You're inquiring about dabbing but don’t know where to start; this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through everything—from choosing your first rig to taking your very first dab safely and confidently. While this guide focuses on beginners, for a comprehensive comparison of dab rigs and bongs, you can explore our main guide: Dab Rigs vs. Bongs: What’s the Difference & Which Is Right for You?
A dab rig is a specialized water pipe designed for vaporizing cannabis concentrates — not for burning dry herb like a traditional bong. Although dab rigs may resemble bongs in appearance, dab rigs use a nail or banger instead of a bowl and instead of lighting ignited with a lighter, they require exposure to high temperatures, typically produced by a torch or e-rig.
Dab rigs are highly appropriate for consuming wax, shatter, rosin, and budder, as they provide a cleaner, more efficient, and flavor-enhancing experience compared to conventional methods.
Cannabis concentrates have become progressively popular — and with good reason. Here's why more users are switching from dry herb to dabbing:
Concentrates are extremely strong — often containing 70–90% THC, compared to the 15–25% range found in flower. That means a little dab goes a long way.
Dabbing vaporizes instead of combusts. That means you avoid inhaling burnt plant material and instead get smooth, clean vapor.
The lower-temperature vaporization preserves terpenes, delivering richer, tastier hits than combustion.
Since concentrates are potent, you end up using less product over time, making dabbing cost-effective in the long run.
Before you start dabbing, it helps to know what goes into a dab rig setup. Here’s a breakdown of the components:
|
Component |
Description |
|
Rig/Base |
The main water pipe body |
|
Nail/Banger |
The heated surface where concentrates are placed |
|
Torch |
Heats the nail (unless using an electric rig) |
|
Covers the banger to trap vapor and improve airflow |
|
|
Dab Tool |
A metal or glass implement used to apply concentrate |
|
Optional Add-ons |
Reclaim catcher, silicone mat, isopropyl cleaner |
Fill the base with enough water to filter vapor but not so much that it splashes into your mouth.
Use a butane torch to heat the banger until it glows red. If using an e-rig, adjust the temp digitally.
This step is crucial. If the banger is too hot, it will burn off terpenes. Wait until the surface cools to about 500–600°F (or use an infrared thermometer).
Use your dab tool to scoop a small amount (grain-of-rice size) of concentrate. Touch it to the banger while inhaling.
Place the carb cap on top and rotate it slightly to improve airflow and vaporization.
Take slow, steady inhales and exhale gently.
Related: How to Take a Low-Temp Dab — for better flavor and smoother experience.
Picking your first dab rig doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here are a few things to consider:
Mini rigs are great for flavor and portability.
Standard rigs are easier to clean and cool better but are bulkier.
Traditional rigs require a torch, but offer full control.
E-rigs (like Puffco Peak or Carta) provide set temps and are beginner-friendly.
Explore E-Rigs vs. Traditional Dab Rigs to compare pros and cons in detail.
Quartz: Best for flavor, fast heat-up.
Titanium: Durable and retains heat longer.
Ceramic: Clean flavor, but fragile.
Discover our diverse selection of Dab Rig Nails & Bangers.
Dabbing involves high temperatures, so safety is key — especially for beginners.
Dab rigs and torches should be placed on flat, heat-resistant surfaces.
Don’t use a torch near flammable objects. Turn it off immediately after use.
Too-hot nails can damage your rig and destroy cannabinoids. Learn proper cooldown timing or use a timer.
Isopropyl alcohol and Q-tips can prevent buildup and keep your rig performing safely.
Learn more: How to Clean Your Dab Rig Like a Pro.
After each dab, use a Q-tip to clean residue from the banger. This prevents charring and keeps flavor fresh.
Soak your rig and banger in 91–99% isopropyl alcohol
Use coarse salt to scrub tough spots
Rinse thoroughly with warm water
Learn more: How to Clean Your Dab Rig Like a Pro
Dabbing at too high a temp (burns terpenes, harsh vapor)
Using too much concentrate (wasteful and overwhelming)
Skipping the carb cap (poor vapor quality)
Buying a rig that's too advanced for your needs
Neglecting cleaning — a dirty rig ruins the experience
A: Between 500–600°F is ideal for low-temp dabs. Use a timer or IR thermometer for accuracy.
A: Technically yes, with a nail adapter — but it’s not ideal. Use a proper dab rig for best results.
A: Start with wax or shatter. They’re easier to handle and widely available.
A: It depends on tolerance, but typically 1–3 hours. Effects kick in almost instantly.
Dabbing may seem complicated at first, but once you get used to it, it becomes completely natural. Focus on quality over quantity, keep your setup clean, and start with low doses to find your comfort zone.
If you're ready to explore the world of concentrates, dab rigs offer a powerful, flavorful, and efficient way to enjoy your sessions.