The world of weed has evolved significantly since the days of pot brownies and doobies. Now, there are endless ways to consume the plant. One method of consumption that has exploded in popularity is dabbing—aka, vaporizing cannabis concentrates. The process may seem a tad intimidating, especially since the traditional dab involves a blow torch. Thankfully, there is a way to make dabbing safer and more efficient: the e nail.
RELATED: Science can prove what strain you’re smoking – here’s how
Short for electronic nail, e nails (sometimes written as e-nail) are devices designed to warm up a dab rig. A banger (the rig’s “bowl”) can be precisely heated with the nail, no blow torch required. There are also all-in-one devices called e-rigs that streamline dabbing even more. If you’ve been curious about concentrates but are terrified of the torch, these futuristic dabbing devices could be the answer.
Dabbing 101
Dabbing is the term used for consuming weed extracts. These extracts come in a wide variety of consistencies, from wax to badder to sugar, and can be made in various ways.
The active ingredients in cannabis (aka the stuff that gets you high) is separated from the plant during the extraction process. The resulting extract is far more potent than regular flower, since the cannabinoids and terpenes are concentrated. For context, weed usually has anywhere from 20 to 35 percent THC. Dabs may have anywhere from 70 to 90 percent THC.
RELATED: Where’s the cheapest weed in America? The answer may surprise you
Cannabis concentrates can be consumed with weed, either inside a joint or on top of a bowl. But if you want to forgo the flower, you’ll need a rig. Most rigs are made of glass, with a titanium, ceramic, or quartz banger. A small amount of extract is placed in the banger with a dab tool, and a carb cap is placed on top to create airflow.
The banger needs to be evenly heated to a high temperature to ensure the extract melts evenly. This is why most people use a blow torch. However, torches can be dangerous and unpredictable, which is why many dabbers opt for e-nails.
How does an e nail work?
As mentioned, an e nail is an electronic heating element designed for dab rigs. They come in many different styles, allowing users to dial in their desired temperatures and dab with ease.
Many e nails have a coil at the end of a cord, which can be placed under or around a banger. Others, like the Gpen Hyer, have the bowl built-in. These electronic units can be swapped in for a glass banger, offering even more convenience. Portable enails are a thing, but most people use a stationary desktop set-up.
At the other end of the cord is the control box. It typically has a power switch and a way to adjust the temperature. Some have a digital temperature display, while others have pre-set temps. Most people set their dabbing temperatures from 400 to 650 degrees Fahrenheit. Lower temps are better for extracts like rosin, while higher temps are great for shatter or sauce. Hotter dabs can be uncomfortable, leading to coughing fits, so tread lightly.
What about e-rigs?
For a sleek, all-in-one dab solution, e-rigs are the answer. These devices are extremely convenient, easy to use, and often portable. Innovations like the Puffco Peak set the standard for e-rigs, with several other options now on the market.
RELATED: Five things to consider before buying an e-rig
The downside to e-rigs is they often lack the power of a traditional dab or e-nail. People who prefer a hot dab on quartz or titanium may be disappointed by the standard ceramic e-rigs. While they can get quite warm, they do not always compare to the real thing. However, the streamlined systems are a great way to enjoy cannabis concentrates in a relatively small package.
E nails are a dabbing must
Dabbing cannabis concentrates is a big thing, but it may still seem intimidating for many consumers. Fortunately, electric e nails and e-rigs make it easier than ever to enjoy extracts one rip at a time, offering precise temperature control without the need for a torch. Just remember that dabs are a lot more potent than flower, so always start low and go slow for the best dabbing experience.
