Dabbing is a unique form of smoking that is enjoyed by many. If there is one thing everyone can agree on, it’s that dabbing is the best way to enjoy smoking from a bit of wax or concentrate. But if there is something that folks are less like-minded about is what the best dab temperature is.
Some claim that the perfect dab temp is low, to prevent too much product from burning. Others swear up and down by high-temp dabbing, saying it offers the most potent experience. Today, Thick Ass Glass pros are going to highlight 7 facts about the best temp for dabs and dab rigs. Keep reading to see what we’ve discovered!
1. Why Low-Range Dab Temps?
Those who use their dab rigs at a low temperature prioritize flavor over potency. Cooler nails tend to preserve flavors better, burning them slower but over longer periods of time. Low-range dab temperatures fall between 400 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit, which is low compared to how some rigs are set up.
Some may argue that lower temperatures tend to waste more of the concentrate, leaving you with more excess oil that could have otherwise been used to smoke with.
2. Why Mid-Range Dab Temps?
As a standard mid-range method, most dabs operate around 500 - 545 degrees Fahrenheit. And many casual smokers (and seasoned dabbers alike) keep their temperatures around this range to quickly melt the wax, rosin, and other concentrates without requiring too much heat.
A good rule of thumb is that products that are less processed don’t require as much heat but might leave behind more residue.
3. Why High-Range Dab Temps?
Those looking for the hottest of the hot will likely be heating their dab rigs at temperatures of 570 - 600 degrees Fahrenheit or even higher. For the most part, only certain products need to be heated at temperatures this high. Some herbs must be decarboxylated to have a pleasant smoking experience, achieved at high temperatures.
Those who burn at high temperatures will swear up and down that up to 600 degrees is the perfect dab temp, but it depends on the product. If you need to convert chemicals, you might need to burn at higher temps. Otherwise, a slower or cooler burn might give you more satisfaction.
4. In Defense of Cold Start Dabs
Have you ever heard of cold starting? This is an effective method that some people like to use to get the most out of every single ounce of concentrate. Cold-start dabbing involves loading up the nail with the product before heating it, rather than adding it after the nail is hot. This preserves the chemicals and ingredients you want to savor so much while you smoke.
5. It’s All About the Terpenes
No matter what kind of product you use, natural plant ones create something cold terpenes. Terpenes are what give your product the smell, flavor, and efficacy that they have throughout your smoking experience. Depending on the type of terpene you are adding to the nail, it might vaporize at a specific temperature. That is why the best temp for dabs is so objective, as it is really a matter of what you are smoking in the first place.
6. Best Dab Temps for an E-nail
An e-nail is a bit different from a traditional dab rig as it does not need to be manually heated up. This also means that the heating method is different, so some of your products can burn differently. It is a good idea to read whatever documentation comes along with your e-nail. In general, temperatures for dab rigs can range between 400 and all the way up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit. If you want a more potent smoke, hike up the temp. If you’re all about the flavor, keep it cool.
7. It’s OK To Experiment!
Some of our customers will conclude that lower temperatures and higher terpenes make for the perfect dab rig setup. However, your particular type of concentrate might merit a different temperature in order to achieve the ideal amount of vapor. You can experiment with different temperatures until you have reached a setup that feels right for you. Your dab rig is your own, so our TAG pros say it’s always OK to experiment until you find the best dab temps.
Conclusion
Do you own a dab rig but you are missing the right accessory to complete your kit? Are you not sure what temperature you should start heating your nail at? The best advice we can give is to just go for it! At Thick Ass Glass, we offer a wide range of products and tools to help you find satisfaction along your smoking journey. If you have additional questions about dab rig temps, feel free to reach out to us at any time!