Bongs & Water Pipes

When you want to enjoy high-quality cannabis, there’s no way better to do so than with a water bong. Bongs are important tools that have been enjoyed and celebrated throughout human history, and they’re more popular than ever in the US, thanks to increasing legalization throughout many states.

All that said, lots of would-be smoking enthusiasts don’t quite understand bongs. After all, why would you bother setting up a smoking rig when you can easily roll a cigarette or use a vape instead? 

In truth, there are lots of great reasons why you should smoke with a water bong. Today, let’s break down what water bongs are, how they work, and how you can choose the right water bong for your needs and smoking preferences.

What is a bong?

Simply put, a water bong or “water pipe” is a smoking device that filters smoke from burning herbs, like cannabis, through water at its base. Water Bongs have been around for thousands of years, practically ever since humans invented smoking. They’re invaluable smoking accessories for enjoying marijuana in a variety of strains.

While the majority of bongs were historically created out of glass or ceramic, now you can get bongs in many different bong materials, styles, and types. Bongs can even be used to enjoy marijuana concentrate or “dab.” You can use a glass water bong, ceramic water bongs and water pipes, acrylic bongs, or even water bongs made of silicone.

Introduction to Water Pipes

Water pipes, also known as bongs, are a popular smoking device used for consuming cannabis, tobacco, and other herbal substances. They work by filtering smoke through water, which cools and purifies the smoke, making it smoother and more enjoyable to inhale. Water pipes have been used for centuries, with the first recorded use dating back to ancient China. Today, water pipes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, including glass, silicone, acrylic, and bamboo.

Glass bongs are a classic choice, known for their purity of flavor and aesthetic appeal. Silicone bongs, on the other hand, are durable and often more affordable, making them ideal for casual use or travel. Acrylic bongs are lightweight and come in a variety of colors and designs, while bamboo bongs offer a natural, eco-friendly option. Each material has its own unique benefits, catering to different smoking preferences and lifestyles.

How do bongs work?

Despite their simplicity, lots of MJ fans don’t really know how bongs work or why they are so valuable!

In a nutshell, bongs work by filtering smoke through water. To use a water bong, you ignite herbs with a lighter or another instrument. The smoke from the ignited herbs then goes down through a tube into water, which is stored in a bong’s base.

When you inhale through a bong’s mouthpiece, the smoke from the burning herbs goes through a removable, diffused downstem, allowing for effective smoke diffusion. It then passes into the main base of the bong, allowing it to percolate in the water.

Essentially, the water in the base of your bong then cleans the smoke and cools it down, allowing for a more enjoyable smoking experience. You then inhale the smoke that’s been filtered through the water. In contrast, smoking marijuana through a cigarette or through other methods can exposes your throat and lungs to hotter, harsher smoke, and potentially to more toxins. For a lot of people, smoking cannabis with a bong is the best way to enjoy marijuana!

How do you use a water pipe?

If you’ve never used a water bong before, rest assured the process is pretty easy! Mini bongs are also a great option for those who prefer a more portable and discreet smoking experience. Just follow this tutorial and you’ll enjoy high-quality hits in no time.

1. Start by adding water to your bong. You can typically fill your bong’s reservoir by putting water through the mouthpiece. Try to use distilled and unchlorinated water, and don’t overfill — add just enough water to cover the opening of the downstem.

2. Next, if your water bong has an ice catcher, add ice to your bong. This helps to cool the smoke even further.

3. Break up your chosen cannabis flower. Grinding your weed is preferred, since it’ll result in a smoother hit, but it’s not required.

4. Then pack your water bong bowl with your chosen cannabis or herb. To pack it correctly, fill the bowl with your herbs and spread it out evenly. Tap the bud lightly, just enough so it stays in place — don’t pack it in too tightly, or air won’t be able to flow through.

5. Now you’re ready to light up. Choose a lighter or match, then put your mouth over the water bong’s mouthpiece. If your bong comes with a carb (small air hole separate from the mouthpiece or downstem), cover it with one finger.

