Have you ever found yourself staring at a new vial of concentrate and wondering…now what? Potent, pure, and oh-so-exciting, cannabis concentrates are among the most in-demand products at dispensaries today. They come in a wide range of textures, flavors, and experiences, while being one very powerful product. And with that power comes responsibility.
With so much versatility and ways to consume concentrates, it can be a bit daunting to find your perfect method. That’s where we come in with our step-by-step guide to safe, confident concentrate use. As proud producers of our very own premium, small-batch concentrates right here in Montana, we’re ready to share our knowledge with you.
At a Glance: Cannabis concentrates are highly potent extracts that deliver more flavor and intensity than flower, but they require care and the right tools. Dabbing with a rig, e-rig, or dab straw is the classic method, but you can also use concentrate vapes, mix them into joints, or infuse them into edibles. The golden rule: start with a dab the size of half a grain of rice, go slow, and always store your concentrates in a cool, airtight container to preserve flavor and potency.
Cannabis Concentrates 101
Concentrates are inhalable cannabis products made by isolating the most desirable compounds—THC, CBD, and sometimes aromatic terpenes—from cannabis flower. The result? Intense flavor and exceptional potency. We’re not kidding: a dab the size of a grain of rice can equal a whole bowl of flower in terms of its punch. So, no matter your prior cannabis experience, it’s always best to start low and go slow.
Unlike traditional flower, which contains a broad mix of plant material, concentrates are designed to deliver a high-impact experience in a smaller, more refined form. These products come in a variety of consistencies and strengths, catering to everyone from seasoned dabbers to medical patients seeking targeted relief. Whether you’re drawn to the pure THC punch of a distillate or the terpene-rich complexity of live rosin, there’s a concentrate for nearly every kind of cannabis enthusiast.
Related: The World of Cannabis Concentrates
How to Smoke Dabs: Step-by-Step Guide
While there are many ways to enjoy cannabis concentrates, dabbing remains the “gold standard.” While it requires an investment in a purpose-made dab rig, the payoffs are substantial: stronger, more focused hits, less waste of precious product, and an enjoyable ritual for those who love the high-powered effects of dabbing.
Below, we’ll share three methods tailored to different experience levels: Advanced, Moderate, and Beginner. To use each of them, you’ll need the right tools, including:
- Dab rig, E-rig, or dab straw
- Nail or banger
- Torch
- Dabbing tool
How To Use a Dab Rig
If you’re ready to level up your cannabis experience, the dab rig is your gateway to deeper flavor, fuller vapor, and precision control.
Pros: Offers the best flavor and flexibility in the world of dabbing.
Cons: Initial cost and unfamiliarity with using a butane torch.
Steps
- Collect a tiny amount of concentrate with your dabbing tool—you’re aiming for a grain of rice or less.
- Use the torch to heat the banger or nail till it’s red-hot, then allow it to cool for anywhere from 15 to 90 seconds. Less cooling time means intense effects and large vapor clouds at the expense of flavor; longer cooling time tends to produce more desirable flavors.
- Apply the tiny amount of concentrate to the heated area.
- As you gently apply the concentrate to the heated element with the dabbing tool, place your mouth over the dab rig’s mouthpiece so that you feel suction.
- Inhale gently.
How To Use an E-Rig
For those who want the full concentrate experience without the torch, e-rigs offer high performance with low effort—perfect for precision and portability. All you have to do is select the ideal temperature.
Pros: Portable, precise temps, fewer accessories.
Cons: Higher initial cost.
Steps
- Apply the dab first, known as “cold-start dabbing.”
- Preheat the heating chamber until the unit signals that it has reached the correct temperature, indicated by a vibration or a flashing light.
- Place your mouth on the mouthpiece and gently inhale as with a regular dabbing rig.
How To Use a Dab Straw or Nectar Collector
New to concentrates? A dab straw—or nectar collector—is the easiest way to explore dabbing without the learning curve or steep price tag.
Pros: As the simplest entry-level dabbing tool, this easy-to-use device is a good compromise between simplicity, portability, and cost-effectiveness.
Cons: Less intense flavor, messier than a full-fledged dab rig.
Steps
- Heat the tip just like the nail on a dab rig.
- Drag it through a tiny dab spread out on a heatproof tray or similar vessel.
- As the hot tip of the nectar collector passes through the dab and vaporizes it, inhale gently through the mouthpiece.
Common Dabbing Mistakes to Avoid
Even the most seasoned dabbers can slip up, especially when rushing or experimenting with new gear. Here are a few common mistakes to steer clear of as you refine your ritual.
- Overloading: Remember, you only need a small amount of product to dab. More than a grain of rice and you’re wasting concentrate.
- Touching hot surfaces: Remember, you’re working with high heat here. Move carefully and with caution.
- Not cleaning between sessions: Dab rigs can quickly become clogged with resin and gunk. For optimal flavor and performance, clean your tools regularly with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol.
