What Equipment Do I Need for Concentrates?
A complete guide to dabbing equipment for beginners. Learn about rigs, bangers, torches, and simpler alternatives.
•4 min read•253 words
Dabbing requires specific equipment. Here's a complete guide from simple to advanced setups.
Option 1: Portable Vape Pens (Easiest)
What you need:
- Concentrate vape pen (like Puffco Plus, Yocan, etc.)
- Or pre-filled concentrate cartridges
Pros:
- Simplest method
- No torch needed
- Portable
- Controlled dosing
Cons:
- Less flavor than a rig
- Battery-dependent
Option 2: Basic Dab Rig Setup
Essential components:
- Dab rig ($30-200+) - Water pipe designed for concentrates
- Banger or nail ($15-100+) - Quartz banger recommended for beginners
- Torch ($20-50) - Butane torch (kitchen torch works)
- Dab tool ($5-20) - Metal or glass tool to handle concentrate
- Carb cap ($10-30) - Covers banger to trap heat
- Timer (phone works) - For consistent heating
Option 3: Electronic Setups (No Torch)
E-nails ($100-300):
- Attaches to rig
- Precise temperature control
- No torch needed
E-rigs ($150-400+):
- All-in-one devices (Puffco Peak, Carta, etc.)
- Battery powered
- Consistent temperatures
- Easier for beginners
Nice to Have
- Q-tips (for cleaning banger after each use)
- Isopropyl alcohol (for deep cleaning)
- Silicone container (for storing concentrates)
- Silicone mat (for protecting surfaces)
Recommended Starter Kit
| Item | Budget Option | Quality Option |
|---|---|---|
| Rig | Small silicone rig ~$30 | Glass rig ~$80 |
| Banger | Import quartz ~$15 | Thick quartz ~$40 |
| Torch | Kitchen torch ~$20 | Blazer ~$45 |
| Tools | Basic set ~$10 | Full set ~$25 |
| Total | ~$75 | ~$190 |
Or skip all that: E-rig (Puffco Peak) ~$250 - all you need
Key Takeaways
- Vape pens are the simplest entry point
- Basic rig setup costs ~$75-200
- E-rigs eliminate torch learning curve
- Quartz bangers are recommended for beginners
- Always have dab tools and Q-tips on hand
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