6. Make contact between the bud and the flame. Try to hover your lighter over the bowl evenly.

7. Inhale! For an intense experience, try to inhale slowly, as this will allow more smoke to fill up inside your water pipe.

Like all things, you’ll get better at smoking with a bong with practice!

Why should I use a water pipe bong?

There are lots of reasons why you should use a water pipe when smoking marijuana or other burnable herbs. It all stems from the water filtration system.

As detailed above, a bong’s water filtration system cools and then filters the smoke you create. When you inhale, the resulting smoke is cleaner, cooler, and more comfortable than it would be otherwise.

As a result, you can take longer and bigger hits, allowing you to enjoy the psychoactive effects of cannabis even more intensely. Massive bongs are ideal for group sessions, providing bigger hits that appeal to seasoned smokers. Plus, you spare your lungs from potential damage or irritation; say goodbye to constantly coughing or hacking each time you take a hit!

For many MJ enthusiasts, bongs have an added benefit: style. There are tons of high-quality, well-designed bongs that look fantastic, whether you store them on your shelf, on a table, or hold them in your hand.

Some water bongs are even designed to be shared, so they feature removable mouthpieces. This contributes to a more sanitary smoking experience for everyone.

Bongs are great smoking tools for newcomers to cannabis since they’re easy, make the smoking experience more comfortable, and are fairly difficult to mess up.

What Is a Percolator in Percolator Bongs?

A percolator in a bong, commonly known as a “perc,” serves an essential function in enhancing the smoking experience. Borosilicate glass is often used for percolators due to its heat-resistant properties, ensuring durability and a better smoking experience. It is an additional filtering layer within the bong designed to refine the smoke effectively.

How Does It Work?

The primary role of a percolator is to diffuse smoke, dispersing it into smaller particles as it passes through the water, effectively enhancing smoke diffusion. This process increases the smoke’s surface area, allowing the water to cool and filter it extensively before inhalation.

Benefits of a Percolator

• Cooler Smoke: Due to the increased exposure to water, the smoke is cooled considerably, making each hit smoother on the throat.

• Smooth Hits: The filtration process removes a significant amount of harshness from the smoke, resulting in cleaner and softer hits.

• Variety and Customization: Available in various designs and styles, each percolator type offers distinct advantages, catering to different preferences and needs.

In summary, a percolator’s job in a bong is key to a pleasant smoking session, providing a smoother, cooler, and cleaner inhalation experience.

Bong Components

A bong typically consists of several key components, each playing a crucial role in the smoking experience. The downstem is a tube that connects the bowl to the water chamber, allowing smoke to pass through the water. Understanding these components can help you choose the right bong and maintain it effectively.

Water Chamber and Downstem

The water chamber is the main body of the bong, where the water is held. This is where the magic happens, as the water cools and filters the smoke, resulting in a smoother hit. The downstem is a tube that connects the bowl to the water chamber, allowing smoke to pass through the water. Typically made of glass or metal, the downstem is designed to be removable for easy cleaning. This ensures that your bong remains in top condition, providing cooler smoke with each use.

Bowl and Ashcatcher

The bowl is where you place your cannabis or tobacco. It’s designed to hold your herbs securely while you light them. The ashcatcher is a small chamber that catches ash and debris before it enters the water chamber, keeping your bong cleaner for longer. Both the bowl and ashcatcher are usually made of glass or metal and are designed to be removable, making them easy to clean and maintain. This not only enhances the smoking experience but also prolongs the life of your bong.

Types of Bongs

Bong Accessories and Maintenance

In addition to the main components, there are several accessories and maintenance tips that can enhance the performance and longevity of a bong.

• Cleaning Kits: Consider using a bong cleaning kit or a specialized cleaning solution to make the process easier and more effective. These kits often include brushes and solutions designed specifically for bongs.

