Banger Hangers

It's no wonder banger hangers have carved out a loyal following in the dab scene.

Whether you're leveling up your glass collection or shopping for your first dab setup, we've got you covered. At DankGeek, we've curated a lineup of the best banger hangers that deliver on both function and style—because great hits start with great gear.

What are Banger Hangers?

Banger hangers are a specific style of dab rig designed for vaporizing cannabis concentrates. Their defining feature is a joint that sits at a 90-degree angle away from the main body of the piece. This joint allows a banger (the part where concentrates are vaporized) to be easily attached, creating a more upright and streamlined setup than traditional dab rigs.

Banger hangers have the following features:

• 90-Degree Joint: This rig's joint extends at a right angle, keeping the banger away from the main rig. This setup keeps the hot banger safely distanced and offers a clear view of the concentrate during use.

• Material: Manufacturers make most banger hangers from premium borosilicate glass, which is durable and heat-resistant.

• Airflow and Filtration: The design often includes minimal percolation, which helps preserve the flavor of concentrates while still providing some filtration for smoother hits.

• Compatibility: Banger hangers are compatible with various accessories, such as carb caps and different styles of bangers, allowing users to customize their dabbing experience.

Pros and Cons of Banger Hangers

Adding a banger hanger to your lineup is a smart move—but like any piece of gear, it has its highs and lows. Below, we break down the pros and cons so you can decide if this sturdy little rig is the perfect fit for your collection.

Pros

• Sleek and Stylish Design: Many banger hangers feature modern, attractive aesthetics that appeal to concentrate enthusiasts.

• Smooth and Flavorful Hits: The design, often with minimal percolation, preserves the flavor of concentrates while still providing some filtration for smoother hits.

• Durable Materials: Banger hangers made from high-grade borosilicate glass offer excellent resistance to thermal shock and accidental bumps, making them reliable for daily use.

• Ergonomic and Safe: The 90-degree joint gives you a clear top-down view, so you can drop in your wax with precision and keep your setup clean and dialed in.

• Customizable: It is compatible with various accessories, such as carb caps and different banger styles, allowing users to tailor their experience.

• Easy to Clean: The simple, open design makes cleaning straightforward, which helps maintain flavor and hygiene over time.

Cons

• Accessories Not Always Included: Though most banger hangers come with a quartz banger right out of the box, some brands don't include one. (We've made sure to point those ones out for you in their product descriptions 😉)

• Smaller Size: Most banger hangers are compact (4-8 inches), meaning less water but more terp-rich hits. If you’re chasing cooler, smoother rips, consider upgrading to a larger rig.

• Potential for Breakage: Although glass banger hangers are made from thick borosilicate glass, they are still susceptible to breaking if dropped or mishandled.

The Evolution of the Banger Hanger

The history of banger hangers closely follows the broader evolution of dab rigs. They emerged as part of the transition from early, rudimentary concentrate consumption methods to the sophisticated glass rigs used today.

Let's take a quick stroll down memory lane and explore the evolution of banger hangers over time.

The DIY Days: Hot Knives

Dabbing was a DIY adventure long before dab rigs had percs, recyclers, and sleek quartz accessories. From the '60s through the '90s, concentrate enthusiasts made do with hot knives—yes, literally heating butter knives on a stove to vaporize wax. It wasn't pretty and definitely not safe, but it got the job done.

Domes and Nails Changed the Game

In the early 2000s, dabbing took a major leap forward with the glass dome and nail. This setup swapped out the bulky skillet for a cleaner, more efficient design: a torch-heated glass nail (or banger) and a dome to trap vapor. It was a game-changer. It was the first real leap toward dabbing as we know it, setting the stage for more efficient, user-friendly rigs.

The Era of Quartz & Banger Hangers

By the 2010s, dab rigs had found their stride. Quartz bangers took over for their cleaner taste and heat control, while carb caps made sessions more efficient and flavorful.

The banger hanger style became popular as glassblowers and manufacturers refined dab rigs for functionality and aesthetics. With its sleek, minimalist design and signature right-angle joint that positions the banger away from the main rig, this piece has become a staple for serious concentrate fans, offering enhanced safety and refined functionality.

