What is a Recycler Rig? | Types of Recycler Dab Rigs
Posted by Jack Daniels (Edited by Jay Dreadhead) on 17th May 2015
When it comes to oils and concentrates, retaining as much flavor as possible is the key, and for many seasoned heads nothing on the market saves the flave quite like a recycler rig.
A recycler rig is a piece of functional glass that typically uses two chambers instead of just one, transferring the vapor from the first chamber to the second along a stream of cool water, delivering what many consider to be the smoothest hit you can get.
✔ Better flavor retention
✔ Cooler smoother hits
✔ Splash resistance
✔ Mesmerizing function
As with most rigs, it all starts with the percolator. Whether you prefer simple 1 or 2 hole diffusion, or if you like more froth like from an inline or matrix perc, The Dab Lab has got you covered with the hottest recycler rig options from today’s top brands and artists.
Using a recycler properly requires a longer, slower draw from the user, which can be a bit odd at first when combined with the added restriction that most recycler rigs have due to their design. But once you are used to it, the cyclical action taking place inside the rig will wow your friends while also delivering a perfect rip for you each and every time.
As the vapor moves through the perc, and into the water, that water is drawn through a tube from the first chamber to the second chamber, located closer to the user’s mouth. This long contact with the water constantly cools the traveling vapor as freshly recycled water continuously moves through both chambers of the rig.

Releasing the vapor from the stream of water just as it reaches the user’s mouth provides what many consider to be the truest, most flavorful hit that you can find. The recycling effect also serves as an effective splash guard, letting the water bring the vapor much closer to your mouth than most rigs will allow.
As an added bonus, the constant recycling action of the water leads to little or no dry glass space inside the chambers, giving pesky reclaim less surface area to stick to, keeping your rig a bit prettier between cleanings.
Some recycler rigs, especially those with simpler diffusion, will provide a whirlpool drainage effect between the chambers after each hit. Though it does not really add to the flavor or effects, it’s fun to watch!
Most recycler rigs feature a wide and sturdy base, making them ideal for use with electronic nails.
With so many options available these days, finding a recycler with a perfect balance of form and function can seem like a daunting task, but it’s never been easier here at TheDabLab.com where we bring the marketplace to you!
Contact us today and we will help you choose the perfect recycler to match your style. Or start browsing our recycler section now!
Types of Recycler Rigs
Classic Recycler (External Recycler) – This type of recycler features a funnel and drain tube that connects from the top of the can of the rig to the bottom of the can. The funnel and drain is on the outside of the can creating a loop. This design really shows off the tornado effect often seen with recycler rigs. The infamous RBR Rig falls under this category. It's a simple, but extremely effective design that still hold up to this day!
Internal Recycler (Incycler) – There are 2 types of incyclers. (1) One features an external tube(s) that brings the water from the first chamber to the second where the drain is. The drain funnel is on the inside of the rig. (2) The other version, the water travels through small holes at the top of the drain funnel instead of traveling through an external tube.
Klein Recycler – This type of recycler features a "klein weld". They are like a hybrid of an external and internal recycler. They are designed like internal recyclers, but the drain doesn't just go straight down to the bottom of the can. It first exits the can and then loops back inside. The reason this is done is so the drain does not get in the way of the percolator. You don't want them to interfere with each other and a "klein weld" is the best way to make sure the doesn't happen.
Bubble Dumper Recycler – This unique recycler design ditches the traditional funnel found on most recyclers and instead focuses on aggressively dumping bubbles through an external drain system. Similar to an external recycler, it swaps the signature tornado drain effect for an insane volume of bubble action, creating dense, satisfying function that’s just as mesmerizing to watch in motion.

Hybrid Recycler – Hybrid recyclers blend together multiple popular recycler styles into one highly functional design, combining the best features from each. By mixing different drain systems, chambers, and airflow paths, these pieces create unique function profiles you won’t find in standard recyclers. For example, the Designer Sci Hybrid Recycler merges a classic recycler layout with an external funnel drain and bubble dumper drain for the ultimate combination of smooth recycling, visual function, and bubble action. The Inception Recycler takes a different approach by combining the Klein design with bubble dumper technology for enhanced function and an eye-catching display of movement.

Find Your Perfect Recycler!
Need help choosing the right recycler? Our team can help match you with the perfect style.
info@thedablab.com | @thedablab
Shop Recycler Rigs