Percolators and Recyclers

Percolators and recyclers are two popular accessories that can be added to a bong to enhance the smoking experience. Percolator bongs are designed to effectively diffuse smoke, breaking it into smaller particles and increasing its surface area. This process cools the smoke considerably, making each hit smoother on the throat. Recyclers, on the other hand, use a two-chamber system to recycle water and vapor, providing a smoother hit and preventing splashback. Both percolators and recyclers can be made of glass or metal and are designed to be easy to clean and maintain.

Cleaning and Storage

Cleaning and storing your bong is essential to maintain its performance and longevity. Here are some tips to help you keep your bong in top condition:

• Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your bong with a gentle cleaning solution and warm water to remove any residue and debris. This helps to maintain the purity of your smoke and ensures a smoother experience.

• Scrubbing: Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any stubborn stains or buildup. This is especially important for the downstem and bowl, where residue can accumulate.

• Rinsing: Rinse your bong thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue. This step is crucial to avoid any unpleasant tastes during your next session.

• Drying: Dry your bong with a soft cloth to prevent water spots. Make sure all parts are completely dry before storing to avoid mold and mildew.

• Storage: Store your bong in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid exposing your bong to extreme temperatures or humidity, as this can affect its durability.

• Cleaning Kits: Consider using a bong cleaning kit or a specialized cleaning solution to make the process easier and more effective. These kits often include brushes and solutions designed specifically for bongs.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your bong remains in excellent condition, providing you with a high-quality smoking experience every time.

What should I look for when buying glass bongs for sale?

There are lots of factors to consider when buying cool bongs, especially if you haven’t purchased one before. When looking for a new bong, you’ll want to consider:

• The size and height of a water pipe. Bigger water pipes allow you to take longer, larger hits, but they are oftentimes harder to clean, and they may be heavier. If a water pipe has a longer stem and neck toward the mouthpiece, that could result in cooler smoke by the time it reaches your lungs, resulting in a more enjoyable experience.

• The material the bong is made out of. Generally, you can find bongs made of glass, ceramic, or silicone. Glass is the classic material, but it can be fragile. Ceramic is a little more decorative, but can also be easy to break. Silicone bongs are newer, but they’re also cheaper and more durable.

• The style. Lots of people like to pick up bongs that speak to them in terms of shape or aesthetic. You can find lots of cool bongs with wicked shapes, such as spirals, that may add to your social smoking experience. Alternatively, maybe you prefer a straightforward water pipe with a basic shape and stem.

• Beaker bongs: Known for their stability and larger water capacity, beaker bongs offer enhanced filtration and cooling for smoother hits.

• Whether the bong has a percolator. Percolators are unique bong components that defuse hot smoke through water inside their primary chambers. Percolators with more surface area cool down smoke more effectively.

• The price. Of course, some bongs are much more affordable than others — but cheap bongs aren’t necessarily high quality. You may wish to consider the overall price of a bong online before buying one, especially if you are new to smoking. If you are new, stick with an affordable, durable bong while you figure out the best bong for you.

How to Choose the Perfect Bong for Your Needs

Selecting the right bong can elevate your smoking experience, but with so many options, how do you choose? Start by deciding what you’ll primarily use it for: dry herbs and flowers or dabs and concentrates, which are typically used with a dab rig.

Consider the Following Key Factors:

1. Material:

Glass: Offers purity of flavor and aesthetic appeal but can be fragile. Silicone: Durable and often more affordable, ideal for more casual use or travel.

2. Size and Height:

Consider where you will be using the bong. Larger bongs tend to provide cooler smoke due to the greater distance the smoke must travel, which is great for home use. Smaller bongs are perfect for portability.

3. Style and Functionality:

Bongs come in various shapes such as straight-tube, beaker-shaped, and more complex designs like percolator bongs which further filter the smoke. Think about ease of maintenance and your lifestyle needs.

4. Type of Percs:

Percolators are a critical feature; they cool and filter the smoke. Options include tree, inline, showerhead, and more. Each type offers a different balance of cooling and filtration.

5. Price:

Set a budget before you start shopping. Remember, investing a bit more can often get you a bong that will last longer and provide a better smoking experience.

