How to Choose A Dab Rig

How to Choose A Dab Rig

Smoking from a dab rig (oil rig) will change the way you consume weed. One potent hit of concentrate is enough to transgress you back into the giggler you used to be when you first started smoking. 

There are a lot of bells and whistles that come with dab rigs that help you personalize the experience. However, navigating these waters can be a bit confusing for first-timers. Here are some key basics for choosing a dab rig.

Parts of A Dab Rig

There are three basic accessories necessary for using a dab rig. Each of these apparatuses influences one another and should influence your decision when buying an oil rig.

These three tools are:

1. The rig
2. Nail
3. Torch

Let’s discuss these in more detail so that you can make a better-educated decision about your dab rig purchase. 

Dab/Oil Rig

A dab rig is the main smoking instrument. It’s the glass piece that all the attachments adhere to, where the weed gets loaded, and the smoke gets enjoyed. 

To make this happen, a dab rig must consist of a:

1. Downstem – It’s where you attach the nail that combusts your concentrate, leading the vapor into the…
2. Chamber – Where water filters the hot vapors, cooling them down so that you can taste the cannabis’ flavor as it moves up the…
3. Mouthpiece – That you inhale from until your heart’s content!

There are many types of dab rigs that have unique downstems, chambers, and mouthpieces. 

The main consideration is the chamber. Most dabbers prefer a piece that can hold water. Water helps filter the vapor, which purifies your hit and also makes it taste better!

Chambers come in many sizes and shapes. A tall, thin one is great if you like to stand for your hits. However, it’s also easier to knock over than a stockier, round chamber. 

Next, you should consider the mouthpiece. Comfort and adequate suction are two key components of a good experience. For those who like to take long hits, they might want a mouthpiece with a thicker rim for better cushioning. 

Lastly, you need to think about the downstem. Some are closer to the rig, almost at a 90-degree angle. This placement is common for the taller rigs we mentioned earlier. 

For some newer dabbers who are handling a torch, this position might be too close to the glass for comfort. If that’s the case, make sure the downstem is pointing at about a 45-degree angle when you are making your purchase. 

Also, some downstems are diffusers equipped with percolators that help whip your concentrate into delicious vapors!

Nail

Your next consideration is the nail. This essential piece gets placed in the downstem. Then, you will take the torch to heat the nail. 

Once the nail reaches the desired temperature, place your concentrate on it with a dabbing tool. Immediately, the concentrate will start to bubble, combusting vapors into the chamber and into the mouthpiece for your enjoyment.

The most popular nails are quartz and titanium. Quartz heats up quicker than titanium but also cools down faster. Titanium is ideal for longer dabbing sessions and elongated drags.

Ceramic heats up the slowest and holds heat for the longest duration. This type of nail is ideal for those who enjoy the nuances of concentrate flavors. However, ceramic is also more prone to breaking than the metal options. 

Glass is also a viable and more affordable option. However, it is more prone to breaking and cools down the fastest out of the three. 

Torch

The last element of a dab rig is also vital for the experience. You need a torch to light a nail. Your flicker lighter won’t do the trick, and you’ll burn your fingers. 

A butane torch is the best option. They are easy to use, keep the flame directional, and are easy to refill. 

Different Types of Dab Rigs

Dab rigs come in many shapes and sizes. These characteristics are what make dabbing such a personal experience for millions of smokers. There is a dab for every occasion. 

Everyday Oil Rig 

Your everyday dab rig is the one you will use most often. It looks a lot like a glass bong but stands around 7-9 inches tall. Most provide filtration for cough-free hits. These pieces are easy to handle and do the trick every time.

E-rig

Not a fan of handling torches? Upgrade to an e-rig. This piece has a nail that’s controlled by electricity. The more expensive the e-rig, the more settings you will have. This allows you the chance to tailor your session so that you can enjoy the unique flavors of your concentrate and compare them on different temperature settings. 

Dab Straw

Dab straws, or nectar collectors, are excellent for on-the-go dabs. They are very simple to use. Place your concentrate in a dab container. Then, heat one end of the nectar straw. Touch the heated side to your concentrate and inhale from the other end. While efficient, this option doesn’t provide the filtration of a dab rig. 

Find the Right Dab Rig for You

Experimenting with different rigs and accessories is part of the fun dabbing. Once you find the right tools for you, the possibilities are endless. Get your beginner oil rig and start dabbing today!