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Although cannabis is consumed in a variety of ways, for some, dabbing may still be a bit mysterious. Dabbing involves heating cannabis extracts until they are vaporized and then inhaling the vapour.

Dabbing can provide a much more intense high than an edible or simply smoking your favourite strain. Because of this, dabbing tends to appeal to seasoned cannabis users, which can leave those new to cannabis feeling a bit in the dark about what it is.

If you are thinking about trying dabbing for the first time, it’s important to understand what it is and its potential risks. In this article we’ll cover what you need to know about dabbing including the different types of dabs, what tools you need, as well as the benefits and side effects of dabbing.

What Are Dabs?

Dabs are cannabis extracts that contain highly-concentrated levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Butane oil is used as a solvent during the extraction process to isolate the THC from other plant matter.

Dabs have a THC concentration ranging from 60% to 80%, which is at least four times higher than traditional cannabis products. The high that comes from dabbing is exceptionally intense and can be felt all at once.

If you are an experienced cannabis user, you may have built up a higher tolerance level than someone who has never tried cannabis before. Dabbing is a good option for seasoned cannabis users looking for a potent high, while it should be approached with caution by those who have never used THC-based products before.

Types of Dabs

Dabs come in a variety of forms. Each one has its own consistency, appearance, and potency. Here is a list of some of the most common dabs on the market:

Shatter

Shatter is a cannabis concentrate that ranges in colour from a translucent amber to a dark yellow. One of the most common cannabis extracts, shatter can be found in various forms, from a brittle-like glass consistency to a taffy-like snap and pull quality.

Although shatter is typically known for its high THC concentration, cannabidiol (CBD) shatter is high in CBD and low in THC. If you’re interested in trying shatter, we suggest our hybrid Msiku White Wedding Shatter.

Budder

Budder, also known as butter, is a THC cannabis concentrate with a gooey-like texture, much like cake batter. Its colouration is typically amber and sometimes yellow.

Its wax consistency makes it easy to use in a dab rig or THC oil pen. It can also be used on dried weed in a joint or a bowl. Budder has a high THC concentration that can reach up to 80%. Try out our Nuken Cured Budder with an easy-to-scoop consistency perfect for dabbing.

Live Resin

Live resin is a cannabis concentrate produced by freezing cannabis leaves at harvest and keeping them frozen throughout the extraction process. This differs from other extracts made from dried plant material. The freezing process preserves compounds like terpenes which help retain the full flavour of the cannabis plant.

Resin has a saucy consistency which makes it easy to handle. If you want to give live resin a try, check out our Apricot Kush Gems N’ Juice by Qwest, extracted in the heart of the Kootenays with top shelf kush.

Crumble

Crumble is a cannabis extract produced by using a solvent such as butane, propane or carbon dioxide. It is processed at a lower temperature for an extended period, resulting in its crumble-like texture that falls apart when handled.

Crumble can have a THC concentration of up to 90%, which is perfect if you are looking for a potent high.

Wax

Wax is a potent cannabis concentrate with a THC concentration of 60% to 80%. It has a malleable texture that resembles beeswax. Its consistency can range from gooey and batter-like such as budder, to hard and flaky like crumble.

During the extraction process, the cannabis concentrate is agitated, causing the oil to crystalize. Wax is typically made using butane. Its consistency makes it easy to use in joints and bowls.

What You Need to Dab

If your interest in dabbing is piqued, there are a few tools you’ll need before you start dabbing. Those tools include:

Dab Rig

A dab rig is a water pipe that looks like a bong, but it has a fitting for a nail instead of a bowl. Most dab rigs come with the nail, so you won’t have to buy it separately. Rigs come in a variety of sizes. There are also electronic dab rigs on the market that heat up instantly and make your dabbing experience easier.

Carb Cap

A carb cap is an essential dabbing tool. It is placed on top of the nail and is used to regulate airflow. Carb caps are not necessarily needed, but if you want to enjoy all the flavours of your dab, we recommend using one.

Torch

If you do not have an E-rig or an E-nail, you will need a torch to heat your concentrate. You can use a creme-brulee torch or any other kitchen torch for this purpose.

Dab Tool/ Dabber

Dabs tend to have a sticky consistency, so you will need something to scoop them out of the container and add them to the nail.

Dabbers are made from various materials such as metal, glass, or ceramic, and they come in different shapes like a scoop, blade, paddle and shovel. The shape you pick will depend on the consistency of the dab. For example, a runny dab might need a scoop, but it’s best to use a paddle for thicker dabs.

The Benefits and Side Effects of Dabbing

Like any other method of consuming cannabis, dabbing has its benefits and side effects. The benefits of dabbing include:

Smokeless: Compared to smoking cannabis, dabbing is cleaner because you inhale vapour instead of smoke. Smoking cannabis can be harmful to the lungs because of the toxins you might inhale. Additionally, dabbing does not cause an odour that typically results from smoking cannabis.

Potency: Most people who want to experience an intense high will want to try dabbing. It’s perfect for people who have a higher tolerance for cannabis and want that extra kick. Because of the high concentration of dabs and the vapour produced, the effects of dabbing tend to be felt immediately.

Flavour: Dabs are extracted in a way that allows the plant’s authentic terpene flavour to shine. Heat influences terpenes. Because you can control the temperature of the dab rig, much of the rich terpene flavour is preserved when dabbing.

Efficient: A dab rig allows you to use dabs efficiently. The carb cap on the rig creates a seal around the nail that maintains a low temperature. As a result, the concentrates evaporate quickly, and the cannabinoids and terpenes vaporize entirely, resulting in the efficient use of the concentrate.

Despite its advantages, if overdone dabbing may have some adverse side effects, such as:

Rapid heartbeat.
Psychotic symptoms like paranoia.
In extreme cases, loss of consciousness.

Try Some Cannabis Dabs

Dabbing can be an incredibly enjoyable experience, but it’s essential to dab safely and responsibly. So, should you try dabbing? Well, that depends on your personal preferences and tolerance. If you are new to dabbing, do your research and take precautions to enjoy your dabs safely.

Get In Touch With Us!

At FIKA, we are dedicated to giving our clients an exclusive cannabis experience. We provide our clients with the best products on the market. If you have any questions on how we can help you enjoy your cannabis experience, please get in touch with us at hello@fikasupply.com or visit any of our shops.