Remember, the best bong for you is one that fits your specific smoking preferences, matches your lifestyle, and falls within your budget. Experiment with different types to find the perfect match. Happy shopping!

Considerations and Recommendations

When choosing a bong, there are several factors to consider to ensure you find the right one for your needs. Here are some recommendations to keep in mind:

• Material: Glass bongs are popular for their clarity and ease of cleaning, while silicone bongs are durable and easy to transport. Each material has its own benefits, so consider what suits your lifestyle best.

• Size: Beaker bongs are great for those who want a larger water capacity, providing enhanced filtration and cooling for smoother hits. On the other hand, mini bongs are perfect for those who want a more discreet and portable option.

• Percolators: Look for a bong with a percolator. Percolator bongs provide a smoother, cooler smoke and are a great option for those who want a more enjoyable smoking experience.

• Style: Acrylic bongs are a great option for those who want a more affordable choice, while bamboo bongs offer a unique and eco-friendly alternative. Consider the aesthetic and functional aspects that appeal to you.

• Smoking Preferences: If you prefer a slower burn, look for a bong with a slow-burning paper wick. If you prefer a cooler smoke, opt for a bong with a built-in ice catcher. Tailoring your bong to your smoking preferences can significantly enhance your experience.

By considering these factors, you can find a bong that perfectly matches your needs and preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable smoking experience.

What types of water pipes are there?

Good news! The bong world offers tons of different water pipes and bongs you can purchase depending on your preferences, the type of grass you like to smoke, and other factors. You can find just about every type of bongs online. To learn about different types of bongs: shapes and materials head over here > Types of Bongs (with pictures).

Glass Bongs

Glass bongs are a popular choice among smokers due to their clarity and ease of cleaning. Here are some benefits of glass bongs:

• Smooth, Cooler Smoke: Glass bongs provide a smooth, cooler smoke due to their ability to effectively diffuse smoke. This results in a more enjoyable and less harsh smoking experience.

• Heat-Resistant: Glass bongs are heat-resistant and can withstand high temperatures, making them durable and long-lasting.

• Easy to Clean: Glass bongs are easy to clean and maintain, making them a great option for those who want a low-maintenance bong. Regular cleaning ensures that your bong remains in top condition.

• Variety of Styles and Sizes: Glass bongs come in a variety of styles and sizes, from massive bongs to mini bongs. Whether you prefer a large, elaborate piece or a small, portable option, there’s a glass bong for you.

• High-Quality: Glass bongs are a great option for those who want a high-quality bong that will last for years to come. Their durability and aesthetic appeal make them a favorite among many smokers.

With their numerous benefits, glass bongs are an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their smoking experience.

Silicone Bongs

Silicone bongs are a popular choice among smokers due to their durability, flexibility, and ease of use. Unlike glass bongs, silicone bongs are virtually unbreakable and can withstand rough handling, making them perfect for outdoor use or for those who tend to be a bit clumsy. Their heat-resistant properties ensure that the smoke remains cooler, providing a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

One of the standout features of silicone bongs is their flexibility. They can be bent and twisted without breaking, making them incredibly easy to store and transport. Cleaning is also a breeze, as many silicone bongs are dishwasher safe. Their resistance to scratches and cracks ensures they remain in good condition for a long time.

Silicone bongs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from mini bongs to massive bongs, catering to different smoking preferences. They are available in a range of colors and designs, allowing you to choose one that suits your style. Some silicone bongs even feature percolators, which effectively diffuse smoke, providing a smoother hit.

These bongs are also versatile, suitable for smoking tobacco or other herbal substances. They are user-friendly and provide a smooth, cooler smoke that is gentler on the lungs. For those who enjoy experimenting with different smoking techniques, such as using a slow-burning paper wick, silicone bongs are an excellent choice.

In terms of bong materials, silicone bongs offer a unique combination of durability, flexibility, and ease of use, making them a popular choice among smokers. Whether you’re looking for a mini bong for portability or a massive bong for group sessions, silicone bongs can provide a smooth and enjoyable smoking experience.

