Dabbing 101: What First-Time Users Need To Know

The use of marijuana has evolved over the years, and the current trend is dabbing, which involves dabs or concentrates. In simple terms, dabbing involves using dabs or highly concentrated doses of the cannabis extract. The extract, a highly concentrated form of cannabis, undergoes heating to high temperatures and inhaling the vaporized oil via a rig, delivering a potent hit. However, dabbing can be complex if you’re a beginner.

If it’s your first attempt at dabbing, the array of options available can be overwhelming. With this in mind, it’s crucial to as a good starting point when selecting your dab starter kit.

If you want to level up your cannabis use and make the most out of its benefits, it’s crucial to know the basics of dabbing. Here are the things first-time users need to know about dabbing.

What Is A Dab?

For starters, a dab is a highly concentrated or potent form of cannabis, usually containing a higher amount of THC. The production involves extracting tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive element, and other cannabinoids using various solvents. The result is a tacky residue with varying forms depending on the extraction method and solvent used.

What Is Dabbing, And Why Should You Try It?

In dabbing, you heat a metal or quartz nail to a high temperature and place a small amount of concentrate, so it evaporates into a gas. The concentrate transforms into gas ready for inhalation via a dab rig. The dab rig is one of the essential tools in dabbing.

One of the main reasons for the increasing preference for dabbing is the potent hit it provides. Some have grown to love dabbing for its unadulterated flavor, unlike the other methods of consuming cannabis. If you have been using for its health benefits but are eager to level up your experience, the high THC content in dabs or concentrates may be worth considering.

Additionally, the dabs are heated at a lower temperature, making dabbing an excellent option for individuals who don’t smoke. This is because the low heat allows you to enjoy a smooth draw that’s less irritating than smoking.

Dabbing is popular due to its ability to produce satisfying results with a small amount. Due to the high level of , you only need to use a small amount to achieve the desired effect. With this in mind, it is important to control the amount you use, especially if it’s your first time.

What Are The Basic Dabbing Tools?

Among the various ways to use cannabis, dabbing requires you to invest in several tools. It can be challenging for first-time users, but starting with the basics would suffice. Once you have the right tools, dabbing will be a breeze. Here is a comprehensive list of essential tools for your first dabbing session:

  1. Dab Rig

As mentioned earlier, a dab rig plays a vital role in dabbing. It looks similar to a bong but with a slight difference. At the end of a bong, it’s equipped with a bowl where you place the herb. A dab rig comprises three basic components: the mouthpiece, the chamber, and the dab nail. Today, dab rigs are available in varying sizes and shapes. Finding the right one will boil down to one’s personal preference.

  1. Dab Or Concentrate

One of the essentials of dabbing is the . It can be in the form of honey, wax, shatter, and crumble, to name a few. When buying dabs for the first time, it’s best to look for a licensed retailer. It’s crucial to remember that the raw material should be superior in quality. It should be appropriately made as well as have a high THC content.

  1. Dab Nail

A dab rig is built with a dab nail that seamlessly fits into or over the joint. Generally, it has an elongated neck with a flat platform. When using a dab rig, insert the nail, heat it to a high temperature, and dab your concentrate.

  1. Torch

A torch is essential in a dab rig set. A handheld butane torch will come in handy for heating the nail to a suitable temperature.

  1. Dabbing Tool

Due to the sticky nature of the dabs or concentrates, you need a dabbing tool or dabber. It takes the form of a miniature spoon that allows you to scoop up the concentrate and apply it to the nail.

  1. Carb Cap

A carburetor or carb cap covers the nail as you inhale the vapor. It works by minimizing the airflow to the nail, ensuring the dabs boil to optimal levels. Doing so provides you with flavorful and dense smoke.

How To Dab The Right Way

Once you have all the necessary dabbing tools, you’re now ready to try out dabbing. If it’s your first time, the following steps will guide you.

  • Get your concentrate or dab ready on your dabber. If it’s your first attempt at dabbing, use a small amount. An amount similar to a pencil’s tip can be a good start.
  • Your torch should also be ready, switch it on and aim directly at the nail. In most cases, heat the nail until it turns bright red. Once it turns red, allow the nail to cool for around 10 to 15 seconds to avoid creating vapor scorching for your lungs.
  • With your dabber containing the concentrate, touch it to the nail. The concentrate will vaporize if you do this. As the vapor starts to form, draw on your rig’s mouthpiece.
  • The last step is to exhale the vapor. As you inhale the vapor, it can give you a potent hit. For first-timers, it may be best to do your session seated.

After taking a dab, make sure you always have water on hand. is the key to ensuring a good dabbing experience.

What To Do After Dabbing?

Once you’re successful with your first dabbing session, there are also aftercare tips to keep in mind, especially the cleaning.

Depending on the frequency of your dabbing session, you’ll apply dabs to your nail and inhale them via your rig, so it’s likely for some residual oil to build up. Clean your dab rig and tools after every session. Doing so will ensure your rig is ready without worrying about any alterations to the flavor during your future sessions.

Final Thoughts

Dabbing may be worth a try if you want to level up how you use cannabis. If you’re eager to try dabbing, it’s crucial to be ready with the right tools and know how to do it right. Fortunately, these valuable pointers will serve as a guide for first-timers and ensure an excellent dabbing experience. Remember, though, that each individual will have specific preferences while dabbing. For that reason, it may be best to experiment until you find a setup that best fits your specific needs and provides the ideal dabbing experience.