What's in a Banger Hanger? Anatomy 101

Banger hangers may look like minimalist masterpieces, but every piece has a purpose. Let's look closer under the hood and see what makes these rigs the go-to for wax lovers everywhere.

• Banger or Nail: The bucket-shaped part where concentrates are placed and heated. Many dabbers prefer quartz for its heat retention and flavor neutrality.

• Joint: The 90-degree connection between the banger and rig. Joints come in various sizes (10mm, 14mm, 18mm) and genders (male or female).

• Downstem: A glass tube that directs vapor from the banger into the water chamber. In many banger hangers, the downstem is fixed and integrated into the body for durability and easy cleaning.

• Water Chamber: The main body holds water, cools, and filters vapor. Banger hangers typically have smaller chambers to preserve flavor and provide minimal filtration.

• Base: The bottom of the banger hanger that provides stability and holds the water chamber.

• Percolator: A filtration device inside the water chamber that diffuses vapor for smoother hits. Banger hangers often feature minimal or simple percolators to maximize flavor retention.

• Mouthpiece: The part from which you inhale the vapor. Banger hangers usually have a narrow mouthpiece for a more direct hit.

Banger Hangers: What to Look For

When shopping for a banger hanger, there are a few things to consider when finding the perfect one for you. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Material

Acrylic

Acrylic rigs are affordable and durable, making them ideal for beginners or those prone to accidental drops. Just be mindful—flavor and heat resistance can't quite compete with glass options.

Borosilicate Glass

Known for its toughness and heat resistance, borosilicate glass is the gold standard for serious dabbers. It holds well under high temperatures and keeps your hits tasting clean and pure.

Glass

Plain glass rigs can still get the job done, but they're more fragile than borosilicate. They work well for casual use and offer a classic, see-through aesthetic.

Glycerin

You can freeze glycerin coils to enjoy icy-cool hits without using ice cubes. They're perfect for smooth inhales and turning up the chill factor in every session.

Silicone

Silicone rigs are nearly indestructible and easy to clean, making them great for travel or clumsy hands. While they're not as flavor-forward as glass, the convenience is hard to beat.

Thickness

When it comes to glass rigs, thickness matters—a lot. Thicker glass (usually 4mm and up) can handle the heat better, is less likely to break, and feels more solid in your hands. If you're investing in a piece you plan to keep around, don't skimp on the thickness—it's worth it for both durability and peace of mind.

DankGeek's Favorite Banger Hangers

Looking for a rig that checks all the boxes? Say no more. We did the heavy lifting (and dabbing) for you. These are the banger hangers our team can't stop raving about—trusted, tested, and worth the shelf space.

Keep the Gunk Out: Cleaning & Maintenance Tips

No one likes a gunked-up rig. A clean rig means smoother hits, better flavor, and a longer lifespan for your favorite piece.

Here are some easy cleaning and maintenance tips so your rig stays as fresh as your next dab.

Basic Cleaning After Each Use

• While the banger is still warm (not hot), use a Q-tip or cotton swab dipped in distilled water or isopropyl alcohol (preferably 91% or higher) to gently wipe out residual concentrate. It prevents buildup and maintains flavor purity.

• Rinse the banger with warm water to remove any alcohol and loosened residue.

• Use a dry Q-tip to remove any remaining moisture or residue.

• Allow the banger to dry completely before the next use.

• Avoid metal tools or abrasive scrubbers that can scratch and weaken the quartz surface.

Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Residue

• Soak the quartz banger in a cleaning solution for 15 to 30 minutes to break down tough buildup.

• Add coarse salt to the alcohol soak and gently agitate to help scrub off tough residue.

• After soaking, rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely.

Additional Maintenance Tips

• Avoid overheating the banger; optimal dabbing temperatures are generally between 350°F and 450°F. Overheating causes residue buildup and flavor degradation.

• If possible, have backup bangers to extend the lifespan of each piece.

• Store your banger hanger and quartz banger safely to prevent accidental damage.

