How to Use a Bong as a Dab Rig

How to Use a Bong as a Dab Rig

There are many reasons you may want to use your bong as a dab rig so in this guide we are going to show you the best way to do that so you still get the most from your concentrates.

If you’re just starting out dabbing, you may not know what to look for in a dab rig. Furthermore, you may not want to go and spend your money on a dab rig if you’re not sure you will like it. But...News Flash: YOU WILL! However, for these common reasons, we are going to give you a quick guide on how to use your bong as a dab rig. Now, if you are just learning about dabbing and don’t want to buy another pipe, we have a few suggestions. Some bongs will be more adaptable to becoming a dab rig. And, there are a few essential accessories you will need to convert it.

Choosing the Right Bong to Make into a Dab Rig

  1. Size DOES Matter
    But really, it does. Bong aficionados will say “the bigger the better!” However, larger bongs are not good for dabbing. We don’t recommend using anything over 15”. To get the best flavor from your concentrates a smaller bong is better.
  2. Themed/Novelty Bongs
    While these are fun for chilling with friends in your bud cave, they will not do so well as a dab rig. The joint angle size probably won’t be right and the wacky designs will probably get in the way. The same is true for animal pipes. The shapes get in the way of the banger and dab nail.
  3. Bong Shape
    A beaker bong with a straight tube is probably your best bet. The simple structure and the removable downstem make it easy to adapt into a dab rig. If you happen to have a recycler bong that is going to work perfectly.
  4. Percolators
    Percs in bongs are OK, but you want them to be small and simple. Bongs with multiple percolators or complex systems are good for cooling the smoke and providing extra filtration. However, too many percs will filter out the sweet taste of concentrates and decrease potency.

What You Need to use a Bong as a Dab Rig

Quartz Banger Nail

A quartz banger is used in place of the bowl piece of a bong. Another option would be a titanium banger. Since your bong is likely to be glass, a quartz banger will look better than its metal counterpart. The choice is up to your preference, though!

Adapter (sometimes)

Depending on the size of your downstem and your banger, you may need an adapter. You can figure out what size banger you need for your bong prior to buying it. But, if you have these on hand already, you may just need the right adapter to connect the pieces.

Dabber Tool

Toker Supply has a ton of options for choosing a dabber. The dabber is used to take a small amount of the concentrate and place it on the heated banger. These come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. But, the choice purely up to preference! Some dabber tools have extra features. Some have a scooper at one end for extracting the concentrate. Others (like the one pictured here) have a carb cap on the end, which helps you get the most out of your concentrates.

Carb Cap

Of course, you can dab without a carb cap. However, you don’t want to dab without a carb cap. Carb caps are these small magical items that ensure efficient dabbing. There’s a ton of styles and options to choose from. Novelty or themed carb caps are our personal favorites. Carb caps like the Rubber Ducky are a good juxtaposition to the simplicity of most dab rigs.

Torch

The last thing you will need is a torch, which is a must! Gas station lighters will not work, so don’t even try. Proper heating your dabber needs to come from a powerful heat source. Otherwise, the dabber will not be hot enough to take a proper dab. You will only waste your concentrates!


Should You Use a Bong as a Dab Rig?

Turning a bong into a dab rig is fine for a short term solution. It’s always best to buy a separate dab rig, so you keep your dry herbs and oils separate.

The main reason is for cleanliness purposes. The reclaim from dabs is easy to clean. However, the reclaim from dry herbs like resin and charred particles are hard to clean and will change the flavor of concentrates. Some people are diligent enough to thoroughly clean their pipe after every use. But let’s be real...ain’t nobody got time for that. Therefore, having a dedicated dab rig is the way to go!

Using A Bong As A Dab Rig FAQS

Can I use any bong as a dab rig?

The short answer is yes, the longer answer is found above. While technically yes you can use any bong to dab there are things to consider before doing it so that you get the most of of your precious concentrates.

Can you use the same bong for dabs and flower?

Yes you can although we do not recommend it. Using the same bong for both flower and dabs can make it very hard to clean and also not taste so great since you are mixing the two. If you are going to be a regular connoisseur of both dabs and flower we HIGHly recommend getting a bong for flower and a dab rig for dabs.

Can you use a silicone bong as a dab rig?

You sure can! Just like any normal glass bong can be used as a dab rig so can a silicone bong. The only thing to keep in mind is that you make sure you do not get the torch too close to the silicone while you are heating your nail.

Previous article Dab Rig vs Bong – What's the difference?
Next article How to Hide the Smell of Smoke