Weed money is best spent on weed. But the tools used to consume it are an equally important investment for the everyday smoker - and especially those who want to make each and every one of their hits as powerful as possible. If you're tired of your bong and want to see what other pot accessories can do, let us introduce you to the bong's lesser-known cousin: the dab rig.
What Is a Dab Rig?
A dab rig, also referred to as an oil rig or concentrate pipe, is an apparatus specially designed for the consumption of cannabis concentrates. It is similar to a traditional water pipe or bong but is specifically designed for the use of concentrates, making it more efficient and effective.
How Dab Rigs Work
Ready to head back to science class? If only they taught lessons in a context like this - we'd all have gotten better grades in high school. Dab rigs work by heating up concentrate to its vaporization point, which is usually between 150 and 200 degrees Celsius (or 300 to 392 degrees Fahrenheit for our friends who measure temperature in Freedom units). The resulting gas then passes through a water chamber and into your lungs when you inhale.
The Anatomy of a Dab Rig
Need things illustrated a little better? If you've never seen one before, dab rigs typically consist of three main components: a water chamber, a nail, and a dome. The water chamber is similar to that of a bong - filled with water to help cool and filter the vapor. The nail, which is usually made of quartz or titanium, is the surface where the concentrate is placed and heated. The dome covers the nail and helps contain the vapor before you breathe it in.
Do You Really Need a Dab Rig?
Torches. High temperatures. Potent cannabis concentrate. It sounds like a recipe for either an amazing night of euphoria or a disaster waiting to happen. The unknown is what stops most people from exploring the world of dabbing - what if I do it wrong? What if I burn myself? What if I waste my concentrate?
Is a dab rig really worth it?
The answer to the last question is an absolute yes, while the concerns outlined in the first three are all easily avoidable.
Dab rigs provide a smooth and flavorful experience that can't be matched by any other consumption method. The effects of dabbing are immediate and potent, making it a popular choice for medical patients who need quick relief. Plus, using a dab rig is more discreet than smoking - there's no smoke or lingering odor.
To say it in the style of the CDC, the benefits outweigh the risks. You'll just need to familiarize yourself with a slightly different piece of equipment.
Choosing the Right Dab Rig for You
Now that we have a good understanding of how dab rigs work and why they're worth your time, let's talk about choosing the right one. Like with any smoking method, there are endless sizes, shapes, materials, and designs to choose from. The best place to start is height. While society likes to idolize apparatus length in multiple respects, shorter rigs are actually more effective when it comes to dabbing.
Dab smoke stales much more quickly than the normal flower kind, so a shorter nail-to-mouthpiece distance helps maintain the flavor and potency of each hit. Many options available today measure six inches tall or less - more than enough for a good time. You can also opt for something bigger if a 13-inch glass piece is more your style.
Just like height, there is plenty of variety in dab rig style and material. The overall shape of the rig can range from classic beaker-style to more intricate and artistic designs. From graffiti to metallic tint, there's something for everyone. As for material, glass is the most popular choice due to its ability to retain heat well and not affect flavor. You can also find silicone dab rigs and even ones that have special fittings for a leak-proof smoking experience.
Recreational marijuana use is all about adventure. What better way to honor that spirit than by trying out different ways to consume your favorite plant? Dab rigs provide a unique and potent smoking experience that is worth exploring. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or new to the game, there's no better time than now to expand your horizons and give dab rigs a try.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What's the difference between a dab rig and a bong?
While they may look similar, there are some key differences between dab rigs and bongs. The main difference is the temperature at which they operate - while bongs rely on an open flame to ignite dry herb, dab rigs use a heated surface to vaporize concentrates.
Are dab rigs hard to clean?
Not any more than your regular bong. Cannabis accessory manufacturers are thoughtful in the way they design dab rigs to make cleaning as easy and efficient as possible. Look for features like removable parts, specialized cleaners, and even built-in percolators that help filter out residue.
Do I need any special tools or accessories for dabbing?
Yes - but these items are relatively easy to find and often come included with your dab rig purchase. Depending on the type of concentrate you're using, you may need a dabber (a small tool used to apply the concentrate onto the heated surface), a torch or heating element, and a carb cap (used to regulate airflow). You may also want to invest in some cleaning supplies specifically designed for dab rigs.
