Dabbing 101: A Beginner's Guide to Concentrates and Dabbing

If you've been around the cannabis community lately, you've probably heard terms like "dabs," "dabbing," "wax," or "shatter" being thrown around. These terms refer to a method of consuming concentrated cannabis extracts that has grown tremendously in popularity over the past few years. But what exactly is dabbing, how does it work, and is it something you might want to try? This guide will walk you through the basics of dabbing to help you understand this increasingly common consumption method.

What Are Dabs?

Simply put, dabs are concentrated forms of cannabis that are extracted from the plant using a solvent like butane, carbon dioxide, or ethanol. These extracts—sometimes called "concentrates"—contain highly concentrated amounts of the active compounds found in cannabis, particularly THC, CBD, and terpenes (the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinctive smell and contribute to its effects).

Think of it this way: if traditional cannabis flower typically contains around 15-25% THC, concentrates can contain anywhere from 60% to over 90% THC. This significantly higher potency is why dabbing has become popular among those seeking stronger effects or medical patients requiring more immediate relief.

Common Types of Cannabis Concentrates

Before diving into the dabbing process, it's helpful to understand the different types of concentrates you might encounter:

Shatter

Glass-like in appearance, shatter is a translucent concentrate that can literally shatter like glass when broken apart. It typically has a golden amber color and is one of the purest forms of concentrate.

Wax

As the name suggests, wax concentrates have a texture similar to candle wax. They're opaque and less stable than shatter but often easier to handle and measure for beginners.

Budder/Badder

With a consistency similar to butter or cake batter, this concentrate is whipped during processing to create a smooth, creamy texture that's easy to work with.

Live Resin

Made from fresh-frozen cannabis plants rather than dried and cured flower, live resin preserves more of the plant's original terpene profile, resulting in more flavorful dabs.

Rosin

Unlike most other concentrates, rosin is extracted without solvents, using only heat and pressure. This makes it appealing to those concerned about residual solvents in their concentrates.

Crumble

Drier and more brittle than wax, crumble has a—you guessed it—crumbly texture that falls apart easily.

Diamonds

These crystalline formations contain extremely high levels of THCA (which converts to THC when heated) and are often suspended in a terpene-rich sauce.

What Equipment Do You Need for Dabbing?

Dabbing requires specialized equipment that's different from what you'd use for smoking flower. Here's what a basic dabbing setup includes:

Dab Rig

This is essentially a specialized water pipe designed specifically for dabbing. While it resembles a traditional bong, it's configured differently to accommodate concentrates instead of flower.

Nail or Banger

Instead of a bowl for flower, dab rigs use a "nail" or "banger" (usually made of quartz, titanium, or glass) where you'll place your concentrate. This piece gets heated and serves as the surface on which the concentrate is vaporized.

Dabber Tool

This small tool (typically metal or glass) is used to apply the concentrate to the heated nail. It allows you to handle sticky concentrates without making a mess.

Carb Cap

After placing the concentrate on the heated nail, a carb cap is placed over the nail to help regulate airflow and maintain the optimal temperature for vaporization.

Torch

A small butane torch is traditionally used to heat the nail to the desired temperature. (Electric e-nails that eliminate the need for a torch are becoming increasingly popular as well.)

Optional: Temperature Gun

For more precise temperature control, some enthusiasts use infrared temperature guns to measure the surface temperature of their nail before dabbing.

How Does Dabbing Work?

The basic process of dabbing involves:

1. Heating the nail: Using a torch, you heat the nail until it reaches the desired temperature (typically between 350°F-750°F, depending on preference).

2. Cooling period: Allow the nail to cool to the optimal temperature. Too hot, and you'll burn your concentrate, creating a harsh experience; too cool, and it won't vaporize properly.

3. Applying the concentrate: Using your dabber tool, place a small amount of concentrate onto the heated nail.

4. Inhaling: As the concentrate vaporizes on contact with the hot nail, you inhale the vapor through the rig.

5. Capping (optional): Place a carb cap over the nail to help regulate airflow and maximize vapor production.

   
   

The Evolution: Electronic Dabbing Devices

Traditional dabbing with a torch can be intimidating for beginners, which has led to the development of electronic dabbing devices that simplify the process:

E-Nails

These electronic heating elements attach to your existing dab rig and maintain a consistent temperature, eliminating the need for a torch.

