Dabbing & Vaping 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis Concentrates

Thinking about trying a dab or hitting your first vape pen? You’re not alone. At Feel State Florissant, we meet a lot of people who are curious about cannabis concentrates but feel overwhelmed by all the terms.

What’s the difference between wax and shatter? What even is a dab?

If you’re new to this side of cannabis, don’t worry. This guide will break everything down in simple terms. You’ll learn what concentrates are, how dabbing and vaping work, and what to expect when you try them for the first time.

What Are Cannabis Concentrates?

Cannabis concentrates are potent extracts made by removing most of the plant material while preserving compounds like cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. These extracts deliver much higher potency than cannabis flower, meaning you only need a very small amount to feel the effects.

Many customers shop for concentrates at Feel State Florissant, the best dispensary in Missouri, when they’re looking for fast-acting effects, bolder aromas, or a different way to enjoy cannabis.

Dabbing vs. Vaping: What’s the Difference?

Both dabbing and vaping involve inhaling cannabis concentrates, but they use different tools.

What is Dabbing?

Dabbing uses a dab rig, which is a glass piece similar to a bong, along with a butane torch or electric device to heat a small amount of concentrate on a hot surface. You then inhale the vapor through the rig.

Some people prefer handheld, battery-operated dab tools. These portable devices expose small heating coils that you touch to the concentrate, then inhale through a straw-like mouthpiece. They’re easy to use and don’t require a full rig or torch.

Another popular option is the Puffco Pivot, a battery-powered, portable device that provides consistent heating.

What is Vaping?

Vaping uses a vape pen, cartridge, or all-in-one device. Vape pens typically pair a rechargeable battery with a prefilled cartridge, while all-in-one devices combine both into a recyclable unit that’s ready to use right out of the package. These battery-powered tools heat cannabis oil or rosin to create vapor that’s smooth and easy to inhale.

Vape options are portable, discreet, and beginner-friendly, making them a popular choice for those new to concentrates.

No matter which method you choose, start slow and keep your doses small. Concentrates are far stronger than cannabis flower.

Cannabis Concentrate Vocabulary

Here’s a quick glossary of the most common concentrate types you’ll find at the best dispensary in Florissant, MO:

• Wax – A catch-all term for concentrates. Typically dry, crumbly, and opaque.
  
• Shatter – Amber-colored, glass-like concentrate that breaks easily into brittle pieces.
  
• Live Resin – Made from flash-frozen cannabis to preserve terpenes. Sticky, saucy, and bursting with aroma and flavor.
  
• Rosin – Solventless concentrate made from trichomes with only heat and pressure. Typically solid or semi-solid. Can be liquified for vaping.
  
• Badder/Budder – Whipped to a creamy, smooth texture. Easy to scoop, especially when slightly warmed.
  
• Sauce – Thick, syrup-like concentrate with THC-A crystals suspended in terpene-rich liquid. Highly aromatic and potent.
  
• Sugar – A granular, crystal-like concentrate with a consistency similar to wet sugar. It is easy to handle and full of terpene-rich flavor.
  
• THC-A Diamonds – Crystalline structures of pure THC-A. Extremely potent once heated Can be liquified for vaping.
  
• Distillate – A highly refined, flavorless oil with high THC content. Found in vape cartridges, tinctures, and edibles.

Tools You’ll Need

Your setup depends on whether you’re dabbing or vaping.

For Dabbing

• Dab Rig – A water pipe designed for concentrates
  
• Torch – Heats the nail or banger (the part where you place the dab)
  
• E-Nail – Don’t want to mess with a torch? E-nails are a battery-powered alternative to a torch with temperature controls
  
• Dab Tool – A small metal tool to scoop your concentrate
  
• Carb Cap – Helps trap vapor and control airflow
  

For Vaping

• 510 Thread Battery – A pen that connects to prefilled cartridges
  
• Prefilled Cartridge – Typically filled with distillate, rosin, or live resin
  
• All-in-One Vape – A disposable device with oil and battery built in
  
• Pod System – Battery and pods made to work together
  

Not sure which tools are right for you? Ask one of our friendly budtenders at Feel State Florissant. We’re always happy to help.

Tips for First-Timers

If you’re trying dabbing or vaping for the first time, keep these tips in mind:

• Start Small – A dab the size of a grain of rice is enough.
  
• Low Temperatures Are Best – Lower heat means better flavor and smoother hits.
  
• Take It Slow – Concentrates can hit hard and fast, so give yourself time to feel the effects before taking another dab.
  
• Stay Hydrated – Drink water before and after your session.
  
• Set the Mood – Choose a calm, comfortable space.
  
• Ask Questions – At Feel State Florissant, we’re here to help you learn.
  

Explore Concentrates with Feel State Florissant

Concentrates don’t have to be intimidating. With the right information and a little guidance, dabbing and vaping can be easy and enjoyable.

From wax and rosin to live resin and vape cartridges, at Feel State Florissant, we offer a wide variety of high-quality concentrates. Our team is here to walk you through your options and help you find the perfect fit for your goals.

Ready to try concentrates?

• Check out our live menu: feelstate.com/menu/florissant
  
• Or stop by the best dispensary in Florissant, MO to chat with our team.

Disclaimer: The information presented here is meant for educational purposes only. Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising. Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of specific medical products.