Water Chamber
Dab rigs are water pipes designed specifically for cannabis concentrates, or “dabs.” They filter vapor through water, ensuring every hit is clean and potent. This is also helpful in eliminating the harsh smoke that can irritate throats, a common problem with smoking flowers.
The most important part of a dab rig is the nail or banger, which holds the concentrate and is heated to vaporize it. A nail can be made from various materials, but quartz and titanium nails are popular choices because they heat quickly and retain the heat for an extended period.
When choosing a nail or banger, ensure it’s made of high-quality Glass. Silicone will work in a pinch, but Glass is ideal because it withstands the heat well and doesn’t seep unwanted flavors into your dabs. Glass is also easy to clean.
Nail or Banger
A dab nail is a crucial equipment that transforms oil or wax into flavorful vapor. The nail is placed in the joint of a dab rig and heated with a torch to produce the vapor. Nails are typically made of Glass, ceramic, titanium, or quartz and come in various shapes and sizes. Glass nails are easy to clean and perform well but can crack if exposed to too much heat. Ceramic nails offer a durable alternative that can withstand high temperatures and retain heat longer.
Quartz banger nails offer a reliable, long-lasting option in different styles. Flat-top bangers are the most common type and are compatible with a range of carb caps. Trough bangers feature a rounded bucket that forces all the concentrate to pool together at the bottom, minimizing wasted rosin. Thermal bangers are an emerging technology featuring a double-walled concentrate cup that is less likely to clog and can be used at lower temperatures.
Carb Cap
A carb cap is a crucial accessory that fits over the banger or nail of a dab rig. Like a car carburetor, a carb cap regulates airflow and pressure inside the nail, trapping vapor for a cleaner hit.
You can find a variety of carb caps, from simple domes to directional models that can be rotated or swiveled. When choosing a carb cap, look for one that snugly fits over the nail and is made from heat-resistant materials.
Once the carb cap is in place, you can use your rig! Experiment with various inhalation techniques to find what works best for you. For instance, some prefer a slower inhale, while others prefer a more forceful puff. You can also try using different concentrates to see what you like! Then, enjoy the whole experience of dabs!
Dab Tool
Unlike a regular cannabis joint or blunt, dab rigs minimize harshness. The water in the chamber helps filter the vapor and retain flavor, ensuring that each hit is smooth and clean.
Typically made of Glass or ceramic, these pipes are durable, classy, and easy to clean. They come in a wide range of sizes. Smaller rigs are more accessible to conceal from nosy neighbors, though they tend to lose heat faster than larger models.
Depending on the type of concentrate being used, some rigs will need add-ons like carb caps and domes. They also need a way to heat the nail or banger. While you can use a propane torch, upgrading to a butane torch is usually best for more precision and less risk of burning or ruining your product. Alternatively, you can opt for an e-nail that automatically uses a battery to heat the nail at a preset temperature.
