Dab Rig
A dab rig is a specialized water pipe designed specifically for vaporizing concentrates. Instead of a bowl for flower, it uses a banger or nail that you heat to high temperatures, then apply concentrate for instant vaporization.
Key features:
- Smaller chamber size optimizes vapor delivery
- Fitted with bangers or nails instead of bowls
- Water filtration cools and smooths vapor
- Joint sizes (10 mm, 14 mm, 18 mm) determine banger compatibility
- Often includes percolators for additional filtration
Size matters differently with dab rigs than with flower water pipes. Smaller chambers preserve flavor — vapor doesn't sit and cool as long before you inhale it. This keeps terpene profiles intact and delivers more flavorful hits. Most dab rigs stand 6-10 inches tall, while mini rigs are smaller, and larger pieces exist for those with specific preferences.
The joint is where your banger attaches. Joint angle (45° or 90°) affects ergonomics and how you position your dab tool during use. A 90° joint points straight up, which some people find more intuitive. A 45° joint angles outward, which can make carb cap placement easier. Either works — it's about what feels natural to you.
Percolation in dab rigs is more subtle than in flower pieces. Too much diffusion can actually strip terpenes and affect flavor. Quality dab rigs strike a balance between filtration (for smooth vapor) and flavor preservation (minimal diffusion). Common perc styles include simple downstems, single-hole percs, and minimal-diffusion designs.
Building your dab station: Start with your rig, then add a banger that matches your joint size and angle. You'll need a torch (butane or propane) to heat the banger unless you're using an e-nail for electronic heating. A dab tool applies your concentrate to the hot banger. A carb cap goes on top immediately after applying concentrate — it traps heat and improves vaporization efficiency. Many people add a timer to dial in consistent cooldown periods for repeatable results. Terp pearls can enhance heat distribution in your banger. Keep isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs around for cleaning your banger between dabs. A dab mat or station organizes everything and protects your surface.