Tips For Choosing Your Next Glass Bong
Bong Choosing Tips
With all the bong styles out on the market today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and confused. Regardless of whether you’re seeking to replace an old and worn out bong, buying your first glass pipe, or adding to your collection of favorite smoking devices, taking time to consider a few key elements when shopping will help make sure you get the best value and use from your new glass bong.
The Type of Herb you Use Matters
Water pipes work best for both dry herbs and concentrates, and which herbal preparation you use will dictate the kind of pipe you should buy. Dry herbs and tobacco generally need to be used with a bowl and a pipe that has a stem at a 45 or 90-degree angle. Conversely, concentrates require a dab nail that has a stem at a 90-degree angle.
For those who prefer to use both dry herbs and concentrates, it’s recommended to use a small-to-medium-sized glass bong that can be coupled with a quartz banger attachment. This will allow you to easily switch between concentrates and dry herbs.
Consider the Percolator
Percolators offer optimal diffusion. In fact, their sole purpose is to diffuse the smoke. Put more scientifically, when you burn any type of dry herb, it creates an unhealthy combustion. In order to avoid inhaling these harmful byproducts of combustion, percolators filter out toxins while cooling down the smoke. The end result of all this filtration and diffusion is a cleaner, smoother hit that both you and your lungs will be thankful for.
Some bongs have built-in honeycomb or tree percolator diffusers, but you can also add in an ash-catcher. Those who prefer dry herbs simply go with preference when it comes to percolators, while those who use concentrates have different options altogether. In general, there is less combustion involved with concentrates, so only minimal diffusion and a smaller pipe will be needed in order to get the best flavor.
Size Matters
Before you spend your hard-earned money on a bong, you should consider how you will be using it. How you use your bong — whether outside during recreational activities or strictly as a home device — will dictate its size and the material it is constructed out of in order for you to get the best flavor and use possible.
Smaller pipes are ideal to use on-the-go, while larger pipes will make for great home pieces that allow for more room for percolation and modifications. Be aware, though, that larger pipes are more costly depending on the material, style, and brand.
Lung capacity is yet another consideration. First-timers or those who prefer to take smaller hits will want to go with a small or medium water pipe. Beakers and small pipes with bell-shaped bases are durable and can withstand a lot more than larger pipes. It’s important to note that larger pipes, due to their size and center of gravity, have a better chance of shattering. In order to reduce this type of damage, it’s better to opt for a smaller pipe that will be safer to transport or pass around in a large group of people. As a general rule, larger pipes are best for more experienced smokers or those who are used to taking larger hits. If you desire to have a statement piece that will be solely for home use, then a larger bong is the best way to go.
Glass is Best
Today’s pipes are made out of everything from acrylic to plastic, ceramic, bamboo, silicone, and glass. The type of material will not only dictate how it affects the flavor, but also the overall cost to your wallet. Glass pieces are highly beautiful and artistic and be modified in any way. Pipes made of glass are always a classic go-to because of their durability and ability to be modified and added on to. When selecting a glass bong, those made out of scientific glass will be more durable, thicker, and tougher to break.
Expense is a Key Factor
Keep in mind, the more intricate and colorful a pipe is, the more it will cost. The elegance and durability of a scientific glass bong will not only be kind to your pocketbook but will also save you money over time by allowing for future modifications through intricate glass adapters and add-ons. A good rule of thumb is to do your homework and research the different kinds of glass bongs out on the market today, then venturing out to browse a variety of shops in order to find the best styles and prices that fit your needs.
Hand-blown artisan pipes will be more expensive than an average glass bong due to the intricate and delicate design process. For example, a basic glass pipe will run anywhere from $10 to $25, while a hand-crafted pipe that doubles as an art piece will run anywhere from $25 to $300 and up. However, if you’re searching for something that will be a one-of-a-kind, unique piece, then you can always have your glass pipe custom-made for anywhere between $100 to $200. Although this price may seem steep, know that you will be getting a unique piece of one-of-a-kind art that is sure to make for an amazing conversation starter at all of your gatherings.
It’s All About You in the End
Buying a bong — whether it’s your first, or the next of many in your extensive collection — is all about personal preference, taste, and knowing which one will be best suited for you in the long-run. So, take the time, do the research, and be patient in figuring out which pipe will be best for you.
