If you’re finally ready to get into the dabbing lifestyle, then you know that the first thing you need to do is make sure you have the proper hardware. Dabs, or concentrates, can only be inhaled using specialized types of devices known as dab rigs, which are ideal for the unique nature of concentrates compared to flower and oils.

Dab rigs are more complex than standard pipes used for smoking flower, and because of this, beginners to the dabbing scene may feel quite intimidated. Not only do they require a bit more knowledge to use properly, but they come in a wider array of options than traditional pipes and the like.

Now, the term“nail” can be a bit confusing, too, because technically, the nail refers to any type of structure onto which the concentrate is placed and heated, acting as the equivalent to the bowl of a pipe. But, when comparing a nail to a bucket, the term “nail” takes on a more precise meaning, which we will get into shortly.

By knowing how standard nails and buckets differ from each other, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what type of dabbing setup is right for you, and what each one can offer in terms of the quality of your dabbing experience.

Bucket

Buckets get their name from a bucket-like shape and have a curved stem that attaches to the joint of the actual dabbing device. They are relatively similar to bowls, in that the product goes into the bucket, and then the bucket is heated from below to bring the concentrate to the right temperature. Plus, they can come in different sizes.

Buckets come in various styles and materials. Quartz buckets are the most popular because quartz is heat-resistant while retaining heat well, and quartz is exceptionally durable and easy to clean, with no negative impact on flavor. Other materials include ceramic, titanium, and glass.

Furthermore, buckets come in various shapes, with the flat top being the most popular one, due to its ability to improve airflow.

Pros

#1: Holds More Product

Buckets allow you to put more concentrate into your dabbing device per session, because the bucket shape fits more than the surface of a traditional nail. Therefore, you will not need to spend as much time transferring your concentrates.

#2: More User-Friendly

Buckets tend to be considered more user-friendly, because you do not need to be as precise with your positioning of your concentrates or be as careful when handling the nail itself.

#3: Better Airflow

Buckets are largely celebrated for their ability to produce superior airflow, which can result in smoother, more flavorful hits and less dry hits and clogs.

#4: Less Harsh

Overall, buckets have a reputation for producing a less harsh inhale due to the way in which the heat is transferred throughout the product.

Cons

#1: Requires More Maintenance

Buckets have more surface area, and thus must be cleaned more thoroughly. Otherwise, the buildup of debris can negatively impact the flavor, or even clog the stem.

#2: More Fragile

Because buckets stick out of the device, and are larger, they can be more fragile, although this is only an issue if you are using a glass or ceramic bucket.

#3: Costs More

Buckets typically cost more than traditional nails.

#4: Can Cause You to Go Through Product at a Quicker Rate

Because you can fit more product in a bucket, you may end up going through product more quickly, as you will be tempted to fill the bucket and finish that amount with each dabbing session, as opposed to taking one or two hits at a time.

Nail

The nails we are referring to are small surfaces onto which the concentrate is applied, which are directly heated with a torch. Some are domed and some are not, and nails can be made of various materials, with quartz again being the most popular, and titanium, glass and ceramic options also being available. Plus, they come in different sizes.

Pros

#1: Less Expensive

Nails tend to be a more affordable choice, as they are simpler pieces of hardware that do not cost as much to create.

#2: Less Fragile

Nails are smaller and do not stick out as much, and so there is no need to be as concerned with their fragility. Again, this only applies to fragile materials like glass and ceramic.

#3: Can Maximize Your Concentrates

With traditional nails, you can get more out of your concentrates because you won’t be tempted to over-apply product, and therefore may find that the product lasts longer overall.

#4: Easier to Maintain

Nails are smaller, and therefore they are easier to clean. There is less surface area for buildup of residue.

Cons

#1: Holds Less Product

Of course, some people may see the limited space of a traditional nail as a drawback if they enjoy longer dabbing sessions. This requires that they continuously apply more concentrate to the nail.

#2: Can Be Harsher

Nails can produce harsher inhales due to the more direct contact with the heat source, and therefore may make your throat feel irritated temporarily.

#3: Less User-Friendly

Nails are a bit less user-friendly than buckets because you need to exercise more precision with each application, and you need to be more careful when heating them.

#4: Less Airflow

Traditional nails tend to reduce airflow, which can make the hits less smooth and flavorful than what you would experience with a bucket.

Choosing the Best Option for Your Dabs: The Bottom Line

So, which is better: a traditional nail or a bucket? Well, currently, buckets are more popular than nails, for the various reasons described above. But, ultimately, it is up to you. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to dabbing, which is why you should consider the pros and cons of each method and figure out what suits your dabbing goals.