How to Dab Like a Pro:
Tools, Temperature, and Technique
Class is in sesh, and so are you!
Does dabbing have you dumbfounded?
When it comes to dabbing, there are no "wrong" ways to do it. However, there are certainly more than a few "right" ways! And, as you'll find, folks can be quite passionate about their technique of choice.
Read more to learn how to serve yourself the perfect dose, from cold start to high temp!
Dabbing Techniques: From Caveman to Scientist
Over the years, many of our fellow dabbers have blazed the trails for us-- so there’s no need for guesswork. Which style you choose will ultimately be up to your preference, but we suggest trying all of them in order to hone in on your dabbing decisions!
For your research, here are step-by-step instructions for each technique!
IMPORTANT NOTE:
You will need a portable butane torch to light concentrates, as regular lighters do not get hot enough (not relevant for electronically-heated dabbing options).
Low Temp Technique
Low Temp Technique
Why We Do It:
Low temp provides a much more gentle form of vapor than high heat, which is better for sensitive lungs. In addition to being an easier pull, the lower heat will provide enhanced flavor and give you more access to the terpene profile.
How It's Done:
-
Ignite your blowtorch and use safety feature to keep flame triggered. Heat your banger with the torch for approximately 20-45 seconds. Make sure to heat all sides and angles of your banger evenly.
-
Wait about 30-60 seconds for the banger’s temperature to reduce to approximately (315–450°F).
-
Once you’ve waited for the banger to cool down, insert your dabber tool (with concentrate on it) and allow the concentrate to pool inside of the banger.
-
Remove the dabber tool.
-
Place a carb cap on top of your banger, and inhale.
Why We Do It:
Low temp provides a much more gentle form of vapor than high heat, which is better for sensitive lungs. In addition to being an easier pull, the lower heat will provide enhanced flavor and give you more access to the terpene profile.
How It's Done:
-
Ignite your blowtorch and use safety feature to keep flame triggered. Heat your banger with the torch for approximately 20-45 seconds. Make sure to heat all sides and angles of your banger evenly.
-
Wait about 30-60 seconds for the banger’s temperature to reduce to approximately (315–450°F).
-
Once you’ve waited for the banger to cool down, insert your dabber tool (with concentrate on it) and allow the concentrate to pool inside of the banger.
-
Remove the dabber tool.
-
Place a carb cap on top of your banger, and inhale.
Cold Start Technique
Cold Start Technique
Why We Do It:
Similar to low heat, cold starts provide a much more gentle form of vapor than high heat, which is better for your lungs.
How It's Done:
-
Insert your dabber tool (with concentrate) into your unheated banger and get as much concentrate off of the tool as you can. Remove dabber.
-
Place your carb cap on your banger
-
Ignite your torch and use safety feature to keep flame triggered. Heat your banger with the torch for approximately 20-45 seconds. Make sure to heat all sides and angles of your banger evenly.
-
Wait about 30-45 seconds for the banger’s temperature to reduce.
-
Inhale and watch the concentrate begin to vaporize!
Why We Do It:
Similar to low heat, cold starts provide a much more gentle form of vapor than high heat, which is better for your lungs.
How It's Done:
-
Insert your dabber tool (with concentrate) into your unheated banger and get as much concentrate off of the tool as you can. Remove dabber.
-
Place your carb cap on your banger
-
Ignite your torch and use safety feature to keep flame triggered. Heat your banger with the torch for approximately 20-45 seconds. Make sure to heat all sides and angles of your banger evenly.
-
Wait about 30-45 seconds for the banger’s temperature to reduce.
-
Inhale and watch the concentrate begin to vaporize!
Low Temp + Terp Pearls
Low Temp + Terp Pearls
Why We Do It:
Using terp pearls with low heat has similar benefits to the previous dabbing options (better for your lungs + enhanced flavor)
How It's Done:
-
NOTE: you will need terp pearls
-
Place two terp pearls into your empty banger
-
Add the concentrate with your dabber tool
-
Ignite your torch and use safety feature to keep flame triggered. Heat your banger with the torch for approximately 20-45 seconds. Make sure to heat the part of the banger that the pearls are located, as well as the rest of the angles
-
Put on a carb cap (a spinner cap will work best)
-
Let the banger cool
-
Inhale gently!
Why We Do It:
Using terp pearls with low heat has similar benefits to the previous dabbing options (better for your lungs + enhanced flavor)
How It's Done:
-
NOTE: you will need terp pearls
-
Place two terp pearls into your empty banger
-
Add the concentrate with your dabber tool
-
Ignite your torch and use safety feature to keep flame triggered. Heat your banger with the torch for approximately 20-45 seconds. Make sure to heat the part of the banger that the pearls are located, as well as the rest of the angles
-
Put on a carb cap (a spinner cap will work best)
-
Let the banger cool
-
Inhale gently!