The Perfect Accessories for Your Banger Hanger

Banger hangers are awesome on their own—but pair them with the right accessories, and you're in for a seriously upgraded sesh. Here are some must-have accessories that take your banger hanger to the next level.

• Quartz Bangers: If you're all about flavor and clean hits, quartz bangers are the way to go. Check out premium options from brands like Honeybee Herb and GRAV.

• Bangers: The heart of every good banger hanger setup—grab a high-quality banger that keeps your hits smooth and flavorful. Our collection from Pulsar and AFM won't disappoint.

• Quartz Nails: Quartz nails are a solid pick for dabbers who like clean and classy vapor. Enjoy crisp vapor and quick heat-up from High Five and Glasshouse.

• Carb Caps: Carb caps do more than cap off your setup—they boost airflow and flavor big time. Try stylish options from Empire Glassworks and High Society.

• Ceramic Nails: Want a nail that holds heat and brings out flavor? Ceramic nails like those from Focus V and Thick Ass Glass are perfect for low-temp connoisseurs.

• Dab Tools: Say goodbye to sticky fingers. Dab tools from AFM and Honeybee Herb make handling waxes clean, easy, and fun.

• Dishes & Dab Sets: Keep it tidy with slick dab dishes and matching sets. Explore curated combos from The Stash Shack and Glasshouse for style and function.

• Dab Mats & Pads: Protect your table and express your vibe with dab mats from DabPadz and StonerDays. They add color and keep messes in check.

• E-Nails: Torch-free precision is the name of the game. With High Five or Pulsar, you'll always have perfect temp control without the flame.

• Torch Lighters: Heat it right with torch lighters from Blazer and Wulf Mods. Dependable, powerful, and always ready to go.

• Wax Storage: Keep your concentrates fresh and stashable with our sturdy and colorful wax containers. Because nobody wants dry or sticky wax.

• Reclaimers: Catch the good stuff before it's gone. Reclaimers from PILOT DIARY or Thick Ass Glass help you save dabs and keep your rig cleaner.

• Terp Tools: Terp pearls, terp slurpers, and spinner caps—flavor fiends, this one's for you. Brands like Empire Glassworks and Honeybee Herb have you covered.

• Titanium Nails: Built like a tank and heats like a dream—titanium nails are made to last. Grab a beast from High Five or LavaTech.

• Cleaning Accessories: A fresh rig hits better, period. Stock up on essentials like isopropyl, cotton swabs, and cleaning supplies from Formula 420 and SnowTree.

• Replacement Joints & Adapters: Change it up or fix what's broken. These handy adapters from GRAV make any setup more versatile.

• Silicone Banger Stands: Rest your bangers in style with silicone stands from Ooze. Great for drying, storing, or showing off your lineup.

FAQs

What Is the Difference Between 10mm and 14mm Bangers?

10mm bangers heat up faster and work well for smaller rigs. 14mm bangers offer more airflow and smoother hits, which are great if you prefer a more relaxed session.

What Materials Are Banger Hangers Made From?

Most manufacturers use borosilicate glass to ensure durability and heat resistance. The banger is usually quartz, which holds heat well and keeps flavors clean. However, there are banger hangers that are acrylic and silicone as well.

Are Banger Hangers Easy to Clean?

Yes, they're simple to maintain. After each use, use isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab to clean your rig and keep everything tasting fresh.

What Accessories Are Compatible With Banger Hangers?

You can pair them with quartz bangers, carb caps, dab tools, reclaimers, and much more! You have plenty of options to customize your setup.

What Sizes of Bangers Fit Banger Hangers?

Common joint sizes are 10mm, 14mm, and 18mm. Ensure your banger size and joint type match your rig for a proper fit and airflow.

Are Banger Hangers Durable?

Although manufacturers craft banger hangers from durable materials like borosilicate glass and quartz, they can still break if dropped hard, so using a mat and stand helps protect them.

What Features Should I Look for in a High-Quality Banger Hanger to Ensure Durability?

Go for thick glass, solid joint construction, and a wide base for stability. A good quartz banger and a few accessories can also improve your setup.