What Is Dabbing, What Are Dabs, And What Is a Dab - Everything You Need to Know
You’ve probably heard the term 'dabbing.' No, we’re not talking about the dance move that took over the internet; this has a whole different vibe.
Although, if you want to dab after a good dab, we’re not judging.
As cannabis concentrates have become more popular over the years, dabbing has grown in popularity as well.
It’s like upgrading your snack game from chips to gourmet truffle fries.
It’s potent, flavorful, and a little more high-tech than traditional ways of smoking. So, let’s dive into what dabbing is, what dabs are, and what a dab is in detail.
What Is Dabbing?
The process of dabbing involves vaporizing cannabis concentrates to inhale their powerful effects. Think of it as the espresso shot of the cannabis world—quick, potent, and unforgettable.
Instead of burning cannabis flowers like you would in a joint or bowl, you heat a surface—like a nail or banger—until it’s blazing hot.
Then, you place a tiny amount of concentrate (a dab) onto that surface, and it vaporizes instantly. You inhale the vapor using a dab rig, a water pipe designed specifically for this purpose.
Basically, It’s for people looking for a faster, more intense high, and it’s also a favorite for its flavor and efficiency.
Not for the faint-hearted—dab responsibly, or you might find yourself debating with your houseplants.
What Are Dabs?
Cannabinoids (like THC or CBD) and terpenes are extracted from a plant to make dabs, which are highly potent. They come in different textures and forms, each offering its unique experience. Regular weed is like a light beer, and dabs are a shot of tequila—know your limits!
They are far stronger than your average cannabis flower, with THC levels often ranging between 60 - 90%. For comparison, traditional flowers typically sit between 15 - 25%. So, a little dab goes a long way.
What Is a Dab?
The word "dab" refers to the small amount of concentrate used during the dabbing process. Picture something about the size of a grain of rice—that’s usually enough to get the job done.
Yes, size matters—just a grain of rice can send you to the moon.
Because of the high potency, dabbing delivers a quicker and more intense high compared to smoking a joint or hitting a bong. It’s why seasoned cannabis enthusiasts love it.
Why Do People Love Dabbing?
There’s a reason dabbing has become a go-to for cannabis users. Here are some of its biggest perks:
- Potency - Dabs pack a serious punch. One hit wonder? It's more like one dab wonder. If you’re after fast and powerful effects, this is the way to go.
- Impression - Concentrates preserve terpenes, giving you a more flavorful hit than smoking flowers. The flavor is so good you’ll feel like a cannabis sommelier.
- Efficiency - You use less product to achieve the same (or greater) effects. Because who doesn’t love getting more bang for their bud?
- Cleanliness - No combustion means no smoke, just smooth and clean vapor.
- How Does Dabbing Work?
If you’re new to dabbing, the process might look a little intimidating, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. Like IKEA furniture, it's tricky at first, but it's totally worth it when done right.
Here’s how it works:
- Heat the nail using a torch; heat your nail or banger until it’s red hot.
- Let the nail cool for a few seconds (the exact time depends on your preferred temperature).
- Use a dab tool to place a small amount of concentrate onto the nail.
- As the concentrate vaporizes, inhale it through the dab rig.
- To maximize vapor production, cover the nail with a carb cap to regulate airflow and retain heat.
What Tools Do You Need to Dab?
To get started with dabbing, you’ll need a few essential tools. Here’s the breakdown:
- Dab Rig - A water pipe designed for concentrates.
- Nail - A surface that you heat to vaporize the concentrate.
- Dabber - A tool used to apply the dab onto the hot nail.
- Carb Cap - A cap that helps control airflow and temperature.
- Torch or eNail - A heat source for the nail. eNails are electric and eliminate the need for a torch. Torches aren’t just for crème brûlée anymore!
- A dab temp reader - A tool to see the temperature of a dab rig or concentrate surface.
What Are Dab Pens?
Dab pens are basically portable devices that allow you to enjoy concentrates on the go. Think of them as the fast food of dabbing—quick, convenient, and oh-so-satisfying. Check out Pocket Plasma Dab Pen.
They’re super user-friendly and don’t require all the extra tools and setup of a traditional dab rig. If you’re just starting out or want something more discreet, dab pens are a solid choice.
Is Dabbing Safe?
Dabbing is generally safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Start small, especially if you’re new to dabs. Unless you enjoy accidentally time-traveling to your couch. They’re much stronger than regular cannabis flowers, so it’s easy to overdo it.
- Always buy concentrates from reputable sources to ensure they’ve been properly tested for residual solvents.
- Nails and eNails can get extremely hot—up to 600°F—Avoid burns—it’s not the kind of heat you want to feel.
What Are Dabs Made Of?
Dabs are typically made from cannabis plant material that’s been processed to extract cannabinoids and terpenes. The most common method is to use butane to create butane hash oil (BHO), though some types, like rosin, are made without solvents.
How Do Dabs Differ From Weed?
While both come from the same plant, dabs and weeds are worlds apart in terms of potency, appearance, and consumption.
Weed is your laid-back buddy; dabs are the friend who gets you VIP access to the party.
Traditional weeds look like dried plant material, whereas dab resemble oils, waxes, or shatter. And because dabs are so concentrated, they deliver much stronger effects than smoking flowers.
Types of Dabs
There is a wide variety of dabs, each with a different texture and flavor profile. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Shatter is glassy and brittle; it breaks easily and offers a clean flavor.
- Budder is soft and creamy, with a smooth consistency.
- Wax is similar to budder but slightly thicker.
- Live resin is packed with terpenes for an intense taste.
- Dab oil is a liquid concentrate that’s easy to use.
Conclusion
Dabbing is an exciting way to explore cannabis, offering unparalleled potency, flavor, and efficiency.
Just remember, with great dabs comes great responsibility. Don’t be the person who overdoes it at the sesh.
Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or just curious about what dabbing is, what dabs are, what a dab is, and all the hype, understanding the basics can set you up for an enjoyable experience.
Start slow, prioritize safety, and enjoy the ride!
