If you’re interested in smoking cannabis concentrate, you’ll want to know how to use a dab rig. Concentrated doses of cannabis are also known as wax, shatter, BHO, and budder. The method of consumption is ideal for delivering clean, potent doses of THC quickly.

To use a dab rig, you’ll need water, a dab tool, and a torch. The rig itself is comprised of a chamber, a down stem, and a mouthpiece, so it looks similar to a water pipe. However, there is no smoking bowl.

Concentrates are often gentler on the lungs as the extraction method uses butane or carbon dioxide. The wax doesn’t contain plant material to be combusted and inhaled.

Instead of the bowl, there is usually a dome and a nail. There are customizable options for dab rigs, including using an e-nail to avoid using a torch or a domeless nail to allow for a larger hit at a lower temperature. With time, you’ll know how to achieve the best taste and most effective high for you.

How to Use a Dab Rig in 7 Steps:

Step 1: Season

Season the titanium nail, if you’re using your rig for the first time. If you don’t have an e-nail, you’ll need to treat your nail to remove leftover manufacturing debris on the nail. This process also improves taste and makes it easier to keep your concentrate on the nail. To season, use the torch to heat the nail until it is red in color. Wait for it to cool, then repeat that a few times.

Step 2: Water

Add water to the dab through the mouthpiece, filling up the chamber shared by the down stem. The water should reach nearly to the middle of the water chamber, similar to a bong. If the water hit your lips when you gently inhale through the mouthpiece, pour a little out.

Step 3: Scoop

With your dab tool, also known as a dabber or scalpel, scoop out a small dab of concentrate out of the container. Keep it handy, as you’ll be enjoying the wax soon.

Step 4: Heat the Nail

Use the torch to heat up the nail, then wait for a few seconds to ensure it is cooled to under 365 degrees.

Step 5: Get Ready

Place the dome over the nail, and grab your dab of wax.

Step 6: Inhale

Hold the dab up to the nail to heat the wax, swirling it slowly as you inhale smoothly. The sensation can feel gentler than a bong hit, but don’t take another hit immediately. Use a cloth to remove the dome while it’s still hot.

Step 7: Relax.

Dab rigs offer deceptively strong hits. That’s why those who may suffer from chronic pain or lung conditions may prefer this delivery method of THC. It’s also ideal for those who have built up a strong tolerance to cannabis and prefer a faster method.

Dabs are gaining in popularity as more people have a greater understanding of how to use the equipment for dabbing. With many cannabis concentrates on the market today, there is a growing variety to sample and enjoy.