A Complete Guide to Joint Sizes and Types for Dabbing

Dabbing has many technical terms and tools. They can confuse beginners. One of the most important aspects of dabbing is the joint, which is where the dab rig and nail connect. Understanding joint sizes and types is crucial for a successful dabbing experience. This guide will teach you all about joint sizes and types for dabbing. So let's get started! 

Determining the Joint Type 

A joint refers to the connection between two pieces of equipment, such as a dab rig and a nail, or a nail and a banger. Dabbing equipment contains two main types of joints: male and female.

1. Male Joint:

The male joint fits inside a larger, female joint with its narrow end. This joint is common in dab rig designs. It suits users preferring domeless nails. With domeless nails, you place the concentrates on top. This lets you control the amount and the nail's temperature. Male joints come in sizes from 10mm to 18mm.

2. Female Joint:

The designers created a female joint with a wider opening to fit over a smaller male joint. Dab rigs with domed nails have a joint of this type. The concentrates go inside the dome and are then heated by the nail. Female joints come in different sizes, usually 14 mm to 18 mm.

Now that we have covered the different types of joints for dabbing, let’s move on to the size of your joint.

Determining the Size of Your Joint 

The next step is to determine the size of your joint using the penny test. This is a simple and easy method to determine the joint size without any tools. All you need is a penny and your dab rig. 

Place the penny next to the joint and see how it fits.

1. 10mm:

The 10 mm joint is the most compact option available. If the joint is smaller than a penny, it is a 10 mm joint.

2. 14mm:

The 14mm joint is a mid-size option. If the penny is the same size or a little bigger than the joint, it is a 14mm joint.

3. 18mm:

The 18 mm joint is the largest size. If the penny overshadows the joint, it's an 18mm joint. 

Determining the Angle of Your Joint 

Another important factor to consider is the angle of your joint. The angle refers to the angle at which the stem of the joint connects to the side of the rig. There are two standard angles for joint sizes: 45 degrees and 90 degrees. 

To determine the angle of your joint, simply look at the connection between the stem and the rig. If it is a sharp right angle, it is a 90-degree joint. If it is closer to a 135-degree angle, it is a 45-degree joint.

Bringing It All Together 

Now that you know how to find the joint type, size, and angle, let's see how it affects your dabbing.

The joint type is important because it determines what type of attachment will fit into it. If you have a male joint, you will need a female attachment and vice versa. Match the joint type of your dab rig with the attachment. This ensures a secure, airtight connection.

The joint size is also crucial because it determines the size of the attachment you can use. As mentioned, different joint sizes need different attachments. So, get the right size to avoid problems.

The joint's angle may seem minor. But, it can greatly affect your dab rig's performance. A 90-degree joint is the standard angle. It allows for a comfortable, easy dabbing experience. A 45-degree joint is better for those who want a more angled attachment. A 180-degree joint is for rigs with a vertical joint connection.