How to Dab: A Step-By-Step Video Guide

by Gabi A

Imagine this: You find yourself intrigued by the enigmatic allure of dabbing. What is it exactly? Dabbing involves experiencing the concentrated potency of cannabis extracts in a single, powerful inhale. It’s like embarking on a flavor-packed voyage that sends you soaring high to cloud nine. From loading your concentrates onto the heated surface to savoring the exhilarating vapor, we’ll be your companion, sprinkling insight along the way through this blog. So, let’s learn how to dab the easy way.

What is Dabbing?

Dabbing is a popular method of consuming cannabis concentrates that has gained traction recently. While traditional methods like smoking joints or using a pipe involve combusting the cannabis flower, dabbing takes a different approach by vaporizing highly concentrated extracts.

Cannabis concentrates used in dabbing are made through extraction that isolates the plant’s potent cannabinoids, such as THC or CBD. The result is a sticky, gooey substance with a much higher concentration of these compounds as compared to regular cannabis flowers. Depending on its consistency, this concentrated form is commonly referred to as wax, shatter, budder, or oil.

Solvent, Solventless Vs. Solvent-Free Cannabis Extracts

Talking about cannabis extracts, different methods of extraction can be used to obtain the desired compounds. Here’s a breakdown of the three main categories: solvent, solventless, and solvent-free cannabis extracts.

Bento dab cannabis products

Solvent Extracts

  • Solvent extracts is basically using a liquid, such as butane or CO2, to dissolve the cannabinoids and other desirable components from the cannabis plant material.
  • Common solvent-based extracts include shatter, wax, and oil.
  • Solvents are used to strip the plant material of cannabinoids and terpenes, creating a concentrated form of the desired compounds.

Solventless Extracts

  • As the name suggests, solventless extracts are obtained without solvents.
  • These extracts rely on mechanical methods or heat and pressure to separate the trichomes from the plant material.
  • Popular solventless extracts are rosin, hash, and dry sift.
  • Solventless extraction methods produce a purer and more natural end product since no solvents are involved.
  • They may not yield as high a concentration of cannabinoids compared to solvent-based extracts.

Solvent-Free Extracts

  • They are similar to solventless extracts but go a step further in removing any traces of solvents.
  • This category often includes products like live resin, sauce, or full-spectrum extracts.
  • Solvent-free extracts are obtained through specialized extraction processes that aim to retain the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes while removing any solvents used in the extraction.
  • These extracts have a more robust and flavorful profile as they preserve a more comprehensive range of the plant’s natural compounds.

Read more: Shatter vs Badder vs Resin – Know Your Cannabis Concentrates

How to Dab: Dabbing Tutorial for Beginners

When it comes to dabbing, you have two popular techniques: cold starting and hot starting. Cold starting involves placing your concentrates in a cool banger and gradually heating it, while hot starting is all about heating the banger first and then adding the concentrates.

So, are you ready to learn how to dab like a pro? Let’s get you prepped with everything you’ll need on your journey, followed by a step-by-step process.

Equipment Needed

  • Dab rig
  • Banger
  • Dabber
  • Dab mat
  • Torch lighter
  • Carb cap
  • Q-tips
  • Concentrates

How to Dab: Cold Starting

Master the cold start dab technique and elevate your dabbing experience.

Product used: SFV OG Sugar by Bento

Step 1: Gather your equipment

Ensure you have all the necessary equipment, including a dab rig, banger, dabber tool, carb cap, concentrate of your choice, and a torch lighter.

Grassdoor dab rig and accessories

Step 2: Prepare your dab

Start with a small amount of SFV OG Sugar by Bento, commonly referred to as a “dab.” Use your dabber tool to pick up the dab (sugar), ensuring it’s a manageable size for your first experience.

Dab being placed in the cold banger.

Step 3: Load the dab

Gently place the dab into the cold banger. There’s no need to preheat the banger at this point.

Torch lighter and cannabis banger

Step 4: Heat the banger

Put the carb cap on. Use the torch lighter to heat the banger until the concentrates bubble.

Cannabis torch lighter

Step 5: Start inhaling

Begin inhaling gently from the dab rig’s mouthpiece while heating the bottom of the banger with the torch lighter. You should see the vapor rising as the concentrate begins to melt and vaporize.

Step 6: Adjust heat as needed

While inhaling, you can continue applying heat to the bottom of the banger to maintain the desired temperature.

