If you're new to the world of smoking oils and concentrates, you might be a bit confused about what a portable rig (also known as an oil rig) is and how to find the right one for you. Just like with water pipes, there are several different factors to consider before you make your choice. Let's break down a few popular styles and their benefits.
Standard Dab Rigs
A standard dab rig usually has either a straight tube or a beaker base, similar to water pipes. However, a dab rig will generally have fewer chambers and percolators than a water pipe to help preserve the full flavors and effects of your concentrates. Dabbing is usually done at lower temperatures than smoking with a water pipe, which involves combustion, so the vapor doesn't need as much help cooling down before you inhale it. Be sure to look at the kind of percolator (either as a separate piece or a downstem) that a dab rig can take, and choose your rig based on your preferred level of filtration.
As for sizes, most dab rig users prefer rigs in the 5 - 8 inch range. Dab rigs are almost always smaller than water pipes — the largest size you will typically find is around 10 inches. For just starting out, and to ensure that you receive the fullest experience, choose a rig in the 5 - 8 inch range we mentioned. If you know would prefer a larger piece, however, you can aim for 6 - 10 inches. Either way, these sizes are comfortable for holding while smoking or for setting on a table, which is great for those still deciding which method feels best.
Faberge Egg Dab Rigs
If you're looking for a dab rig that has as much style as it has function, you should try out a faberge egg rig. This type of dab rig is an incycler, so it recycles water through an internal drain funnel rather than an external one. The recycling process, whether internal or external, helps preserve the flavor of oils and concentrates and cool the vapor, making recycler rigs perfect for dab-style smoking. Faberge egg rigs also come in a variety of awesome, swirling colors, so they're definitely pieces you'll be eager to show off.
Cheap Dab Rigs
Not sure if smoking with a dab rig is something you're ready to invest a lot of money in? No problem! There are plenty of inexpensive, high-quality options for you to choose from. For example, you could try the 10" Bellow Base Beaker dab rig — it has a simple design, a showerhead downstem for great percolation and a reasonable price tag in the $60 - $85 range.
Portable Dab Rigs
Taking the show on the road doesn't have to be a struggle thanks to micro and mini dab rigs! These portable rigs are typically 3 - 6 inches, designed to fit in the palm of your hand while still delivering the flavorful, concentrated smoking experience you're after. For these reasons, portable rigs are the prefered smoking method for many users.
It's important to use caution when using a portable rig, though. Since they are so small and handheld, it can be easy to accidentally burn yourself. Same goes for any dab rig or water pipe, so smoke responsibly!
Find The Perfect Dab Rig At Thick Ass Glass
We've only covered a few of the amazing oil rig styles available in our collection. Whether you're searching for something simple or ornate, small or large, you're sure to find a high-quality dab rig that suits your needs at Thick Ass Glass.