What is a Dab Rig Reclaim Catcher?
A dab rig reclaim catcher is a specialized accessory that acts as a filtration tool to gather the excess concentrates, known as reclaim, left behind after dabbing. When you take a hit from your dab rig, not all of the concentrate gets vaporized. Some of it condenses and collects inside the rig. Over time, this buildup not only clogs your rig but can also affect the quality of your dabs. The reclaim catcher captures this excess material, preventing it from sticking to the inside of your rig.
Moreover, reclaim is still full of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Although it doesn’t retain the same potency or flavor as fresh concentrate, it can still provide a decent high when reused. Reclaim is especially appealing for users who want to get the most out of their stash, making the reclaim catcher a valuable addition to any dab setup.
How Does a Reclaim Catcher Work?
The design of a reclaim catcher is fairly simple but highly effective. It typically consists of a small chamber placed between the dab rig’s nail and downstem. When you heat the nail and take a hit, the vapor passes through the reclaim catcher before reaching the rig. The unvaporized concentrate, instead of being trapped inside the rig, falls into the catcher’s detachable jar or chamber, ready to be collected and reused.
The functionality of the reclaim catcher lies in its ability to simplify the cleaning process and make reclaim collection easier. Instead of having to clean your entire rig after every session, you can simply remove the jar from the catcher, empty it, and clean just that small part. This extends the time between deep cleanings, preserving the performance and taste of your rig while still collecting valuable reclaim for future use.
Benefits of Using a Reclaim Catcher
- Cleaner Rig: Keeping your rig clean is vital for enjoying pure-tasting dabs. Sticky concentrates can easily cause buildup inside the rig, which can be difficult to clean without harsh chemicals or tools. By using a reclaim catcher, you can significantly reduce this buildup. This keeps your rig cleaner for longer and ensures a smoother, more enjoyable dabbing experience.
- Reusing Reclaim: While reclaim may not have the same quality as fresh concentrate, it can still be effective when reused. For those looking to make their stash last longer, reclaim offers an economical option. Many users find that reclaim is still potent enough for dabbing or can be infused into edibles for a stronger high. By making the most of this leftover material, you can save money on concentrates over time.
- Cost-Efficiency: Concentrates can be costly, and wasting even a small amount can add up. A reclaim catcher ensures that none of your concentrate goes to waste. Instead of watching excess material accumulate inside your rig, the catcher helps you collect it for future use. This can lead to substantial savings, especially for frequent dabbers who want to stretch their concentrate supply.
- Easy Maintenance: A dab rig can be tedious to clean, especially if it’s regularly used. The buildup of reclaim not only affects the look of the rig but also the taste of future dabs. A reclaim catcher minimizes the need for constant cleaning, making maintenance easier. By regularly emptying the catcher, you can keep your rig in optimal condition with minimal effort.
How to Install and Use a Reclaim Catcher
Setting up a reclaim catcher is a simple process, and once installed, it requires little maintenance. First, ensure your rig is clean and that you have the right reclaim catcher size for your joint. Reclaim catchers typically come in standard joint sizes, so double-check that you have the correct one before proceeding.
Once you’ve verified compatibility, attach the reclaim catcher between the nail and the downstem of your rig. The catcher should form a tight seal to ensure that vapor flows efficiently through the system. After heating your nail and applying the concentrate, the reclaim catcher will start collecting the excess material in its chamber. Keep an eye on the catcher’s jar and empty it when it begins to fill up. Regularly doing so will prevent the reclaim from hardening and becoming difficult to remove.
Types of Reclaim Catchers
Reclaim catchers come in different shapes and sizes, designed to fit various rig configurations. One popular design is the 45-degree reclaim catcher, which is ideal for dab rigs with angled joints. This type of catcher allows for seamless attachment without disrupting the flow of vapor. For rigs with vertical joints, the 90-degree reclaim catcher is more appropriate, sitting flush with the joint and ensuring easy reclaim collection.
Another option is the universal reclaim catcher, which can be adjusted to fit various joint sizes and angles. This flexibility makes it a great choice for users who have multiple rigs. No matter which type of reclaim catcher you choose, the main goal is to enhance your dabbing experience by keeping your rig cleaner and maximizing the utility of your concentrates.
Maximizing the Benefits of a Reclaim Catcher
To fully enjoy the advantages of a reclaim catcher, it’s important to integrate it into your regular dabbing routine. Start by making sure your rig and the reclaim catcher are both cleaned frequently to prevent the buildup of residue. Although reclaim is already decarboxylated and ready to use, its quality can degrade if left sitting too long in the jar. Empty the catcher after every few dabs to keep the reclaim fresh and potent.
