Today, cannabis enthusiasts have several options for using their favorite strains. One method that’s seemingly exploded in popularity is dabbing. Dab rigs provide users who enjoy concentrates with a fast, convenient way to feel the effects of THC. If you’re in the market for a dabbing device, you may have come across a couple of options, an e nail rig and a rig using a conventional nail. The question is, what’s the difference, and which one is right for you?
Dabbing Concentrates
Dabbing is a method of consuming cannabis concentrates. You heat a component known as the nail and place a small amount of your favorite concentrate on it. The heat vaporizes the product, which you then inhale through a mouthpiece. The result is a potent, fast-acting high.
What, Exactly, Is a Nail?
A dab rig has a few components, including a base, mouthpiece, downstem, and nail. The nail is the part where you apply your concentrate. Before adding the concentrate, you have to heat it, a step essential for vaporizing the product.
E Nail Rig Versus Conventional
When it comes to dab rig nails, you have a couple of options: an e nail rig and one with a standard nail. A standard nail is one that you have to heat manually. Heating it requires the use of a torch.
Standard nails come in a variety of different materials, including:
- Glass
- Ceramic
- Quartz
- Titanium
Each material has benefits and drawbacks to consider. For instance, glass nails are the cheapest, but they’re also the most fragile. Exposing them to the temperatures required for dabbing can cause them to shatter. Titanium nails, on the other hand, are much more durable. They’re also resistant to corrosion and retain heat well. They are the most expensive, however.
E nails are electronic nails. They’re generally quartz or titanium nails with a built-in heating element. These nails heat on their own, so you don’t need a torch.
Pros and Cons
Using an e nail rig or a torch: each has its pros and cons.
E Nails
Pros of e nails include:
- You don’t need to handle an open flame
- You can set the temperature, so there’s no guesswork
- E-nails heat evenly, eliminating the potential for hot spots
- They require very little power and can last for several hours
Cons of e-nails include:
- They require much more attention (you should never leave an e nail plugged in and unattended)
- They can be a fire hazard
- Their use is limited to your access to electrical outlets
- They can be expensive
Torch
Pros of using a nail that requires a torch include:
- They’re perfect for dabbing purists
- You have several options when it comes to material
- Butane is affordable
- You don’t have to worry if the nail gets wet
Cons include:
- You do have to refill the torch periodically (and ensure that you have enough butane before you begin)
- You have to master the art of heating your nail for the perfect dabs
- They’re not as discreet (the torch is noisy, and there’s a bright flame)
- Fire can be hazardous if not handled properly
Which Is Right for You?
Both e nails and regular nails have their draws as well as their drawbacks. Many purists prefer the art of heating a regular nail to enjoy their favorite concentrate. Others enjoy the ease and convenience of an e nail rig. Are you having trouble choosing? A hands-on experience is one of the best ways to find which option works best for you.