Step 7: Clean up

After each dab, gently clean your warm banger by wiping it or using a Q-tip. This practice guarantees a clean and prepared banger for your next delightful dabbing session.

How to Dab: Hot Starting

Quite similar to cold starting with just a small twist, let’s learn how to hot start dab.

Product Used: Any quality resin or rosin butter will do

Step 1: Gather your equipment

Follow the same process as you did with cold start dab.

Step 2: Heat the banger

Use a torch lighter to preheat the banger. Aim the torch flame directly at the bottom of the banger focusing on the surface area for 30 seconds. 

Cannabis torch lighter

Step 3: Let the banger cool down

After heating, allow the banger to cool for a few seconds to avoid excessively hot vapor. Set the timer to 45 seconds after heating the banger.

Smartphone with timer screen

Step 4: Prepare the dab

Using your dabber tool, place a small amount of rosin butter onto the hot banger after the timer goes off. And let it melt off your tool.

Grassdoor dab rig accessory

Complete the hot start dab ritual by inhaling, exhaling, and tidying up your dab rig for a satisfying and hassle-free dabbing experience.

Dabbing Vs. Smoking a Joint

Dabbing involves vaporizing concentrated cannabis extracts, known as dabs, using a specialized device called a dab rig. Dabs are highly potent and provide a more intense and immediate effect than smoking a joint. 

It can be cost-effective since a small amount of dab can go a long way due to its concentrated nature. It’s a preferred choice for canna lovers seeking powerful and fast-acting effects. 

On the other hand, smoking a joint is a more traditional method of consumption. It involves rolling ground cannabis flower into a rolling paper, creating a classic hand-rolled cigarette shape. Joints are typically less potent since they contain the whole cannabis flower. 

Joint smoking offers a more gradual and mellow high compared to the rapid onset of dabbing. It’s an easy and portable option that requires no extra equipment. Folks love joints for fun social settings and casual enjoyment.

Dabbing the Right Way: Tips for Beginners

Getting started with dabbing can be exciting, but it’s helpful to keep a few pointers in mind. Here are some tips for beginners to make your first-time dabbing experience fun:

Start With the Basics

Begin by familiarizing yourself with the necessary equipment: a dab rig, nail banger, dabber tool, and torch lighter. Opt for a simple dab rig (small-sized for easier handling) that suits your preferences and budget. 

Choose Beginner-Friendly Concentrates

It’s best to begin with concentrates that are easier to work with, such as shatter or wax. These concentrates are more stable and can be easily handled and dabbed.

Quality Matters

Look for reputable brands and sources that prioritize safety and purity. Ensure the concentrate has a desirable aroma, appearance, and texture to enhance your dabbing experience.

Start with Small Dabs

Dabbing is potent, so start with small amounts of concentrate to gauge your tolerance and find the correct dosage. You can always increase the dose gradually as you become more comfortable.

Experiment with Temperature

Temperature significantly affects the flavor and intensity of your dab. Start with lower temperatures to experience the full flavor profile. As you gain experience, you can try different temperature ranges to find your preferred dabbing experience.

Practice Patience

Dabbing requires patience and finesse. Take your time to heat the banger properly and allow it to cool before dabbing. Rushing the process can result in an unpleasant experience or wasted concentrates.

Explore Different Concentrates

Once you become more familiar with dabbing, you can gradually explore other concentrates like live resin, rosin, or sauce. These concentrates offer different flavors, textures, and effects, allowing you to expand your dabbing repertoire.

Clean Your Dab Rig

Residue buildup can affect the quality of your dabs. Regularly clean your dab rig to maintain optimal flavor and performance. Use isopropyl alcohol, cotton swabs, and pipe cleaners to clean the various parts of your rig.

Dabbing Demystified

Now you know how to dab like a true pro, mastering the art of inhaling concentrated cannabis goodness with style and flair. Gather your friends, light up that torch, and show them how to dab like nobody’s business. Become the dabbing guru you were destined to be, spreading joy, laughter, and a cloud of fragrant vapor wherever you go.

Suppose you need high-quality concentrates to fuel your dabbing adventures. In that case, we’re proud to offer an extensive menu of premium concentrates that will take your dabbing experience to the next level. From flavorful shatters and waxes to exquisite live resin and rosin, our selection will satisfy even the most discerning dabbing enthusiasts. So, if you’re on the hunt for top-notch concentrates, check out our menu.

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