Grav.Guy Info Blastoff: How To Take A Dab

An Astronauts Guide to Navigating Dabs: Part 2

The world of concentrates has expanded to great heights and if you’re just getting into it, the vast terms and product variety may seem daunting. But don’t worry! Zero Gravity is here to help!

Let’s continue our journey into the wide world of concentrates with learning how to take a dab!

What is cannabis dabbing and how do dabs work?

Dabbing is the flash vaporization of cannabis concentrates when they are applied to a hot surface and inhaled. While bud tends to test between 15-25% THC, concentrates typically range between 50-80% THC, depending on the extract type and quality. The dosing process is more delicate, but once you’ve gotten the hang of it, concentrates can offer new heights of physical relief and cerebral effects. As the saying goes, “A little dab will do ya”.

It is important to note that dabbing isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re new to cannabis entirely.

What dab tools are needed?

There are different ways to dab, but the traditional Dab Rig setup includes the following items:

• Dab rig. This water pipe is like a bong except it will have a fitting for a nail.
• Nail. This is like the bowl for your bong and where you will put the concentrate. The standard today is a quartz banger, which has a bucket shape. Ceramic and titanium are other options, and e-nails are becoming more common. Be sure to get the correct joint size, where the nail slides into the dab rig: If your rig has a 14mm stem, you need a 14mm nail. Nails can be male and female as well—you need a male nail for a female rig, and vice versa.
• Dabber. Use this tool to apply the concentrate to the nail. They can be metal, glass, or ceramic, and have many shapes: ballpoint, needlepoint, scoop, spoon, paddle, etc. Pick a shape depending on the texture and consistency of the concentrate you’re dabbing.
• Carb cap. Although not necessary, we highly recommend one of these to help regulate airflow. Combination dabber/carb caps are increasingly popular.
• Torch. Mini-torches used for crème brulee are commonly used, but you’ll have to stock up on propane for them. Again, e-nails are increasingly common (but expensive) and cut out the need for a torch.
• Cannabis extract. These come in a variety of forms, but the most common ones used for dabbing are shatter, wax, BHO, and solventless extracts like rosin.
• (Optional): Dab mat. To keep your dabbing surface clean and not sticky.
• (Optional): Timer. To ensure you heat your nail up consistently dab after dab.

How do you dab?

 Once the rig is set up and the dab is prepared on the dabber, you’re ready to get started.

• Step 1: Turn on your torch and aim the flame directly at the nail. Most people will heat the nail until it begins turning red hot. If you’re using an electronic nail, refer to the section below for more information on heating.
• Step 2: Once the nail is hot, turn off your torch. It’s recommended to let quartz nails cool for about 45 seconds (and about 10 seconds for titanium) so the surface temperature isn’t too hot—this is where a timer can come in handy. 
• Step 3: Apply the dab directly onto the nail with your dabber and begin inhaling slowly. Rotating the dabber tip on the nail can help prevent wasting any oil stuck to the dabber.
• Step 4: Cover the dab with a carb cap and finish inhaling—a cap will help regulate the airflow. Always cap your dabs.
• Step 5: Exhale and enjoy!

Safety note: Nails become extremely hot when dabbing. Take caution when handling them. Wait until all pieces cool down before touching them!!!

How to clean your nail

After a dab, carbon, reclaimed oil, and particulates can build up in the nail. A lot of people will clean their nail after each hit, but you should at least do it at the end of each session. Here are some ways to clean your nail:

• Torch. The easiest way to clean your dab nail is to heat it with your torch to burn off any residual carbon or reclaim on your nail. When applying this method to ceramic and quartz nails, be careful not to expose your red hot nail to a rapid change in temperature or you may risk a stress fracture. After your nail becomes red hot and the residue dissipates, let it cool down completely before finishing off with a final scrape.
• Scrape. For minor buildup, use a sharp dabber tool to lightly scrape your nail. Be careful not to chip any glass.
• Wash. Try soaking your nail in 91% isopropyl alcohol for 10 minutes.

 Don’t let the wide world of concentrates defer you! Check out more information on strain related concentrates on our Menu link below! And stay tuned for more Grav.Guy Info Blast Offs about Concentrates!