Dab Pens

Portable vaporizers specifically designed for concentrates, these battery-powered devices heat your concentrate to the ideal temperature with the push of a button.

Electronic Dab Rigs

All-in-one devices that combine the functionality of a traditional dab rig with electronic temperature control, offering ease of use and portability.

Benefits and Considerations of Dabbing

Potential Benefits

• Potency: The high concentration of cannabinoids provides strong effects with smaller amounts.

• Flavor: High-quality concentrates often preserve more terpenes, offering a more flavorful experience.

• Efficiency: Dabbing can be more efficient than smoking flower, as more of the active compounds are preserved during vaporization.

• Reduced Smoke: Proper dabbing produces vapor rather than smoke, which some users find less harsh on their lungs.

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Important Considerations

• Potency: The high THC content can be overwhelming for inexperienced users. Start with very small amounts (often called "micro-dabs").

• Learning Curve: The equipment and process can be intimidating and takes practice to master.

• Cost: Quality dabbing equipment and concentrates can be expensive upfront, though they may be more economical in the long run.

• Safety: Using a torch requires caution, and the high temperatures involved can cause burns if you're not careful.

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Tips for First-Time Dabbers

If you're interested in trying dabbing for the first time, here are some helpful tips:

1. Start small: Begin with a concentrate amount about the size of a crumb or grain of rice.

2. Consider temperature: Lower temperatures (around 350°F-450°F) provide better flavor and a smoother experience for beginners.

3. Try electronic options: Consider starting with an electronic device like a dab pen or e-rig to simplify the process.

4. Watch and learn: If possible, have an experienced friend demonstrate the process first, or watch tutorial videos online.

5. Quality matters: Invest in properly produced concentrates from reputable sources to ensure a clean, enjoyable experience.

6. Stay hydrated: Keep water handy—dabbing can cause dry mouth more intensely than other consumption methods.

7. Be patient: There's a learning curve to dabbing, so don't get discouraged if your first few attempts aren't perfect.

Dabbing with Hemp-Derived Concentrates (i.e. the shit we sell)

While traditional cannabis concentrates aren't available everywhere, hemp-derived concentrates offer a legal alternative perfect for dabbing. At 8 Oasis, we specialize in these federally compliant options that deliver excellent experiences through the same dabbing methods.

Popular Hemp Concentrates for Dabbing

THCA Concentrates: When heated during dabbing, THCA converts to delta-9 THC, providing powerful effects while remaining legally compliant in their pre-heated form.

Delta-8 THC Concentrates: Available as wax, shatter, and diamonds, delta-8 provides a milder experience that many find perfect for daytime use.

HHC Concentrates: Offering effects between delta-8 and delta-9 THC, HHC concentrates come in various textures and strain varieties.

CBD Concentrates: For those seeking therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects, CBD concentrates offer potent relief with more immediate onset when dabbed.

Why Choose Hemp Concentrates for Dabbing?

• Legal accessibility in areas where traditional cannabis remains prohibited

• Varied experiences from different cannabinoids

• Precise dosing for more controlled effects

• Rich flavors from preserved terpene profiles

• Rapid onset comparable to traditional concentrates

Even though these products are hemp-derived, they still offer potent effects, so remember to start with a very small amount and use lower temperatures for the best experience. Our staff can help you select the perfect hemp concentrate and suggest dabbing setups that work well with our products.

Visit 8 Oasis to explore the world of hemp concentrates and discover a legal way to enjoy the full dabbing experience!

The Bottom Line

Dabbing offers a unique way to consume cannabis concentrates that many enthusiasts appreciate for its potency, flavor, and efficiency. While the equipment and process might seem complicated at first, many find that the learning curve is worth the experience.

If you're curious about trying dabbing, stop by our shop to check out our selection of quality concentrates and dabbing equipment. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to answer questions and help beginners find the right products to start their dabbing journey.

Remember, as with any cannabis consumption method, moderation is key—especially with concentrates. Start low, go slow, and gradually find the experience that works best for you.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. Always follow local laws regarding cannabis and cannabis concentrates. The potency of concentrates means they should be approached with caution, especially by newcomers to cannabis.