While glass bongs remain the most popular choice in the bong world due to their clarity and ease of cleaning, silicone bongs are a fantastic alternative for those seeking a more durable and flexible option. They may not have the same aesthetic appeal as glass bongs, but their practical benefits make them a worthy addition to any smoker’s collection.

In conclusion, silicone bongs are a great option for anyone looking for a durable, flexible, and easy-to-use bong. They offer a unique combination of heat resistance, flexibility, and ease of use that makes them a popular choice among smokers. Whether you’re looking for a mini bong or a massive bong, silicone bongs are a great option that can provide a smooth and enjoyable smoking experience.

Other Materials

In addition to glass and silicone, there are several other materials that bongs can be made from. Here are some benefits of other materials:

• Bamboo Bongs: Bamboo bongs are a great option for those who want an eco-friendly and sustainable bong. They offer a natural aesthetic and are often handcrafted, adding a unique touch to your smoking experience.

• Acrylic Bongs: Acrylic bongs are a great option for those who want a more affordable bong. They are lightweight, durable, and come in a variety of colors and designs, making them a fun and practical choice.

• Metal Bongs: Metal bongs are a great option for those who want a durable and long-lasting bong. They are virtually unbreakable and can withstand rough handling, making them ideal for travel or outdoor use.

• Ceramic Bongs: Ceramic bongs are a great option for those who want a bong that is heat-resistant and easy to clean. They often feature artistic designs and can be a beautiful addition to your collection.

• Water Pipes: Water pipes can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, silicone, and acrylic. Each material offers different benefits, so consider what works best for your smoking preferences and lifestyle.

By exploring the different materials available, you can find a bong that suits your needs and enhances your smoking experience.

What are the best water bong brands?

Thanks to the recent pushes for marijuana legalization in many US states, there are now tons of top water bong brands you can buy from. Thus, this brand is a great choice if you want to purchase not only a few water pipes but also other smoking accessories or specialized bongs for smoking concentrate. Let’s take a look at three of the best bong brands in the market today.

Grav Labs

First up is GRAV Labs: one of the most notorious water pipe creators ever (in a good way). It was founded almost 20 years ago in Texas and, ever since, has been making scientific high-quality glass water pipes and bongs.

If you’re interested in the aesthetic or style of glass bongs, you might not find anyone better. That’s partially because GRAV Labs employs glassblowing experts (over 30 in total). On top of that, this brand features a unique Helix water pipe design. The unique design allows for extra volume inside their pipes, meaning that the smoke has extra time to cool.

 When you want clean, complex, and well-designed glass bongs, GRAV Labs is the way to go!

Puffco

PuffCo is a 2013 company that has merged technology, engineering, and design disciplines together to create high-quality bongs and dab rigs, as well as vaporizers. Thus, this brand is a great choice if you want to purchase not only a few water pipes but also other smoking accessories or specialized bongs for smoking concentrate.

Keith Haring Glass

Keith Haring’s glass water pipes are also great choices, especially for more aesthetically minded smokers. That’s because many of this brand’s water pipes are designed in unique and funky shapes, like mazes, spirals, and more.

 You can find bongs from this artist and activist made of ultra-clear, high-quality, premium borosilicate glass. This means that they have the aesthetic benefits of glass pipes without as much fragility (though they still aren’t quite as durable as silicone pipes).

Wrap Up

All in all, bongs and water pipes are a major part of a consistent, smooth, high-quality smoking experience. If you’ve never tried a hit with a bong before, we highly recommend you do so. Bongs can enhance how you feel when you smoke and save your lungs from irritation or inflammation; what’s not to like?

Best of all, it’s easier than ever to pick up a quality bong (or two) at Cannabox. We’ve got bongs for sale, smoking pipes for sale plus accessories and weed pipes from the above brands in a wide variety of styles, materials, and pricing points. Dive into the bong world and check out our selection of water pipes today!