If you want to consume marijuana discreetly without all the fuss that comes with traditional smoking methods, a dab pen is exactly what you need. Yes, it is what it sounds like, a pen-like portable device designed for smoking concentrates, like marijuana wax, on the go.
In this guide, we’ll explore what you use a dab pen for, including all its intricacies, like how it differs from vape pens, how to use them properly, and some safety tips to consider.
What is a Dab Pen?
Also called wax pens, dab pens are small, portable devices that look like pens, designed for smoking semi-solid concentrated cannabis products, like wax or shatter. Unlike traditional smoking methods like dab rigs, which require lighters or torches and create quite a fuss, a dab pen is electric, which is why it’s so convenient.
The weed concentrates used for this device are colloquially called ‘dabs.’ It acts as the portable version of traditional dab rigs (where this device gets its name from) with a blow torch, nail, and glass pipe to smoke concentrates. Many dab pens are available today, with various styles, each containing a cannabis concentrate chamber, a chamber with a heating mechanism for the vapor production, and a mouthpiece to inhale.
What’s the Difference Between a Vape Pen and a Dab Pen?
Both dab pens and vape pens are different from traditional consumption methods, which allow smokers to partake whenever they want. However, they are different in terms of their usage and experience. Let’s take a look:
Dab Pens vs. Vape Pens: The Core Distinction
The primary difference between the two is in their functionality. Dab pens are for seasoned vapers who prefer a high-potency hit and want a portable version of the quintessential dab rig. A vape pen is mostly for single-time use, typically geared at those new to vaping. You can charge, smoke, and replace the vape cartridges to use again. Reusable vapes are also available, sometimes with adjustable temperature settings, but they seldom provide the high-potency hit a dab pen can.
What Each Device Is Designed to Vaporize
Dab pens vaporize wax and cannabis concentrates. However, a vape pen is strictly for vaporizing dry herbs or cannabis oil cartridges.
Differences in Heating Mechanisms
Dab pens generally use conduction heating. You insert the thicker concentrate dab into the pen’s chamber, and the ceramic coil (or any other heating mechanism) heats it, which atomizes the concentrate into the vapor for inhaling.
Meanwhile, a vape pen heats its cannabis oil cartridges via a ceramic atomizer (or a similar heating element). The battery heats the atomizer, and the cannabis oil or dry herb vaporizes, which you can then inhale. Dry herb vaporizers work differently; you place the flower directly inside the pen’s heating chamber.
Experience, Flavor, and Potency Comparison
Most dab pens offer versatile temperature control, which allows you to set the pen at a desired temperature and smoke the concentrate. This aspect improves the experience, as you can put just a small amount of concentrate and enjoy it longer, as it heats at lower temperatures. However, vape pens, especially single-use ones, don’t offer temperature settings.
Dab pens typically offer a longer battery life, especially if you purchase a premium one. Reusable vape pens have a smaller battery, so you’ll have to charge them more frequently.
Vape pens generally use vape juice or cannabis oil for flavor, and offer a consistent, smoother taste but without a lot of punch. This method is ideal for those wanting a subtle, smoother vaping experience. However, dab pens are better if you’re looking for flavor preservation and a more potent punch, as they usually offer more intense flavors for a robust high.
Potency is another key difference between these two pens. The concentrates used for dab pens involve an extraction process that separates cannabinoids from the flower, which offers a lot more THC than traditional marijuana. Higher THC levels mean dab pens provide high potency, while vape pens use oils and juices that are typically lower in THC.
What Do You Put Inside Dab Pens?
For a dab pen to function correctly, you must only put wax or cannabis concentrates, such as:
- Shatter (glass-like concentrate)
- Crumble (drier, granular concentrate)
- Budder (butter-like, creamy concentrate)
- Sugar wax (similar to wet sugar, amber/golden in color)
- Live resin (flash-frozen concentrate from fresh cannabis plants)
How Do You Use a Dab Pen?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using dab pens:
Place the Concentrate in the Chamber
First, fully charge your dab pen. Once done, place your chosen concentrate inside its heating chamber. Remove the mouthpiece to expose the atomizer (the heating chamber) and use a dab tool to put a small portion onto the coil inside.
Heat the Dab Pen
Next, switch on the pen and press its power button multiple times, usually three to five clicks, depending on the pen model. Once the power/activate light button glows or blinks, it’s good to go. If it has temperature settings, you can customize the heating.
Inhale
Now, slowly inhale through the mouthpiece while pressing and holding the power button. Once done, release the button and exhale. Since dab pens are powerful, remember to start with measured hits and see what the experience feels like.
Safety Tips When Using a Dab Pen
While dab pens are all about enjoying the high, safety is essential to avoid health risks. Here are some safety tips to consider:
- Keep It Clean: Always clean the pen after every session. Once it’s cooled down, disassemble the pen and use cotton swabs dipped in isopropyl alcohol to wipe away residual solvents inside the atomizer.
- Don’t Overheat or Overfill: Overfilling the atomizer is a common mistake and can lead to clogging, uneven heating, and even leaking. Meanwhile, overheating can burn your concentrate, which leads to wasted product and rough hits. Always load smaller amounts and be mindful of your pen’s temperature control.
- Let It Dry Completely: Your dab pen should dry thoroughly before you reassemble it; otherwise, this can cause electrical issues. After cleaning it, let it dry completely before using it.
Final Thoughts
For seasoned smokers or those looking to dab conveniently, dab pens are an excellent pick. They let you smoke concentrates discreetly and portably without worrying about carrying extra attachments or making a fuss.
Ready to dab on the go? Explore potent concentrates and premium pens at Inyo Fine Cannabis Dispensary, where we offer affordable and diverse options for every lifestyle.
FAQs
What’s the difference between a dab pen and a wax pen?
While they’re the same, wax pens are solely for smoking wax concentrates, while dab pens are for smoking other cannabis concentrates as well, like shatter and live resin.
What’s the difference between a dab pen and a vape pen?
Dab pens are for smoking ‘dabs’, i.e., weed concentrates, whereas vape pens are for vaping cannabis oils, juices, or dry flowers.
How much is a dab pen?
Dab pens can typically range from $20 to $100, depending on the brand and model.
How long do dab pens last?
A dab pen can typically last three months to a year based on usage and maintenance.
Do dab pens smell?
Yes, they do, but their odor isn’t as long-lasting or punchy as a smoked dry flower.
Is there anything special I need to know about maintaining my dab pen?
Maintaining dab pens is relatively straightforward. Stick to regular cleaning and avoid overheating or overfilling so your pen lasts as long as possible.
Should a beginner use a dab pen?
There’s no harm in beginners using dab pens. However, if you’re just starting, use beginner-friendly dab pens and concentrates with low THC percentages.
