Dabbing is the process of vaporizing cannabis concentrates on a heated surface and inhaling the vapor. It's one of the most efficient and flavorful ways to consume cannabis, delivering potent effects and rich terpene flavors that flower alone can't match. If you've been curious about concentrates but felt intimidated by the equipment or process, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started safely and enjoyably.
What You Need to Start Dabbing
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dab rig or e-rig | Water pipe designed for concentrates, or electronic device with built-in heating |
| Banger or nail | The heated surface where the concentrate is placed (quartz, titanium, or ceramic) |
| Torch or e-nail | Heat source for the banger (butane torch for traditional rigs, built-in for e-rigs) |
| Dab tool | Metal or glass tool for handling sticky concentrates |
| Carb cap | Cap placed over the banger to control airflow and improve vaporization |
| Timer | For timing the cool-down after heating (important for temperature control) |
| Cannabis concentrate | Live resin, rosin, wax, shatter, badder, or diamonds |
Traditional Rig vs E-Rig
Traditional dab rigs use a torch to heat a quartz or titanium banger. The user heats the banger until it glows, waits for it to cool to the desired temperature, then applies the concentrate. Traditional rigs offer the most control over temperature and produce excellent flavor, but they require a torch and some practice to master the timing.
Electronic rigs (e-rigs) like the Puffco Peak or Dr. Dabber eliminate the torch entirely. You load the concentrate into a heated chamber, select a temperature setting, and the device handles the rest. E-rigs are more beginner-friendly, more portable, and safer since there's no open flame. The trade-off is slightly less temperature precision and the need to charge the battery.
For beginners, an e-rig is the recommended starting point. The built-in temperature control removes the guesswork and reduces the risk of burning the concentrate at too high a temperature.
Temperature Guide
Low temp (400–500°F): Maximum flavor, smooth vapor, smaller clouds. Best for terpene-rich concentrates like live resin and rosin where you want to taste every nuance of the strain profile. Low-temp dabs are gentler on the throat and lungs.
Medium temp (500–600°F): Balanced flavor and vapor production. A good all-around range for daily consumers who want strong effects without sacrificing flavor entirely. Most e-rigs default to this range.
High temp (600–700°F): Maximum vapor production, intense effects, less flavor detail. High-temp dabs can be harsh on the throat and may cause coughing. Generally not recommended for beginners or for premium concentrates where you'd be burning off valuable terpenes.
Step-by-Step: How to Take a Dab
Step 1: Add water to your dab rig (enough to cover the percolator slits but not so much that it splashes into your mouth when inhaling). For e-rigs, follow the manufacturer's instructions for water filling.
Step 2: Using your dab tool, scoop a small amount of concentrate. For beginners, start with a piece roughly the size of a grain of rice. You can always take more; you can't take less once consumed.
Step 3: If using a torch, heat the banger until it glows slightly, then let it cool for 30 to 60 seconds (the exact time depends on the thickness of the banger). If using an e-rig, select your temperature and wait for it to reach the target.
Step 4: Touch the concentrate to the heated surface while inhaling slowly through the mouthpiece. Use the carb cap to cover the banger, which lowers the air pressure and allows the concentrate to vaporize more completely at lower temperatures.
Step 5: Inhale slowly and steadily. Concentrate vapor is more potent than flower smoke, so a smaller inhale goes further. Exhale and wait several minutes to assess the effects before considering another dab.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After each dab session, use a cotton swab to wipe out the banger while it's still warm. This removes residual concentrate and prevents carbon buildup that degrades flavor over time. For deeper cleaning, soak the banger in isopropyl alcohol for 30 minutes and rinse with warm water. E-rig chambers should be cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically after every 10 to 15 sessions.
Where to Buy Dab Concentrates in NYC
Quality Control Dispensary carries a selection of dab-ready concentrates at both locations, including live resin, wax, badder, and diamonds. Browse our Brooklyn concentrates menu and Staten Island concentrates menu for current inventory. Our budtenders can help you choose the right concentrate for your experience level and preferred consumption method. Same-day delivery is available.
Responsible Use: Cannabis affects everyone differently. Start with a low dose and increase gradually. Must be 21+ to purchase. Quality Control Dispensary products are NYS-licensed and lab-tested.