You might have noticed small beads, known as terp pearls, in dab rigs before but weren't quite sure of their purpose. If that sounds like you, you're in luck. This article will explain what terp pearls are, their benefits, how to use them, and how to clean them. These intriguing little spheres can significantly enhance your dab rig experience, adding both functionality and visual appeal.
What Are Terp Pearls?
Terp pearls are an innovative tool designed to enhance your dabbing experience by ensuring even heating of your concentrates. These small spheres, crafted from materials such as borosilicate glass, quartz, or other substances, are placed in a quartz banger to facilitate the dabbing process. Often referred to as “banger beads” or “dab beads,” terp pearls rotate at the bottom of the banger during dabbing, promoting even heat distribution and consistent vaporization, which in turn maximizes flavor.
Types of Terp Pearls
The market offers a wide array of terp pearls, and if you enjoy dabbing concentrates and waxes, you might wonder which type is right for you. We've got you covered with this guide to help you select the best option.
Terp pearls come in different sizes, typically ranging from 3mm to 8mm, but the 6mm size is the most popular. This size provides optimal heat distribution without occupying too much space in your rig. The 4mm pearls also have a strong following as the second most popular choice. These smaller pearls are ideal for fitting into tighter spaces such as electric dab rigs and dab pens, while still enhancing flavor and vaporization. Whether you prefer the larger 6mm pearls or the more compact 4mm ones, there’s a size to meet every dabber’s needs and preferences.
Additionally, terp pearls are available in a variety of vibrant colors, allowing you to personalize your dabbing setup. You can even coordinate them with a matching carb cap for a stylish, cohesive look.
Borosilicate Pearls: These are the most affordable option but are susceptible to melting or deforming at high temperatures. It’s essential to handle them with care, especially during cleaning, to avoid direct exposure to extreme heat.
Ceramic Pearls: Known for their ability to withstand considerable heat similar to quartz pearls, ceramic pearls are, however, more challenging to clean and are the most fragile of all the options. There is some debate regarding whether ceramic provides better flavor than quartz.
Quartz Pearls: Quartz pearls are the most popular choice due to their excellent heat resistance, ease of cleaning, and good flavor retention. They are also reasonably priced, making them a highly desirable option.
Sapphire or Ruby Pearls: These pearls excel at heat retention but can melt if exposed to direct flames and should not be submerged in cleaning solutions while still hot. With proper care and regular maintenance, these pearls can last a lifetime, even with daily use.
Ultimately, the best terp pearl for you depends on your personal preferences and needs. We recommend experimenting with different types to determine which one you prefer. Remember, proper care and maintenance will extend the lifespan of your terp pearls!
How to Use Terp Pearls
Terp pearls can be utilized with a variety of bangers, electric dab rig atomizers, and medium to deep dish nails, offering a versatile dabbing experience. Shallow dish nails, however, are not recommended as they may not effectively accommodate terp pearls. Certain bangers, such as blender bangers or auto-spinner bangers, are particularly well-suited for terp pearls, providing optimal performance. Additionally, pairing these bangers with different styles of carb caps can enhance the swirling motion and vaporization of the pearls, allowing dabbers to customize their dabbing setup.
Regarding how to use a banger with beads, it is most common to heat the banger with the pearls already inside. You can either place the pearls in the banger before heating or heat the banger first and then add the pearls. Once the banger is heated, add your dab, cover it with a carb cap, and inhale. This ensures that the terp pearls spin and function properly. You can use one or multiple terp pearls based on your preference. If the terp pearls cannot withstand high temperatures, you should heat the banger first and then add the pearls. Remember, without a carb cap, the pearls will not spin, though they will still get hot. The spinning motion indicates that the setup is working correctly. Ensure your carb cap is compatible to achieve the desired spinning effect.
Safety Tips
Always prioritize safety when using a banger. Use a heat-resistant glove to avoid burns and ensure your setup is away from flammable materials. If anything flammable is nearby, extinguish your banger and any smoking materials before proceeding.
Utilizing Carb Caps with Terp Pearls
Not every carb cap will effectively spin terp pearls and even some that can may not do so efficiently. It's essential to find a carb cap with excellent airflow to circulate air around the banger. This movement allows the terp pearls to spin and deliver the optimal hit. Quartz Cyclone Carb Cap or any directional airflow carb cap is an excellent choice. It offers fantastic airflow, enabling deep inhales while rapidly spinning the terp pearls. This affordable product promises to provide the best dabbing experience with terp pearls available on the market today.
Advantages of Using Terp Pearls
Terp pearls, when placed in a titanium or quartz banger, ensure even distribution of your dab, allowing for optimal use and uniform heating. They enhance the flavor of your hits and produce larger clouds, while also preventing sticky residue from forming in the banger. Additionally, terp pearls are reusable, aiding in the conservation of your dabs. They offer an excellent method for repurposing old titanium and quartz bangers.
To get the most out of your dabs, consider adding a layer of terp pearls. The advantages of using terp pearls are numerous. They come in various colors and shapes, adding an intriguing visual element to your smoking experience. Using them can be both enjoyable and visually captivating.
How Many Terp Pearls Should You Use?
The number of terp pearls you use largely depends on your personal preference. Typically, people opt for placing 1-3 pearls inside, with most favoring a single layer rather than stacking them, though experimenting with more can be an interesting endeavor. For optimal spinning, two pearls are commonly recommended.
Why Aren't My Terp Pearls Spinning?
If your terp pearls aren't spinning, the issue may lie with your carb cap. There are various types of carb caps, but for terp pearls, a directional airflow carb cap is essential. Vortex carb caps are particularly popular for achieving the desired spinning effect. If your carb cap doesn't provide the correct airflow configuration, the pearls may not spin. Additionally, using too many pearls can clog the banger, preventing them from moving freely. Stick to using two pearls for the best results.
If you've addressed these factors and the pearls still won't spin, it might be time to thoroughly clean your banger and pearls. A deep cleaning can reduce friction, allowing the pearls to spin more smoothly.
How to Clean Terp Pearls
Maintaining clean terp pearls is crucial for preserving the flavor of the terpenes and ensuring consistently flavorful hits. It's important to clean your terp pearls after each dabbing session to prevent concentrate residue from accumulating. To clean them, wait until they have cooled down, then immerse them in isopropyl alcohol and agitate until all residue is removed. Afterwards, wipe them clean. Allow the terp pearls to dry and cool off completely before reusing them. Regular cleaning after every dabbing session is recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Conclusion
Now that you understand what terp pearls are, how to use them, and the different varieties available, what are you waiting for? Enhance your dabbing experience by getting some terp pearls. They not only improve the quality of your hits but also add a cool visual element that will impress your friends. Don’t hesitate—upgrade your setup with terp pearls and elevate your dabbing to the next level.
