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Dabbing is like smoking cannabis with a bong, but instead of dried flower, the user burns a form of cannabis called an extract or concentrate. It’s called “dabbing” because the concentrates look like small blobs; even though it may not look like a lot, the high concentrations of cannabinoids will provide you with a nice high delivered in a smooth vapour.

If you’re looking to get into dabbing, here are three tips to know going into your first dab.

Gather All The Right Equipment

Dabbing doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require some specialized equipment. Dab rigs have a nail or a banger fitted into them for you to heat the material and create the smooth vapour you will inhale. The nail is the small, flat surface on which you place the dabs. You’ll find them in glass, quartz, ceramic, or titanium, though we suggest avoiding breakable glass. A banger is a circular dish, generally made with quartz,

You will also need something more powerful than an ordinary Bic lighter. A propane torch to heat the nail or banger will give the appropriate amount of heat to the nail and vapourize your concentrate. Be extra cautious when using one.

Next, get yourself a dabber; this is a tool you use to pick up concentrates and place them on the nail. Beginners should use a dabber with a spoon at the end for better control when putting a dab onto the nail or banger. 

Finally, buy a proper concentrate. Shatter, budder, honey oil, sugar, wax, rosin, resin – the list of products you can use is very long! Concentrates come from a variety of extraction methods that impact their purity, potency, and consistency. Always purchase your dabs from a reputable source!

Control Your Inhale

One of the benefits of dabbing is how it gives you better control over the dosage. You can manage how much you consume during a session. In this vein, it’s necessary to note that you don’t have to inhale the vapour as deeply or for as long as you would ordinarily inhale smoke from a joint or bowl. 

If you’re dabbing for the first time, take a hit and wait five minutes to see how you react to it. Generally, the effects start almost immediately, but they won’t reach their peak until after five or 10 minutes.

Steady Yourself And Expect A Lot

Like we mentioned in the intro, dabs don’t look like a lot, so you might be tempted to use a lot. However, make sure you start with a small amount of wax, shatter, or budder for your first time. The best way to enjoy dabs is to start small, take it slow, and set your expectations. It’s the best way to feel in control!

Always remember that dabs are concentrated cannabinoids, and they usually have a minimum of 70% THC or CBD. It doesn’t take a lot to get high, and the high you do get will be pretty intense. When used in a safe, comfortable environment, the experience is unlike any other!