab rigs and how to use them. Honestly, using a dab rig is about experimenting. This guide tells you the basic steps you need to follow but when it comes to using a dab rig it is all trial and error.

It is important to note that if you are a beginner you should only use a small amount of concentrate. This is because a small amount goes a really long way and it can be too strong for you if you are new to this.

With this in mind, inhale slowly and enjoy the experience. Dab rigs allow for a great experience, you just need to make sure you are being safe at the same time. 

We hope that this guide has allowed you to feel confident about using dab rigs. Please share this guide with others who may also benefit from reading it. We hope you have an amazing experience and thank you for reading!

Scott Peters
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