Dabbing is a method of consuming cannabis concentrates that has gained popularity in recent years. If you’re new to dabbing, it can seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually a relatively simple process once you understand the basics. In this beginner’s guide to dabbing, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started.
What is Dabbing?
Dabbing is a method of consuming weed concentrates that involves heating a small amount of concentrate (also known as a dab) on a hot surface, typically a nail made of quartz, titanium, or ceramic. The heated concentrate vaporizes, and the resulting vapor is inhaled through a dab rig or vaporizer.
Types of Concentrates
There are several types of cannabis concentrates that can be used for dabbing. Some of the most common include:
- Shatter: Shatter is a type of cannabis concentrate that is known for its glass-like appearance and high potency. It is a translucent or opaque substance that is hard and brittle at room temperature and can easily shatter into small pieces when touched. Shatter is made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant using a solvent, such as butane or CO2. The resulting concentrate is then purged of any remaining solvent to produce a pure, high-quality product.
Due to its high concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes, shatter is known for its potent effects and is typically recommended for experienced cannabis users. It can provide intense and long-lasting effects, making it a popular choice among medical cannabis patients who are seeking relief from severe pain or other symptoms. - Wax: Wax is a type of cannabis concentrate that is similar to shatter but has a softer, more malleable texture. It is a potent form of cannabis that is made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant using a solvent, such as butane or CO2, and then purging the solvent to produce a concentrated form of cannabis oil.
Wax is typically consumed by dabbing, which involves heating a small amount of the concentrate on a hot surface, such as a nail made of quartz, titanium, or ceramic, and inhaling the resulting vapor through a dab rig or vaporizer. Wax can also be used to “top off” a bowl of cannabis flower or mixed into edibles for a potent and long-lasting effect.
Wax is known for its high potency and can contain up to 90% THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. It can provide intense and long-lasting effects, making it a popular choice among medical cannabis patients who are seeking relief from severe pain or other symptoms. - Budder: Cannabis budder, also known as “budder wax” or simply “budder,” is a type of cannabis concentrate that is similar to wax but has a creamy, butter-like texture. It is a potent form of cannabis that is made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant using a solvent, such as butane or CO2, and then whipping the resulting oil into a smooth and creamy consistency.
Budder is typically consumed by dabbing, which involves heating a small amount of the concentrate on a hot surface, such as a nail made of quartz, titanium, or ceramic, and inhaling the resulting vapor through a dab rig or vaporizer. Budder can also be used to “top off” a bowl of cannabis flower or mixed into edibles for a potent and long-lasting effect.
Budder is known for its high potency and can contain up to 90% THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. It can provide intense and long-lasting effects, making it a popular choice among medical cannabis patients who are seeking relief from severe pain or other symptoms. - Crumble: Crumble, also known as “honeycomb wax” or “crumble wax,” is a type of cannabis concentrate that is similar to wax but has a crumbly, brittle texture that is easy to break apart. It is a potent form of cannabis that is made by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant using a solvent, such as butane or CO2, and then purging the solvent to produce a concentrated form of cannabis oil. Crumble gets its name from its texture, which is similar to that of crumbly cheese or cookie crumbs. It is usually opaque and has a light tan or yellow color, but it can also be darker or even green in color, depending on the extraction method and the quality of the starting material.
Crumble is typically consumed by dabbing, which involves heating a small amount of the concentrate on a hot surface, such as a nail made of quartz, titanium, or ceramic, and inhaling the resulting vapor through a dab rig or vaporizer. Crumble can also be used to “top off” a bowl of cannabis flower or mixed into edibles for a potent and long-lasting effect.
Crumble is known for its high potency and can contain up to 90% THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. It can provide intense and long-lasting effects, making it a popular choice among medical cannabis patients who are seeking relief from severe pain or other symptoms. - Rosin: Rosin, also known as “rosin tech” or “rosin press,” is a type of cannabis concentrate that is made without the use of solvents, such as butane or CO2. Instead, it is made by applying heat and pressure to the cannabis plant, causing the trichomes (the resin glands on the plant) to release their oil and create a sticky, resinous substance. Rosin is typically made using a rosin press, which applies heat and pressure to a small amount of cannabis flower or hash, using a specialized press that squeezes the material between two heated plates. The heat and pressure cause the trichomes to burst and release their oils, which then stick to the parchment paper that is placed under the material.
The resulting rosin is a sticky, sap-like substance that is usually light amber in color and has a powerful aroma and flavor. It is very potent, containing up to 80% THC or more, and can provide intense and long-lasting effects. Rosin can be consumed in a variety of ways, including dabbing, vaporizing, or adding it to a joint or bowl of cannabis flower. Because it is made without the use of solvents, rosin is considered a safer and healthier option than other types of cannabis concentrates, as it does not contain any residual solvents or other harmful chemicals.
Preparing for Dabbing
Before you start dabbing, you’ll need to gather some supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Dab rig: A dab rig is a specialized water pipe that’s designed for dabbing. It typically consists of a glass water pipe, a nail, and a dome or carb cap.
- Nail: The nail is the part of the dab rig that you heat up and use to vaporize the concentrate. There are several types of nails to choose from, including quartz, titanium, and ceramic.
- Torch: You’ll need a torch to heat up the nail. A butane torch is the most common type of torch used for dabbing.
- Dab tool: You’ll need a dab tool to handle the concentrate and place it on the nail. Dab tools come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose.
- Concentrate: Choose a concentrate that you want to use for dabbing. Start with a small amount until you get the hang of it.
How to Dab
- Heat the nail: Use the torch to heat the nail until it’s red hot. Let it cool for a few seconds until it’s no longer glowing.
- Place the concentrate on the nail: Use the dab tool to place a small amount of concentrate on the nail. Be careful not to touch the hot nail with the dab tool.
- Inhale: Place the dome or carb cap over the nail and inhale through the mouthpiece of the dab rig. If you’re using a vaporizer, simply inhale through the mouthpiece.
- Exhale: Exhale the vapor and enjoy the effects of the concentrate.
Tips for Dabbing
- Start with a small amount: Dabbing can be very potent, so start with a small amount of concentrate until you know how it affects you.
- Use high-quality concentrates: Choose high-quality concentrates that have been properly processed and tested for purity.
- Keep the nail clean: Clean the nail regularly to prevent buildup and ensure optimal flavor.
- Experiment with different temperatures: Try different temperatures to find the sweet spot that works best for you.
Conclusion
Dabbing is a great way to consume cannabis concentrates, but it’s important to approach it with caution, especially if you’re new to it. Make sure to gather all the necessary supplies, start with a small amount of concentrate, and take it slow.
