Dab Bongs

Dab bongs, also known as dab rigs, are specialized water pipes designed for consuming cannabis concentrates such as wax, shatter, or oil. While similar to traditional water pipe bongs, dab bongs are equipped with specific features to handle the unique requirements of vaporizing concentrates. Dab bongs are typically made from high-quality glass that can withstand the high temperatures required to heat up wax, shatter, and oil. There are many different bong types to choose from, but if you’re looking for one that specifically functions for smoking wax and oil, a dab bong will likely be the best option.

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Components of Dab Bongs

While dab bongs may have some similar components and comparable functions to water bongs, they are structurally a bit different. The key components of dab bongs include a nail/banger, dome/carb cap, and a percolator. Additionally, you’ll need a torch and dab tool. Rather than the bowl that is used on water pipe bongs, dab bongs use a nail or banger, which is heated to high temperatures to vaporize the concentrate. Nails are typically made from glass (most commonly), quartz, titanium, or ceramic. Some dab setups include a dome cap that fits over the nail to help contain the vapor, but plenty of setups also use carb caps that allow the user to control airflow and improve vaporization efficiency. 

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Similarly to traditional water bongs, dab bongs typically have percolators to filter and cool the vapor, which thus provides a smoother and less harsh inhalation experience. When using a dab bong, you’ll need a butane torch to heat the nail or banger to the desired temperature. Additionally, it’s best to use a dab tool that can be used to apply the concentrate onto the hot nail or banger. As opposed to smoking dry herb, you’ll need to heat a dab bong to a much higher temperature to achieve a smooth hit that doesn’t waste product. When mastered, using a dab bong offers a clean, pleasurable smoking experience for experienced users. 

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Using a Dab Bong

Using a dab bong can take a few tries to master successfully. To use a dab bong, first heat the nail or banger with a torch until it is red-hot. Allow it to cool off for a few seconds to reach an optimal temperature (300-400°F for low-temp dabs, up to 600°F for high-temp dabs). Next, use your dab tool to apply a small amount of concentrate onto the heated nail in a timely manner. Inhale the vapor through the mouthpiece of your dab bong while using a dome/carb cap to regulate the airflow as well as maximize vapor production. Exhale the vapor as you would any other dry herb and enjoy the peaceful effects!

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Advantages and Considerations of Dab Bongs

Dab bongs can offer more intense and pure flavors from concentrates as opposed to traditional dry herbs. Concentrates are significantly more potent than dry herbs, so they can also provide a stronger effect enjoyed by experienced cannabis consumers. Many also find that using concentrates can be more efficient than burning dry herbs, as it typically requires less material for the desired effect. While there are many benefits to using a dab bong, temperature control is a drawback for some consumers. Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial to the smoking experience, and you can easily waste product by under or overheating your nail. Too hot and you’ll burn your throat and the concentrate, and too cool will mean that it may not vaporize fully. To ensure good flavor, it’s also recommended to regularly clean your rig by soaking it with isopropyl alcohol or market bong cleaner. Take good care of your dab bong and accessories, as dab setups can be pricey.