High Temp Technique
High Temp Technique
Why We Do It:
High heat is how it all started! It ensures 100% vaporization and the most direct hit. It's the easiest to do and is harsh but effective.
How It's Done:
-
Ignite torch and use safety feature to keep the flame triggered. Heat your banger until it glows a bright orange color, this should mean it is currently around (500–600°F).
-
Wait (or don’t) until it cools to your preferred temperature, then insert your dabber with concentrate and inhale.
Why We Do It:
High heat is how it all started! It ensures 100% vaporization and the most direct hit. It's the easiest to do and is harsh but effective.
How It's Done:
-
Ignite torch and use safety feature to keep the flame triggered. Heat your banger until it glows a bright orange color, this should mean it is currently around (500–600°F).
-
Wait (or don’t) until it cools to your preferred temperature, then insert your dabber with concentrate and inhale.
E-Nail Technique
E-Nail Technique
Why We Do It:
Using an e-nail removes the hassle of the butane torch from the equation and offers one of the most foolproof methods for consuming concentrates.
How It's Done:
-
Apply your e-nail’s heating element to your banger, and insert your banger into the rig.
-
Set your desired heat on the E-Nail’s digital readout, between 315-600 degrees, depending on whether you prefer high or low heat dabs.
-
While allowing your banger to warm up, apply your concentrate to your dabber tool.
-
Once your e-nail has informed you that your banger is at the correct temperature, insert your concentrate-coated dabber tool, and inhale.
Why We Do It:
Using an e-nail removes the hassle of the butane torch from the equation and offers one of the most foolproof methods for consuming concentrates.
How It's Done:
-
Apply your e-nail’s heating element to your banger, and insert your banger into the rig.
-
Set your desired heat on the E-Nail’s digital readout, between 315-600 degrees, depending on whether you prefer high or low heat dabs.
-
While allowing your banger to warm up, apply your concentrate to your dabber tool.
-
Once your e-nail has informed you that your banger is at the correct temperature, insert your concentrate-coated dabber tool, and inhale.
Cart Adaptor or E-Rig Technique
Cart Adaptor or E-Rig Technique
Why We Do It:
If the e-nail was still too much for you, this new generation of electronic solutions cuts out the need for a heating element entirely--by offering all of those features in the same small device.
How It's Done:
-
Load your 14/18mm cart/wax adaptor onto the joint of your Rig.
-
Depending on the model, either draw to pull, or activate by pressing the button on the side.
-
Pull your rip, and enjoy!
Why We Do It:
If the e-nail was still too much for you, this new generation of electronic solutions cuts out the need for a heating element entirely--by offering all of those features in the same small device.
How It's Done:
-
Load your 14/18mm cart/wax adaptor onto the joint of your Rig.
-
Depending on the model, either draw to pull, or activate by pressing the button on the side.
-
Pull your rip, and enjoy!
Different Concentrates, Different Vibes
Different Concentrates, Different Vibes
Knowing your cannabis concentrates is crucial unless you enjoy playing Russian roulette with your weekend plans.
The truth: No one wants to explain to their cat why they’re suddenly philosophizing about the functionality of Cheetos in society. Stay educated—it’s the difference between a chill vibe and being swallowed by your own couch.
Knowing your cannabis concentrates is crucial unless you enjoy playing Russian roulette with your weekend plans.
The truth: No one wants to explain to their cat why they’re suddenly philosophizing about the functionality of Cheetos in society. Stay educated—it’s the difference between a chill vibe and being swallowed by your own couch.
Wax
What is it?
Wax is opaque with a soft, crumbly texture (kind of like honeycomb).
How is it best enjoyed?
Vaporize in a Banger or portable rig at 315-450°F for best flavor and feeling. Can be mixed into a flower bowl for an extra pop of potency.
Butter (Budder)
What is it?
Butter has a whipped, creamy consistency (which should not surprise you given the name)
How is it best enjoyed?
Best used with a banger at 315-450°F. A favorite for low temp fans.
Shatter
What is it?
Shatter is glass-like, fragile, and translucent form of BHO extract with a brittle texture.
How is it best enjoyed?
Best used with a banger at 315-450°F for flavor preservation.
Live Resin
What is it?
Live resin is saucy or waxy in consistency, but is made from fresh-frozen plants. This means it has high terpenes and high potency.
How is it best enjoyed?
Optimal when vaped at 315-450°F for terp retention. Great for bangers, and e-nails.
Sauce
What is it?
Sauce is a terpene-rich liquid made with THCA diamonds.
How is it best enjoyed?
Consume at high heat between 450-500°F to melt the diamonds. For those who enjoy a red-hot banger over cold start.
Diamonds
What is it?
Diamonds are large THCA crystals that often appear as clear rocks (perfect for when you want to flex your stash).
