Dab Rigs 101: A Complete Beginner's Guide

If you're stepping into concentrates for the first time, a dab rig is where it starts. This guide covers exactly what a dab rig is, the parts that make it work, and how to choose your first setup without overthinking it.

What Is a Dab Rig?

A dab rig is a water pipe built specifically for concentrates rather than dry herb. Instead of a bowl, it uses a heated surface — a banger or nail — where a small amount of concentrate is vaporized and drawn through water for a smooth, flavorful pull.

The Parts of a Dab Setup

  • The rig — the glass piece itself, usually compact so vapor travels a short distance and keeps its flavor.
  • The banger — a quartz bucket that holds and heats your concentrate. See our quartz bangers.
  • A carb cap — sits on the banger to control airflow and hold heat for low-temp dabs.
  • A heat source — a torch for traditional rigs, or a built-in coil on an electric rig.
  • A dab tool — for loading your concentrate cleanly.

Types of Dab Rigs

  • Mini glass rigs — compact and flavor-first, the classic starting point.
  • Recycler rigs — continuously filter water for cooler, smoother hits.
  • Electric e-rigs — push-button temperature control, no torch required (think Puffco Peak Pro).

Browse the full lineup on our dab rigs collection.

Low-Temp Is the Move

Lower temperatures preserve flavor and give a smoother experience than running your banger red-hot. A carb cap helps you keep that heat where you want it. If you want a deeper walkthrough on picking a rig, read our dab rig buying guide.

Caring for Your Rig

Swab your banger after each use while it's still warm, and change your rig water often. A clean setup tastes better and lasts longer.

For adults 21+. Ziggy's Miami products are intended for use with legal materials only.