What is Dabbing? | The Beginner’s Guide to Dab Wax and Shatter

Last Updated February 16, 2021

 

Gummies. Bongs. Spliffs. An apple with a straw. There are hundreds of ways to use cannabis. One of the latest trends is dabbing. But what is dabbing, what makes it different, what are its risks, and how can you do it right?

Welcome to Dabbing 101. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about dabbing, from what it is to get your kit together.

What is Dabbing and Why is it Popular?

Most simply, dabbing is the process of smoking dabs. What are dabs, you ask? Essentially, dabs are concentrated cannabis extracts. THC, the compound in cannabis that gets you high, is distilled from the plant and turned into a sticky oil, not unlike hashish, but much, much stronger.

So why dab? Many people who dab say that the high is much stronger but less foggy. Others have experienced highs that you simply can’t get with a joint. In general, dabbing gets you higher, faster, and it can create some bonus sensations along the way.

So What Do you Need?

Let’s break down the hardware that you need for dabbing. Essentially, you need a small water pipe, a metal piece (called a “nail”) to replace the standard bowl, and a blowtorch. A regular lighter won’t do because you need a hotter, steadier flame. You’ll also need some metal instruments to grab your dab and place it on the nail.

Don’t have a blowtorch? That’s okay! People have started making electric nails that heat up, so you don’t need a blowtorch. They run a little expensive; a good one will cost you about $100, but they’re worth it if you’re making the switch to dabbing.

Anything I Should Know Before Dabbing?

Dabbing has been getting a lot of negative press in the past few years. Much of it is hysteria related to improper use or to the fact that dabbing doesn’t look much different from smoking crack. The difference, however, is that dabbing is much, much safer. That said, there are some things you should know.

First, dabs are extremely concentrated THC. While your average plant is between 15 and 30 percent THC, dabs can get as high as 90 percent, which will get you a lot higher. Knowing your limits is extremely important before trying out dabbing. If you’re someone who can get anxious smoking a joint, dabbing could give you a really bad trip.

Next, and this is especially true if you live in a place where cannabis is illegal or extremely restricted, dabs can have more than just THC in them. Some chemicals used to make the concentrated THC oil can contain anything from flammable butanes to simple carbon dioxide. If those butanes, solvents, or anything else is left in because someone didn’t make it properly, then you could end up smoking it. That may cause short- and long-term health effects.

Dabbing is a great way to get a whole new high from cannabis. Like any drug, from alcohol to something stronger, you gotta make sure you play it smart. Make sure you get the right product, the right gear, and do it right. Click here for more details.