Additionally, try experimenting with different ways to reuse your reclaim. While re-dabbing is the most straightforward option, many users find that making edibles with reclaim offers a longer-lasting high. Incorporating it into recipes for cannabis-infused butter or oil is a simple way to make use of the reclaimed material, ensuring that no part of your concentrate goes to waste.
Best Practices for Using Reclaim
To get the best results from your reclaim, it’s crucial to handle it properly. When dabbing reclaim, start by using a lower temperature than you would for fresh concentrate. This helps preserve what flavor remains and minimizes any harshness. While the taste of reclaim may be less appealing than fresh dabs, the cannabinoids remain effective, offering a strong and relaxing high.
When making edibles, keep in mind that reclaim has already gone through the decarboxylation process, meaning it’s ready to be infused into oils or butter without the need for additional heating. Simply melt it into your chosen fat, mix it into your recipe, and enjoy a potent edible experience. Be mindful of the dosage, as reclaim can still pack a punch, especially when consumed in higher quantities.
FAQs About Dab Rig Reclaim Catchers
What is reclaim?
Reclaim is the leftover concentrate that accumulates inside your dab rig after taking a hit. When you dab, not all of the concentrate vaporizes completely. Some of it cools down and condenses on the walls of your rig, particularly in the pathways that the vapor passes through. This leftover material is known as reclaim. Although it may not have the same fresh flavor or potency as the original concentrate, it still contains valuable cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Reclaim can be reused in various ways, including redabbing, incorporating it into edibles, or even using it topically. While some users prefer fresh concentrate for its taste and purity, reclaim provides an economical option for those who want to make the most out of their stash. Additionally, reclaim is already decarboxylated, meaning it can be directly consumed without the need for further heating.
Can I dab reclaim?
Yes, you can dab reclaim, though there are some caveats to consider. Reclaim can be less flavorful and may have a harsher taste compared to fresh concentrate due to the exposure to heat and the rig’s interior. However, the cannabinoids in reclaim are still active and can provide a decent high. For those on a budget or looking to stretch their supply, reclaim offers a viable option. When dabbing reclaim, it’s recommended to use a lower temperature than you would for fresh concentrate. Lower temperatures help mitigate the harshness and preserve any remaining flavor. Keep in mind that the high from reclaim may be slightly different due to the breakdown of terpenes and other compounds. Despite this, reclaim remains a popular choice for people who want to make the most of their concentrates.
How often should I empty my reclaim catcher?
The frequency with which you empty your reclaim catcher largely depends on how often you dab and the type of concentrates you use. Concentrates that are thicker and more resinous will produce more reclaim, meaning you’ll need to empty the catcher more frequently. For regular dabbers, it’s advisable to check the reclaim catcher after every few sessions to ensure it isn’t becoming overfilled. A full catcher not only becomes more difficult to clean but can also impact the airflow and performance of your dab rig. If you dab less frequently, you might be able to wait longer between cleanings. However, it’s a good practice to check the catcher regularly and empty it whenever a significant amount of reclaim has accumulated. This prevents the reclaim from hardening and becoming more challenging to remove.
Do reclaim catchers affect the quality of my dabs?
No, reclaim catchers do not affect the quality of your dabs in a negative way. In fact, they help improve the overall experience by keeping your rig cleaner for longer. Since reclaim catchers are designed to trap excess concentrate before it reaches the main body of your rig, they help maintain the purity of your hits. This is particularly beneficial if you are someone who enjoys clean, smooth dabs without the interference of residual buildup. By using a reclaim catcher, you can ensure that each dab tastes as fresh as possible. Additionally, reclaim catchers make the maintenance of your rig easier, reducing the need for constant deep cleaning and helping preserve the integrity of your rig over time. As a result, your rig will perform better and last longer.
How do I clean my reclaim catcher?
Cleaning a reclaim catcher is a simple process, especially when compared to the task of cleaning an entire dab rig. Start by detaching the reclaim jar or chamber from the catcher. Once removed, soak the jar in isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher is recommended) to dissolve the sticky resin. You can also use a cotton swab or soft brush to help dislodge any stubborn reclaim. After soaking for a few minutes, rinse the jar thoroughly with warm water and allow it to dry completely before reattaching it to your rig. For the main body of the catcher, if it also has reclaim buildup, use the same method: soak it in alcohol, scrub gently with a brush, and rinse it well. Regular cleaning will help ensure the reclaim catcher continues to function properly and keeps your rig cleaner for longer.
