There are a lot of options to choose from in the dab nail universe. Some are great for certain temperatures while others have more impressive lifespans. And then there's the quartz dab nail (also known as a dab banger), which is the best of both worlds. Keep reading to learn more about the quartz nail, what makes this particular dab nail so great and how to properly season a quartz banger for your first smoking session.
The Perfect Nail for Low-Temp Dabbing (and High-Temp Dabbing)
While quartz nails are perfect for low-temperature dabbing, they're also great for high-temperature dabbing as well — like we said, they're the best of both worlds. Quartz nails heat up faster than ceramic or titanium nails, meaning you can hit your ideal dabbing temperature in less time. Quartz nails also last longer than glass because they can absorb heat better. In general, they're also sturdier than glass dab nails, making them less prone to fractures.
Convinced that the quartz nail is a real gem? Once you learn how how to properly season a quartz banger, you will be.
How To Properly Season A Quartz Banger
Seasoning a quartz nail is similar to seasoning a new cast-iron skillet: the porous surface absorbs all those delicious oils so that every new dish tastes better than the last. But more importantly than taste, seasoning a quartz banger eliminates any dirt or residue from the manufacturing process. Seasoning is basically sanitizing your nail so that it's completely safe for use.
The seasoning process is fairly simple for quartz nails. Let’s break it down:
- First, place your quartz nail securely into your water pipe or dab rig's joint.
- Then, heat the nail until it starts to glow red — it won't be super vibrant, as the brightness comes from oxidized oils burning off from previous uses.
- Once the top of the quartz nail is thoroughly heated, take the torch away and let it cool. Don't heat the entire length of the nail or you'll risk damaging the joint.
- Adding a concentrate or oil is only necessary for titanium nails, but feel free to use them with quartz nails as well.
- Lastly, allow the concentrate or oil to burn away. Don't smoke it since it could have nasty chemicals in it.
Once the seasoning process is finished, you can practice cleaning your quartz dab nail. Just use a cotton swab to wipe away any excess oils or concentrates while the nail is still warm. Quartz is porous, so your oils can seep into it, harden and oxidize once the nail cools. Doing this after each dabbing session — or even after each hit — will help extend your quartz nail's lifespan.
Find The Perfect Dab Nail For Your Rig
Want to learn more about how to use a quartz nail? Check out How To Use a Dab Rig in 9 Steps to brush up on some dab rig basics and understand the right way to use your new quartz nail.
How To Clean A Quartz Banger
Once the seasoning process is finished, you can then practice cleaning your quartz dab nail. Just use a cotton swab to wipe away any excess oils or concentrates while the nail is still warm. Quartz is porous, so your oils can seep into it, harden and oxidize once the nail cools. Cleaning your quartz nail after each dabbing session — or even after each hit — will help extend your quartz nail's lifespan.
Find the Perfect Quartz Nail for Your Dab Rig Today
Thick Ass Glass has plenty of quartz nails and more in our full catalog of water pipes and dab rig accessories. You can also find titanium nails or, for torchless heating, you could try a dab enail. Dive in and find just what you need for another great smoking session. Reach out today for more information or for help finding the right product for your smoking needs.