Understanding the parts of these dab gears shows how they create a better dabbing experience. Each feature is designed for performance and flavor.

What Are The Benefits Of Opaque Quartz Inserts?

Opaque quartz is valued for its great thermal properties. Unlike clear quartz, which can develop hot spots, opaque quartz distributes heat more slowly and evenly across its surface. This "low and slow" heating is perfect for vaporizing delicate terpenes without burning them, leading to a much more flavorful experience. It also means the insert stays at the right temperature for longer.

How Does The Gear Design Create Better Airflow?

The gear's design works with a directional airflow carb cap . As air flows into the banger, the gear's angled fins catch it like a pinwheel, causing it to spin fast. This motion creates a mini-cyclone inside your banger, ensuring your concentrate is constantly stirred and exposed to the hot surface for complete vaporization.

For the best flavor, we recommend using a " cold start " dabbing technique. This method heats the concentrate and banger together, preserving the terpenes that can be lost with a very hot nail.

What Is The Cold Start Method With An Insert?

A cold start, or reverse dab, means loading your concentrate into the gear while the insert and banger are both at room temperature. You then heat the outside of the banger until the concentrate melts and vaporizes. This gives you maximum control and ensures you're dabbing at the lowest possible temperature.

6 Steps for a Perfect Cold Start Dab

1. Load the Insert: Place a small amount of concentrate in the center of a clean, cool dab gear.
2. Position the Insert: Carefully place the loaded insert into the center of your cold quartz banger.
3. Start Heating: With a torch , apply heat to the bottom and sides of the banger. Keep the flame moving for even heating.
4. Watch for Melting: Heat for about 8-12 seconds, or until you see the concentrate bubble and turn to liquid.
5. Cap and Inhale: As soon as it melts, turn off the torch, place your carb cap on the banger, and inhale slowly. The gear will start to spin.
6. Clean Up: After your dab, use a cotton swab to wipe any residue from the insert and banger while they're still warm.

While all inserts help protect your banger and manage heat, their designs provide different experiences. Here's how our Opaque Dab Gears compare to other popular inserts under $20.

Proper cleaning is key to keeping your quartz inserts performing well and tasting pure. A clean gear spins better and delivers better flavor. If you don't clean them, residue can build up and affect both taste and function.

Can You Prevent Chazzing On An Opaque Insert?

Yes. Chazzing is the black, burnt-on carbon caused by overheating leftover residue. The best way to prevent it is to use the cold start method and clean your insert with a cotton swab after every use while it's still warm. For tougher spots, a quick soak in isopropyl alcohol will lift the residue right off without scrubbing.

Quartz Insert Cleaning Checklist

• Wipe After Use: Use a cotton swab to clean the insert right after each session while it's warm.
• Designate a Soaking Jar: Keep a small, sealed glass jar with 91%+ isopropyl alcohol nearby.
• Drop and Soak: After swabbing, drop the warm insert into the alcohol.
• Let It Sit: Let the insert soak for at least 30 minutes or until all residue is gone.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Remove the insert from the alcohol and rinse it well with warm water to remove any remaining ISO.
• Air Dry Completely: Place the insert on a clean towel and let it air dry fully before using it again.

Perfecting your setup doesn't stop with inserts. You can browse our full collection or learn more about the science of dabbing with our expert guides.

• Shop the entire Quartz & Titanium Inserts collection.
• Learn about dabbing methods in our guide to the best dabbing techniques .
• Read our full guide on how to use quartz inserts for any situation.