In the realm of herbal intake, concentrates are the emerging trendsetters. Even though concentrates have a history that dates back thousands of years, its benefits, particularly those involving vaporization, are only recently gaining recognition. Vaporization through concentrates offers a healthier, more enriched flavor profile. The shift in perception is largely attributed to the advent of wax and oil pens, which have prompted many users to explore more substantial, stationary variants of concentrate vaporization.
What’s a Dab Rig?
A dab rig, often referred to as an oil rig or vapor rig, is a specific type of smoking device used for oils, concentrates, or wax. It works by heating the concentrates to an extremely high temperature, turning them into vapor, which is then inhaled.
The design of a small dab rig is similar to a bong, but there are several unique features exclusive to custom dab rigs. The main components of a typical dab rig include a glass piece, a nail, a dome, a torch, and a dabber.
The glass piece is the main body of the dab rig. It usually features a water filtration system that cools down the vapor before it is inhaled, making the experience smoother and more enjoyable. The glass piece can come in various shapes and sizes, from simple and straightforward designs to more intricate and artistic ones.
The nail is the part of the custom dab rig where the concentrates are placed. It is typically made of quartz, titanium, or ceramic due to their ability to withstand high temperatures. Quartz nails are the most popular because they heat up quickly and provide a clean taste. Titanium nails are more durable but can alter the flavor of the concentrates. Ceramic nails take longer to heat but retain heat well and do not affect the taste of the concentrates.
The dome is a glass hood placed over the nail. It captures the vapor produced by the heated concentrates and directs it into the body of the dab rig. However, some dab rigs come with domeless nails where the vapor is directly inhaled from the nail.
The torch is used to heat the nail. Butane torches are commonly used because they can quickly reach the high temperatures needed to vaporize the concentrates. Some advanced dab rigs feature electronic nails that can be heated using electricity, eliminating the need for a torch.
The dabber is a tool used to apply the concentrates onto the nail. It is usually made of glass, metal, or ceramic. The dabber should be heat-resistant and easy to handle.
Dab Rig Filtration Systems
Dab rigs are often characterized by their complex filtration systems, designed to compensate for their smaller size compared to traditional bongs, while delivering hits at significantly higher temperatures. Some custom dab rigs incorporate showerhead or barrel percolators, while others, known as recyclers, employ a more advanced approach. Recyclers include multiple interconnected chambers, usually with a percolator situated in the lower chamber. This structure facilitates the upward movement of water into the upper chamber via the percolator, which is then released back into the primary chamber through a connecting tube. This cyclical process effectively recycles the water and smoke, maintaining a constant flow.
These recycling chambers also serve as a splashguard, ensuring that water does not reach your mouth, regardless of the intensity of your hit on the miniature rig. Consequently, users are guaranteed smooth, cooled, and filtered dabs, devoid of any undesirable, tar-infused water.
How to Choose the Right Dab Rig?
If you’re on the hunt for an electric dab rig and feeling overwhelmed by the choices, or unsure about where to begin, take into account the following aspects…
Budget / Price:
Unless your recent cannabis experience led you to stumble upon a mythical money plant, your budget is a crucial factor to consider.
The price spectrum for dab rigs is wide, starting as low as $20 and soaring into the hundreds based on the intricacy of the setup and personalization.
Although the initial investment may seem steep, it’s essential to bear in mind that a robust dab rig can serve you for many years, offering intense and high-quality smoking experiences that other smoking methods cannot match.
the Ideal Dab Rig:
Next, ensure you’re focusing on the correct type of product. A dab rig can be quickly identified by examining the “gender” of the joint – if it’s male and includes a dome, it’s specifically for dabbing. If it’s “female,” it’s likely a standard water pipe. However, it’s worth mentioning that you can buy nails (and other accessories) to transform your regular water pipe into a dab rig.
How Does a Dab Rig Work?
In essence, using a rig, we transform our THC concentrate into vapor by heating it with a torch to achieve high temperatures. The rig subsequently fills with vapor, which we inhale to experience a smooth, flavorful euphoria. The rig features its own receptacle, known as a nail or a banger, where the wax is placed.
Instead of igniting the concentrate as with traditional dry herb, you heat the banger, which triggers the wax to vaporize, enabling a smooth inhalation. The nail is generally comprised of glass, but occasionally silicone or other materials, meaning it must be capable of enduring extremely high temperatures.
Step-by-Step Guide to Dabbing with a Rig
The primary objective with any cannabis consumption is to achieve the optimal euphoria, so it’s essential to understand the most effective method for heating your wax via the rig’s nail. Below is a step-by-step guide to enhance your experience:
1. Initially, once you have your rig and concentrate, place a minuscule amount of the concentrate onto your dabber using a tool commonly referred to as a dab claw. For beginners, I suggest placing a small amount on the claw.
2. Subsequently, activate your torch and direct it towards the nail’s center to heat it. The duration required to reach the ideal temperature varies based on the rig’s size and material, but the nail should turn a red-hot color once it’s adequately heated. This is typically between 315 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit to optimize the flavor and potency of the hit.
3. Once your nail is red-hot, allow it to cool slightly before introducing your wax with the dabber. A useful guideline is the 30 to 30 rule, which involves heating your nail for 30 seconds and allowing it to cool for approximately 30 seconds. If you introduce the concentrate too rapidly, it could lead to an explosion and potential burns. If your rig is made of quartz, it’s particularly crucial to wait those 30 seconds for it to cool down.
4. Following this, prepare for your hit by placing the cap on the nail, allow the concentrate to vaporize, and enjoy a flavorful inhalation until the vapor dissipates. If you’re a novice to cannabis use and dabbing, ensure to inhale a minimal amount. You want to avoid overwhelming your body and experiencing any potential adverse effects! Bear in mind that the impact of dabs is significantly stronger compared to smoking dry herb, which will be evident in the high.
5. Finally, allow the rig to cool slightly, then use a q-tip to clean the nail, maintaining its cleanliness.
In conclusion
Dab rigs have gained popularity in recent years due to their efficiency and the intense experience they provide. They allow users to consume concentrates in a more controlled manner, providing a potent and flavorful experience. However, using a dab rig requires some practice and knowledge. It is important to heat the nail to the right temperature to avoid burning the concentrates and to use the right amount of product to avoid waste.
Additionally, it’s crucial to maintain and clean your dab rig regularly. Residue from the concentrates can build up over time, affecting the performance of the rig and the taste of the vapor.
To sum up, a custom dab rig is a powerful tool for consuming concentrates. Its unique design and function allow for a potent and flavorful experience. However, it requires a certain level of knowledge and skill to use effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned dabber or a beginner, understanding the function and care of each component of your dab rig will help ensure you get the most out of your concentrates.