A dabber is the small handheld tool used to pick up a dose of concentrate and place it into a hot banger or nail — the concentrate equivalent of a spoon or fork. The right tip makes dabbing cleaner, safer and less wasteful. Below we cover the main types, materials, and how to choose the right dabber for how you dab.
What is a dabber?
A dabber (or dab tool) is a slim rod, usually metal or glass, with a shaped tip for scooping, dropping or spreading concentrate. Because dabs are sticky and your banger is screaming hot, you never use your fingers — the dabber lets you portion a dose and apply it precisely. It's an essential part of any concentrate setup, right alongside your rig, banger and carb cap. New to concentrates? Start with what is a dab.
Types of dabbers (by tip)
- Scoop. A small cupped end that's perfect for thicker concentrates like badder, budder and crumble.
- Paddle / flat tip. A flat spatula end that spreads sticky concentrates and works well with most textures.
- Pick / pointed tip. A sharp point that's ideal for hard, brittle concentrates like shatter, breaking off just the piece you want.
- Spoon. A deeper cup for runny or oily concentrates that would drip off a flat tip.
- Carb-cap dabber. A two-in-one tool with a dabber on one end and a carb cap on the other, fewer tools to juggle.
Dabber materials
| Material | Pros | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel | Durable, affordable, easy to clean | Everyday all-rounder |
| Titanium | Extra tough, heat-resistant | Heavy daily use |
| Glass | Pure flavor, non-reactive, colorful | Flavor chasers, collectors |
Metal dabbers are the practical everyday choice; glass dabbers add flavor purity and style but need more careful handling.
Which dabber should you buy?
- Want one tool that does it all? A Metal Dabber with Silicone Tip handles most textures and won't scratch your banger.
- Dab thick badder or crumble? Grab a scoop or color dabber with scoop.
- Want a matching set or a gift? A Rainbow Dabber set gives you multiple tips in one affordable pack.
See every style in the dabbers & dab tools collection.
Buying tips: complete your dab setup
- Get a tip that matches your concentrate. Scoop for thick, point for shatter, spoon for runny.
- Add a carb cap. It controls airflow for bigger, more even hits, browse carb caps.
- Pair with the right banger. Match your joint first, see how to choose a quartz banger.
- Learn the technique. Read how to take a dab and try a cold start.
Frequently asked questions
What is a dabber?
A dabber is a handheld tool with a shaped tip used to pick up and apply concentrate to a hot banger or nail. It lets you portion a dose and place it precisely without touching the sticky, hot material.
What are the different types of dabbers?
The main tip styles are scoop (for thick concentrates), paddle or flat tip (for spreading), pick or point (for hard concentrates like shatter), and spoon (for runny oils). Some dabbers combine a tip with a carb cap.
What is the best material for a dabber?
Stainless steel and titanium are the most durable and practical for everyday use, while glass dabbers offer the purest flavor and a decorative look. Metal is the easiest all-rounder; glass needs more careful handling.
Which dabber tip should I use?
Match the tip to your concentrate: a scoop for thick badder or crumble, a flat paddle for sticky textures, a pointed pick for brittle shatter, and a spoon for runny oils. A silicone-tipped dabber is a gentle all-purpose option.
How do I clean a dabber?
Wipe the tip while it's still slightly warm, or soak it in isopropyl alcohol to dissolve residue, then wipe clean. Keeping the tip clean prevents buildup and keeps your dabs tasting pure.
Shop dabbers & dab tools
The right dabber makes every dab cleaner, safer and less wasteful. Shop Encore dabbers & dab tools now, then pair one with a quartz banger and carb cap to complete your kit.