How is it best enjoyed?
Requires higher heat for concentrate to fully decarb: between 500-600°F. A favorite amongst high-heat dab enthusiasts.
Wax
What is it?
Wax is opaque with a soft, crumbly texture (kind of like honeycomb).
How is it best enjoyed?
Vaporize in a Banger or portable rig at 315-450°F for best flavor and feeling. Can be mixed into a flower bowl for an extra pop of potency.
Butter (Budder)
What is it?
Butter has a whipped, creamy consistency (which should not surprise you given the name)
How is it best enjoyed?
Best used with a banger at 315-450°F. A favorite for low temp fans.
Shatter
What is it?
Shatter is glass-like, fragile, and translucent form of BHO extract with a brittle texture.
How is it best enjoyed?
Best used with a banger at 315-450°F for flavor preservation.
Live Resin
What is it?
Live resin is saucy or waxy in consistency, but is made from fresh-frozen plants. This means it has high terpenes and high potency.
How is it best enjoyed?
Optimal when vaped at 315-450°F for terp retention. Great for bangers, and e-nails.
Sauce
What is it?
Sauce is a terpene-rich liquid made with THCA diamonds.
How is it best enjoyed?
Consume at high heat between 450-500°F to melt the diamonds. For those who enjoy a red-hot banger over cold start.
Diamonds
What is it?
Diamonds are large THCA crystals that often appear as clear rocks (perfect for when you want to flex your stash).
How is it best enjoyed?
Requires higher heat for concentrate to fully decarb: between 500-600°F. A favorite amongst high-heat dab enthusiasts.
Which Dab Technique is Right for Me?
Which Dab Technique is Right for Me?
Choosing the "best" way to dab depends entirely on what you value most: flavor, potency, or convenience. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide which method to load into your Prism Rig ;)
IF YOU ARE...
-
A Flavor Chaser :
Maybe you spent a little extra on high-end Live Resin or Rosin, so go with a Cold Start. By heating the concentrate and glass together, you hit the "sweet spot" of vaporization instantly, preserving the delicate terpene profile before it has a chance to burn.
-
A Smooth Operator :
If you have sensitive lungs but want a big cloud, this is your go-to. The Terp Pearls provide extra surface area, allowing you to vaporize more oil at a lower temperature (315–450°F), resulting in a silky-smooth hit that doesn’t sacrifice cloud size.
-
A Power User :
If you’re dabbing THCA Diamonds or large "globs" where 100% vaporization is the goal, a higher temp (500°F+) ensures nothing is left behind. Just be ready—this method is "Caveman style" for a reason; it’s harsh but heavy-hitting.
-
ATech Enthusiast :
If you hate the guesswork of a torch or want to dial in an exact degree (like 375°F every single time), electronic solutions offer the most consistent, foolproof experience for daily sessions.
Choosing the "best" way to dab depends entirely on what you value most: flavor, potency, or convenience. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide which method to load into your Prism Rig ;)
IF YOU ARE...
-
A Flavor Chaser :
Maybe you spent a little extra on high-end Live Resin or Rosin, so go with a Cold Start. By heating the concentrate and glass together, you hit the "sweet spot" of vaporization instantly, preserving the delicate terpene profile before it has a chance to burn.
-
A Smooth Operator :
If you have sensitive lungs but want a big cloud, this is your go-to. The Terp Pearls provide extra surface area, allowing you to vaporize more oil at a lower temperature (315–450°F), resulting in a silky-smooth hit that doesn’t sacrifice cloud size.
-
A Power User :
If you’re dabbing THCA Diamonds or large "globs" where 100% vaporization is the goal, a higher temp (500°F+) ensures nothing is left behind. Just be ready—this method is "Caveman style" for a reason; it’s harsh but heavy-hitting.
-
ATech Enthusiast :
If you hate the guesswork of a torch or want to dial in an exact degree (like 375°F every single time), electronic solutions offer the most consistent, foolproof experience for daily sessions.
Maintaining Your Dab Rig
Maintaining Your Dab Rig
Dab rigs demand TLC—like any flower piece, but stickier. Concentrates leave behind clingy residue, so be sure to change the water after every sesh to avoid science-experiment floaties.
Dab rigs demand TLC—like any flower piece, but stickier. Concentrates leave behind clingy residue, so be sure to change the water after every sesh to avoid science-experiment floaties.
For deep cleans, grab salt + Isopropyl Alcohol (the same thing you'd use for flower gear) AND Prism Cleaning Caps!! Shake your rig like it owes you money, rinse, and attack stubborn gunk with a brush (no judgment if it’s a repurposed toothbrush).
For deep cleans, grab salt + Isopropyl Alcohol (the same thing you'd use for flower gear) AND Prism Cleaning Caps!! Shake your rig like it owes you money, rinse, and attack stubborn gunk with a brush (no judgment if it’s a repurposed toothbrush).