Dabbing is all about control, cleanliness, and intention. Keep your setup tidy, your doses light, and your movements mindful for the smoothest possible session.
Other Ways to Use Cannabis Concentrates
If you’re just learning how to smoke THC concentrates and you’re not yet ready for the investment in a dab rig, we’ve got your back. There are other ways to enjoy these phenomenally potent products; here’s an introduction to the most popular methods.
Cannabis Concentrate Vape Devices
Some specialized vapes are designed for the unique requirements of cannabis concentrates. If they include a temperature control, it can be a great way to enjoy smooth, consistent hits without needing additional gear. Vape devices include vape pens, cartridges, dab pens, or other portable vaporizers.
Pros: Discreet, easy, portable.
Cons: Replacing cartridges results in a recurring cost.
Steps
- Load or screw in the cartridge.
- Push the button (or inhale) to activate.
- Inhale.
Mix with Flower in Joints or Bowls
Depending on the consistency, some cannabis concentrates can be added directly to the flower in joints or bowls for an extra kick of flavor and potency. All you have to do is sprinkle it in, and you’re ready to light up.
Pros: Enhances potency and flavor.
Cons: Potential for an uneven burn.
While not as precise as using a dab rig, sprinkling, crumbling, or smearing your dabs into flower can enhance the overall experience without special tools.
Cooking and Infusions
Cannabis concentrates aren’t just for dabbing—they’re also a powerful way to elevate your homemade edibles. With the right prep, you can infuse concentrates into butter, oil, or even drinks. Just remember: concentrates must be gently heated (a process called decarboxylation) to activate their THC.
Dosing & Safety Best Practices
We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again: when you’re first learning how to consume cannabis concentrates, start low and go slow. You can always have more cannabis, but you can’t have less. Other practical tips include:
- Gauge your amount: Start with a dab the size of half a grain of rice.
- Dosing concentrates: Since everyone has a unique tolerance based on their metabolism and experience, it’s up to you to determine your ideal dose.
- Safety tips: Avoid mixing dabs with alcohol or other drugs, and consider your set and setting—the physical and emotional environment you’re in—to ensure you’re comfortable and in a supportive environment before you consume cannabis concentrates.
Cannabis concentrates can deliver powerful, nuanced experiences, but only when used with care. Respect the potency, stay present, and give your body time to respond.
Storage & Handling Tips
To preserve the potency, flavor, and integrity of your concentrate, treat it like you would premium cannabis flower: protect it from light, heat, and oxygen. Your best bet? Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
For everyday use, small glass jars work well. Silicone containers are fine short-term but may degrade flavor over time. If you’re storing concentrates for longer periods, vacuum-seal and refrigerate or freeze them to slow THC degradation. But don’t let them sit forever, as most concentrates are best used within a year for peak performance.
Confidently Explore Concentrates with Seed of Life
Cannabis concentrates are potent, versatile, and rewarding, especially when approached with care. If you already love the flavors and effects of cannabis but want to take your experience to the next level, cannabis concentrates may be right for you.
For expert advice and a curated selection of small-batch products, we’re Montana’s go-to source for high-quality cannabis concentrates. Whether you’re seeking next-level potency or exploring new flavor profiles, our hand-crafted concentrates offer a whole new type of experience. Just head to any of our Montana dispensary locations to get started on your concentrates journey.
FAQs: Using Cannabis Concentrates
How do you smoke dabs?
Dabs are typically consumed with a dab rig, e-rig, or a simple device known as a nectar collector. While the details differ slightly, all these tools and approaches involve dosing, heating, and inhaling smooth concentrate vapor.
How do you smoke dabs safely?
When learning how to use THC concentrates, it’s essential to follow proper dosing procedures when dabbing. First: Start low and go slow. Beyond this, cleaning your dab rig and tools, as well as avoiding overheating your device, will go a long way towards providing a safe, flavorful, and memorable dabbing experience.
What’s the right dose for cannabis concentrates?
When dosing concentrates, start with a tiny amount—we suggest a dab that’s half the size of a grain of rice. As you gain familiarity and confidence with dabbing, you can adjust the amount to suit your needs and goals.
Is dabbing healthier than smoking flower?
Dabbing concentrates avoids combustion—the burning of plant matter—which some people find irritates their airways. However, dabs are also significantly more potent, which invites the risk of overconsumption. For those learning how to use concentrates, start with very small amounts, and be sure to moderate your dabbing temperature for smoother vapor rather than potentially harsh smoke.
Can you put dabs in a joint?
Yes, you can sprinkle or smear cannabis concentrates into a joint for a potency boost. However, there’s a good chance this will create an uneven burn, as flower and concentrates combust at different rates.
Can you eat dabs?
Yes, but you’ll only feel the classic effect associated with cannabis if they’ve undergone the process known as decarboxylation, which involves a period of gentle heat to activate their THC.
