What is a dab rig? Different types? Advantages?

If you're looking for a strong high and a flavorful experience when inhaling cannabis concentrates, then a dab rig might be just what you need.

The dab rig is one such wonderful smoking device: a water pipe for smoking budder, shatter, wax, oil and other forms of concentrates.

Finding the perfect dab rig can seem a bit complicated at first, but don't worry. The more you know about dab rigs, the better you can make the right choice.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at what a dab rig is, the different parts and types of dab rigs, how it differs from a regular water pipe, and how to use and clean it.

What is a Dab Rig? Parts of a Dab Rig

A typical dab rig is a type of water pipe with a nail attachment for heating cannabis concentrate into a strong vapor.

The vapor is filtered and cooled before it reaches your mouth, ensuring a gentle, effective and pleasant experience.

Dab rigs are very similar to a regular bong, but have a few small differences that put them in a category of their own.

The main components of a dab rig include:

1. Mouthpiece

The part of the device where you inhale the vapor. Some devices have a curved neck or other designs to prevent water from entering your mouth.

2. Water chamber

The part of the dab rig that holds the water. The water cools and filters the vapor as it passes through, creating a smoother hit.

3. Joint

The connection point where you attach the nail or banger to the rig body.

Dab rig joints typically have fixed downstems and stand upright to accommodate a banger.

4. Nail or Banger

The bucket-shaped part of the dab rig that contains the concentrate and is heated to vaporize.

It can be made from a variety of materials, including quartz, titanium, ceramic or borosilicate glass.

5. Carburettor cap

A carb cap is a round piece that is used to cover the nail after the dab is applied to prevent the smoke from escaping, trap the heat and extend the smoking session.

6. Percolator

Percolators are not required, but are recommended and provide additional filtration for a smoother smoking experience.

7. Dabber or Pick

A dabber, also called a “pick,” is the dabbing tool you use to put the concentrate into the nail.

They are made of metal, glass or ceramic and are available in different shapes and styles.

Typically, you choose a shape based on the consistency of the concentrate you are dabbing.

8. Flashlight

A butane torch is more of an accessory than a part of the dab rig and you need it to heat the nail.

Propane torches burn a hotter flame that can damage the nail.

The 5 different types of dab rigs

There are many different types to choose from, from handy and portable designs to stronger percolation for higher temperatures and gentler dabbing.

Here are some of the most common options on the market:

1.Glass Dab Rigs

Glass dab rigs are the most traditional type of dab rig. They are commonly used by those who enjoy smoking wax, shatter, or rosin dabs.

Glass dab rigs are typically made from borosilicate glass, which makes them durable and ensures they can withstand high temperatures.

They are available in numerous shapes, colors and sizes – between 15 and 30 cm high, depending on personal preference.

2. Silicone Dab Rigs

Silicone dab rigs are considered to be the most convenient, portable and affordable dab rig type on the market.

Because of their flexible material, they are almost indestructible – it is almost impossible for them to break if dropped.

Most models can be fitted with glass or quartz accessories, and some can even be disassembled for easier cleaning, storage and transport.

3. Recycler Dab Rigs

Unlike a traditional dab rig, recyclers use a network of glass tubes and chambers to filter and cool the smoke without letting it linger in the smoke long enough to coat the inside of your glass dab rig.

The even movement of smoke with water also prevents you from inhaling a stale hit.

Recyclers are ideal for those who do a lot of dabs.

4. Mini Dab Rigs

The downside to mini dab rigs is that they are difficult to clean. Smaller components mean a more involved cleaning process, which can be frustrating.

However, they offer an excellent experience in a more portable format.

5. Electrical systems

With an electric dab rig, also called an e-rig, you can control your ideal temperature at the touch of a button.

E-rigs work via battery-powered heating elements, which eliminates the danger of a direct flame and simplifies the entire process.

They are also small, portable and allow for easy transportation of the pieces. For example, Fifth Ave Green House Dragon Egg.

What are the benefits of dabbing with a dab rig?

You will love dab rigs because they are a great way to consume concentrates and offer many benefits.

1. Maximum effectiveness

The concentrates you use for dabbing are much more potent than dry flower.

Flowers typically contain 15–25% THC, but concentrates contain 50–80%.

If your tolerance to cannabinoids like THC is high, dabbing with a dab rig could be a great consumption method for you.

2. More taste

By producing cannabis concentrates, the terpenes responsible for the plant's taste and aroma can be preserved and even enhanced.

Therefore, dabbing can provide a more flavorful and aromatic experience compared to smoking dried flowers.

3. Healthier

Dab rigs are undoubtedly a healthier way to consume concentrates.

When you smoke dried flowers, you expose yourself to the carcinogens contained in the smoke.

However, when dabbing, you only inhale the vaporized concentrate and no harmful chemicals.

4. Softer strokes

Dab rigs cool the vapor and filter it through water for a smoother hit, avoiding throat and lung irritation from hot vapor.

Every train will be clean and pure as long as the water is kept clean.

How to use a dab rig? Step by step guide

If you have your equipment and are ready to try dabbing, here is a step-by-step guide to dabbing.

Step 1: Add water

Add water to the chamber. Make sure there is water in each chamber and that all percs are covered for best results.

Step 2: Heat the nail

The nail is heated with the butane torch, usually for about 30 seconds, depending on the material and thickness of the nail.

You may notice a reddish glow from the hot nail when it is fully heated.

Step 3: Drop the concentrate

Once your nail is red hot, let it cool for about 30 seconds before dropping your concentrate into it using the dabber.

If you pour the concentrate in too quickly, it can explode and cause burns. Especially since your rig is made of quartz.

Step 4: Inhale steam and enjoy!

Then place the carb cap on the nail, which prevents the steam from escaping.

Allow the concentrate to evaporate and enjoy an aromatic draw through the mouthpiece until the vapor has disappeared.

How do you clean a dab rig?

If you have a glass dab rig, you can clean the glass components with isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt.

Soak the pieces for at least half an hour, then gently scrub with a brush or pipe cleaner. This can remove stubborn residue.

Finally, drain the water from your system and rinse it again with warm water.

Dab Rigs vs. Bongs: What’s the Difference?

Both bongs and dab rigs serve as water pipes for consuming cannabis, but they do so in different ways.

A bong is designed for use with dry herbs and flowers, while a dab rig or oil rig is designed for use with concentrates, waxes and oils.

Bongs feature a bowl for burning flowers, while dab rigs contain a heatable nail for vaporizing concentrates.

Diploma

If you are looking for a great dabbing experience and want to guarantee a flavorful dab with every hit, then a dab rig is the right choice.

With the large number of different models and types on the market, there is something for everyone when it comes to systems.

Additionally, if you follow the step-by-step instructions to perfectly vaporize your THC concentrate, you can indulge in a pleasant experience.

Get all the accessories, invest in good equipment, light the nail to the perfect temperature and you're ready to go.

We hope this information was helpful!