⚠️ Pro-Tip:
The above method nukes reclaim. If you’re a thrifty dabber, skip the salt! ISO-only cleaning lets you rescue that golden goo for making your own edibles. Your wallet (and sweet tooth) will thank you.
⚠️ Pro-Tip:
The above method nukes reclaim. If you’re a thrifty dabber, skip the salt! ISO-only cleaning lets you rescue that golden goo for making your own edibles. Your wallet (and sweet tooth) will thank you.
What the Heck is"Chazzing" & How to Avoid it:
What the Heck is"Chazzing" & How to Avoid it:
“Chazzing” (noun):
“Chazzing” (noun):
"When your quartz banger looks like it survived a zombie apocalypse. Caused by overheating or forgetting to swab."
"When your quartz banger looks like it survived a zombie apocalypse. Caused by overheating or forgetting to swab."
How to prevent “Chazzing”:
-
Swab after every dab! Use a dry cotton swab first, then one dipped in ISO. Think of it as a spa day for your banger.
-
Avoid overheating. If your banger glows like a lightsaber, you’ve gone full Anakin Skywalker. Use a carb cap or e-nail to keep temps between 315–600°F (depending on your concentrate diva's demands).
-
Never “torch clean” your banger. Burning off residue is like using a flamethrower to dust your bookshelf—effective but stupid.
How to fix a "chazzed" banger:
-
Soak it in ISO overnight.
-
Gently scrub with a quartz-safe brush.
-
If it’s still ugly, embrace it as a “patina” and tell your friends it’s vintage.
How to prevent “Chazzing”:
-
Swab after every dab! Use a dry cotton swab first, then one dipped in ISO. Think of it as a spa day for your banger.
-
Avoid overheating. If your banger glows like a lightsaber, you’ve gone full Anakin Skywalker. Use a carb cap or e-nail to keep temps between 315–600°F (depending on your concentrate diva's demands).
-
Never “torch clean” your banger. Burning off residue is like using a flamethrower to dust your bookshelf—effective but stupid.
How to fix a "chazzed" banger:
-
Soak it in ISO overnight.
-
Gently scrub with a quartz-safe brush.
-
If it’s still ugly, embrace it as a “patina” and tell your friends it’s vintage.
Reclaim: The Dab Equivalent of Leftover Pizza
Reclaim: The Dab Equivalent of Leftover Pizza
"Reclaim" (noun and verb)
"Reclaim" (noun and verb)
"The sticky, amber-colored leftovers in your rig. It’s not glamorous, but it’s free (kinda)".
"The sticky, amber-colored leftovers in your rig. It’s not glamorous, but it’s free (kinda)".
Here’s how to recycle dab reclaim without ending up on Hoarders:
Collect it: Allow your reclaim to build by using concentrates, and once you have enough, dissolve it with high-proof ISO.
Purge it: Let the ISO evaporate completely (we’re talking days, not hours).
Use it: Dab it again (flavor? Nah. Potency? Sure!).
Eat it: Bake into edibles or brew into a tincture.
Here’s how to recycle dab reclaim without ending up on Hoarders:
Collect it: Allow your reclaim to build by using concentrates, and once you have enough, dissolve it with high-proof ISO.
Purge it: Let the ISO evaporate completely (we’re talking days, not hours).
Use it: Dab it again (flavor? Nah. Potency? Sure!).
Eat it: Bake into edibles or brew into a tincture.
Should I Use Terp Pearls?
Should I Use Terp Pearls?
Terp Pearls are small borosilicate or quartz spheres that sit inside your banger to increase the surface area and heat retention of your nail. When paired with a Directional or Spinner Carb Cap, the airflow causes the pearls to spin rapidly, pushing the concentrate around the banger.
This constant motion prevents "puddling" and ensures that every bit of your wax or live resin is vaporized evenly at a lower, more consistent temperature.
The best part: watching them spin like a record after every big rip!
Terp Pearls are small borosilicate or quartz spheres that sit inside your banger to increase the surface area and heat retention of your nail. When paired with a Directional or Spinner Carb Cap, the airflow causes the pearls to spin rapidly, pushing the concentrate around the banger.
This constant motion prevents "puddling" and ensures that every bit of your wax or live resin is vaporized evenly at a lower, more consistent temperature.
The best part: watching them spin like a record after every big rip!
CHECK OUT OUR 3D CUSTOM BONG BUILDER!
WANT A BONG THAT WILL GIVE YOU A SMOOTH HIT?
CHECK OUT OUR 3D CUSTOM BONG BUILDER AND DESIGN ONE WITH A PERCOLATOR AND/OR A PERCOLATED BEAKER BASE FOR THE SMOOTHEST BONG EVA!
