Dabbing enthusiasts, listen up! Nectar collectors are about to become your new favorite cannabis gadget. This trendy new device is making waves in the concentrate world because it makes dabbing as easy as sipping your favorite drink through a straw. Curious? Read on to learn the basics of what is a nectar collector and why you may need one. 

Nectar Collector Basics

Perhaps inspired by nature’s own nectar collectors such as bees and hummingbirds, glass artist Kristian Merwin invented this small dab rig device in 2011, specifically for the purpise of smoking waxes and cannabis oils. 

While many brands have created their own version of this innovative device, all varieties feature a tube design so that it functions similar to a straw. One end of this “straw” is used as a mouthpiece, while the other end touches the concentrate of your choice. Traditionally, you can choose to fill the body with water or leave it dry, depending on the filtration that you are looking for. Nectar collectors are also designed to be held and used upright, providing a simple and effective way to vaporize sticky concentrates. 

Often referred to as honey straws or dab straws, these gadgets can come in a range of different materials, shapes, and sizes. More traditional styles are made with glass or silicone and need to be heated with a torch, whereas more contemporary plastic or metal versions do everything electronically. Therefore, the material and style you choose will have an impact on your overall smoking experience. The flavor-obsessed typically prefer glass nectar collectors but anything made with a more durable material is the best option for vaping on-the-go.

Pros and Cons of Using a Nectar Collector

In addition to how the device is heated, there are a number of positives and negatives to consider before trying out your first dab straw. 

Pros

Portable

Most nectar collectors are designed to be relatively small and can easily go on the road with you. Many brands even provide their own carrying case to make things simple. 

User-friendly

You don’t have to be an expert to understand how to use one of these gadgets. While some do require a little bit of dab knowledge others start working with the push of a button. Either way, you’ll be a pro in no time. 

Easy to clean

Unlike bulky dag rigs that may have a million different small parts to clean, dab straws are incredibly easy to clean. Simply use a q-tip or soak it in some isopropyl alcohol and it will be as good as new in just a few minutes. 

Discreet

Because of their small size and unique appearance, nectar collectors allow you can keep your smoking under the radar. When you’re not enjoying it, this device can easily get tucked away in a drawer and away from prying eyes. 

Cons

Less temperature control

One of the most important elements of dabbing is temperature control. A piping hot dab can lead to a big hit but harsh smoke while a more cool dab may be smaller and smoother. Many nectar collectors make it difficult to reach a precise temperature which could lead to disappointment or an uncomfortable experience. 

Smaller dabs

Unless you’re really comfortable with your dab device, it can be difficult to get a big hit because of the lack of temperature control. If you like big dragon clouds of smoke, it might take a little finesse to get exactly what you’re looking for. 

Can be delicate

If you choose to go with a glass version, you have to be careful not to break it. The delicate design requires care and caution. 

Final Thoughts

Nectar collectors make dabbing approachable for any level of experience. Plus, its portability and ingenious design make this dab device a must-have for cannabis concentrate lovers. And we all know the best place to get high-quality live resin, sauce, shatter, or anything in between is your local JARS.

Snowboarding season only comes around once a year so it’s important to be prepared with the perfect weed strains to go along with your wintertime activities. Whether you’re sipping a hot toddy back at that lodge or getting ready to shred your favorite trail, the buds you choose can make a major impact on your overall experience. Although each snowboarder has their own personal favorite, we’ve gathered a list of our favorite cannabis strains for hitting the slopes and beyond. 

Bubba Kush 

After a long day in fresh powder, your body can take a real beating. Whether you’re dealing with sore muscles or achy joints, Bubba Kush is said to relieve minor aches and pains, making it perfect for chilling with a mug of hot cocoa. From head to toe, you’ll feel a heaviness begin to settle in and a dreamy euphoria will float into your mindset with each puff. As you enjoy this classic indica strain, you’ll discover notes of mocha, dried herbs, and a hint of earth. 

Durban Poison

For many, Durban Poison is their go-to for any outdoor adventure, including snowboarding or skiing. The bright sativa effects give boost your mood and provide a slight burst of energy, bringing all of your senses to the present moment. Cruising through the snow, you may feel almost spiritual as you feel the cold wind on your skin and watch the fluffy flake fall from the sky. No matter what you’re doing, it’s hard to be in a bad mood when you’re smoking Durban Poison. 

Forbidden Fruit 

Perfect for an evening sesh spent fireside, Forbidden Fruit is like a tropical cocktail of calm. With notes of fresh mango, bright grapefruit, and sweet cherry, all that’s missing is a little umbrella. Puff on this weed strain to discover a carefree attitude, ease sore muscles, or help you get a good night’s rest before heading out to your spot for another day in the snow.  

Northern Lights 

When you think about the clear sky on a crisp winter night, the glittering stars are often one of the first things that comes to mind — that’s one of the reasons we had to put Northern Lights on this list. Named after the famed Aurora Borealis light show that happens over some of the world’s most snow-covered destinations, these pine-forward buds are both soothing and stimulating. 

Despite being an indica-dominant strain, Northern Lights awakens the adventurous spirit within all of us and ushers in a euphoric state of mind. Just a few puffs will get your mind right and a few puffs more will eventually carry you off to sleep — so be sure to watch how much you smoke if you don’t want to drift off to la-la-land. 

Super Silver Haze 

There’s nothing like a classic sativa strain to bust the wintertime blues. Its citrusy aroma and sage-like flavor uplift your mood while offering a buzzy body high that lasts for hours. The long-lasting euphoric effects will effortlessly carry you through your day on the slopes without a single care in the world. 

Stop By JARS Before You Hit the Slopes

Whether you’re looking for an uplifting, energetic strain or a relaxing, pain-reducing strain, we’ve got everything you need at JARS. Ask our budtenders for any of the strains above or have them recommend something just for you.