Dab rigs are popular among cannabis solventless extract enthusiasts because they provide a smooth and flavorful way to consume rosin. Dab rigs function in much the same way as traditional bongs, but they’re specialized for taking dabs instead of smoking flower. Composed of a base, chamber, stem, and joint made of glass, dab rigs resemble normal bongs that have been prominent in cannabis culture for decades. 

A unique bowl, also referred to as nail or banger, is the most apparent component that sets dab rigs apart from regular bongs. Bangers are designed to hold heat which vaporizes dabs of cannabis concentrate, allowing the smoke to pass through the stem and chamber for inhalation.

Various accessories make dab rigs highly customizable, but nothing can enhance the experience quite like a carb cap. A carb cap is the first accessory to consider after you’ve completed your dab rig with a proper banger. 

What Are Carb Caps?

Carb caps are round, hollow coverings that fit on top of the banger, or bowl, of a dab rig. They take on different shapes but are normally bulbous or somewhat cylindrical with a little hat on top. As their name implies, these accessories cap off the open top of bangers while the user takes dabs. They sit loosely onto the top edge of the bowl with the ability to swivel around during use. 

The design typically includes a small hole or series of holes, which allows the user to control the amount of air that is allowed to flow through the banger. This helps to create a low-pressure environment within the banger, which can help to vaporize the concentrate more efficiently and produce a smoother, more flavorful hit. 

Carb caps are often handmade and can be very intricate and visually appealing. They are usually made from borosilicate glass, which is a type of glass that is resistant to thermal shock and can withstand high temperatures. Glass carb caps can also be customized with different colors, designs, and shapes. There are several different types of carb caps, which we’ll review in a bit. 

How Do Carb Caps Work?

Carb caps have a small hole or series of holes that allow air to flow into the banger, but at a slower rate than if the carb cap were not used. This slow flow of air creates a vortex or swirl effect that helps to distribute the concentrate evenly across the heated surface of the banger.

Airflow regulation in turn affects the temperature of the concentrate for dabbing. By controlling the airflow, the carb cap helps to ensure that the concentrate is vaporized evenly and thoroughly. Users can either open or block the air holes in a carb cap during use, which impacts airflow and pressure within the banger. This additional level of control increases carb caps’ functionality for dabbing. 

By controlling the airflow and temperature, carb caps can help to produce a smoother and more flavorful hit, with less waste and a more efficient use of the concentrate. 

The main benefits of using carb caps include:

• Increased flavor
• Conserves rosin
• Minimal waste
• Enhanced dabbing experience (especially when used together with terp pearls)

Different Types of Carb Caps

There are several types of carb caps available for dab rigs, each with its own unique design and functionality. Here are a few examples:

Thermal Core Carb Caps - These carb caps are designed with a thermal core, which helps to retain heat and maintain a consistent temperature within the banger. This can help to vaporize the concentrate more efficiently and produce a smoother hit.

Spinner Carb Caps - These carb caps have a flat, disc-like shape with a pointed end that allows them to spin around the banger. The spinning motion can help to distribute the concentrate and create a low-pressure environment within the banger, which can lead to more efficient vaporization.

Banger Hanger Carb Caps - These carb caps are designed to be used with bangers that have a hook or hanger attached to the side. The carb cap features a small hook that can be hung from the banger, allowing the user to easily control the airflow and vaporization of the concentrate.

How To Use Carb Cabs for Dabbing Rosin

To use a carb cap for dabbing rosin, you will need a dab rig with a banger, a dab tool, and a carb cap. Terp pearls are also great accessories to use with a carb cap. Learn more about these little gems in our article What Are Terp Pearls and How To Use Them.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Heat the banger: Use a torch to heat the banger until it is hot enough to vaporize the rosin. Wait for the banger to cool down to the desired temperature before proceeding to the next step.

2. Apply the rosin: Use a dab tool to scoop up a small amount of rosin and place it inside the heated banger.

3. Cover with the carb cap: Immediately after applying the rosin, place the carb cap over the banger, making sure it is snug and covers the entire opening.

4. Rotate the carb cap: Once the carb cap is in place, use your finger to rotate it slowly around the banger, creating a vortex that spreads the rosin around the heated surface. You can also cover the air holes in the banger to adjust airflow. 

5. Inhale and enjoy: While continuing to rotate the carb cap, inhale slowly through the mouthpiece of the dab rig. The carb cap will help to regulate the airflow and temperature, allowing you to enjoy a smooth and flavorful hit of rosin.

Different types of carb caps may require slightly different techniques. For example, directional carb caps will allow you to precisely aim the airflow within the banger, and even guide terp pearls as they spin around while dabbing. Make sure to use a carb cap that is compatible with the size and shape of your banger for best results.

Like all your dabbing equipment, carb caps need regular cleaning. Cleanliness is super important for long term maintenance of your glass, and it also prevents crusty and burnt oil from contaminating the pure taste of fresh dabs. Wipe carb caps down after every use, and give them a more thorough cleaning with isopropyl alcohol periodically. 

Conclusion

Carb caps aren’t absolutely necessary, but once you start using them, you’ll probably never want to dab without them again. Coupled with a high-quality nail and terp pearls, carb caps bring out the very best in rosin, allowing for smooth dabs with explosive flavor. There are a variety of carb caps to choose from, just make sure the carb cap and banger are compatible. Some carb caps are designed specifically for certain bangers, but at the bare minimum, just be sure the cap fits nicely over the opening of the bowl. 

If you want to increase flavor, prevent waste, and enhance your dabbing experience, keep a few carb caps close at hand. 

Also check out our article How To Dab Rosin.

What is your favorite type of carb cap? Let us know in the comments!

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are carb caps?
Carb caps are round, hollow, often globe-shaped coverings that fit on top of the banger, or bowl, of a dab rig.

How do carb caps work?
Carb caps have a small hole or series of holes that allow air to flow into the banger, but at a slower rate than if the carb cap were not used. This slow flow of air creates a vortex or swirl effect that helps to distribute the concentrate evenly across the heated surface of the banger.

What are carb caps made from?
Carb caps are often handmade and can be very intricate and visually appealing. They are usually made from borosilicate glass, which is a type of glass that is resistant to thermal shock and can withstand high temperatures.

What are the different types of carb caps? 
Some common types of carb caps include Bubble Carb Caps, Directional Carb Caps, Spinner Carb Caps, Thermal Core Carb Caps, and Banger Hanger Carb Caps.

What is the best type of carb cap?
The best type of carb cap is one that properly fits with the banger you are using.