A bong, also known as a water pipe, is a type of smoking device that uses water to filter and cool the smoke before it is inhaled. Bongs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be made from different materials such as glass, acrylic, ceramic, metal, or bamboo.
In this article, we will explore the different types of bongs and water pipes, including their materials, styles, and popular modifications and accessories. We will also take a look at other types of water pipes, such as bubblers, dab rigs, gravity bongs, and hookahs. Whether you are a seasoned smoker or new to the world of bongs and water pipes, this article will provide valuable information to help you choose the right one for you.
Types of Bongs and Water Pipes
Bongs come in all shapes, sizes, materials, and designs, but they all use water to aerate clean the smoke through water. Below are some of the most common configurations to do so.
Bongs:
A bong, also known as a water pipe, is a type of smoking device that uses water to filter and cool the smoke before it is inhaled. Bongs come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be made from different materials such as glass, acrylic, ceramic, metal, or bamboo. The advantages of using a bong include the fact that the water helps to filter out impurities and cool the smoke, which can make for a smoother and more enjoyable smoking experience. Additionally, the use of a bong can also be more efficient as it allows for a larger hit to be taken at once.Bubblers:
A bubbler is a type of water pipe that is smaller and more portable than a bong. Like a bong, it uses water to filter and cool the smoke. Bubblers typically have a bowl for the dry herb and a stem that leads to a chamber filled with water. The smoke then bubbles through the water before it is inhaled. The advantages of using a bubbler include their portability and the fact that they still offer the benefits of water filtration and cooling.Dab Rigs:
A dab rig is a type of water pipe specifically designed for use with concentrates such as wax or shatter. They are similar to bongs in that they use water to filter and cool the smoke, but they have a nail or banger in place of a bowl to hold the concentrate. The advantages of using a dab rig include the fact that they provide a cleaner and more flavorful hit, as well as the ability to take larger hits.Gravity Bongs:
A gravity bong is a type of homemade water pipe that uses the force of gravity to pull the smoke through the water and into the lungs. They can be made from various materials such as plastic bottles or buckets. The advantages of using a gravity bong include the fact that they can produce large hits and that they are easy to make at home.Hookahs:
A hookah is a type of water pipe that originated in the Middle East and is used to smoke flavored tobacco, also known as shisha. Hookahs use a bowl to hold the tobacco and a stem that leads to a chamber filled with water. The smoke is then pulled through the water and into the lungs. The advantages of using a hookah include the ability to smoke with friends and the fact that it can be used to smoke flavored tobacco.
Materials of Bongs and Water Pipes
The material a bong or water pipe is constructed with greatly affects the smoking performance, the overall longevity, and the price point of any smoking piece. Below are common materials used to make bongs and their advantages.
Glass
Glass bongs are one of the most popular types of bongs due to their durability and the fact that they do not affect the taste of the smoke. They come in a variety of designs and can be decorated with various colors and patterns. The advantages of using a glass bong include their durability and the ability to see the smoke as it travels through the bong. Additionally, glass bongs are also very easy to clean and maintain.
Acrylic
Acrylic bongs are a more affordable option compared to glass bongs. They are made from a type of plastic that is durable and lightweight. These bongs come in a variety of colors and designs, and are also easy to clean and maintain. The advantages of using an acrylic bong include their affordability, durability, and portability.
Ceramic
Ceramic bongs are made from clay and are then glazed to make them watertight. These bongs are often handcrafted and can be very unique and decorative. The advantages of using a ceramic bong include the fact that they are durable and do not affect the taste of the smoke. Additionally, ceramic bongs are also easy to clean and maintain.
Metal
Metal bongs are made from various metals such as stainless steel or copper. They are typically more durable than glass or acrylic bongs and are also more heat resistant. The advantages of using a metal bong include their durability, heat resistance, and the fact that they are easy to clean and maintain.
Bamboo
Bamboo bongs are made from bamboo and can be handcrafted. These bongs are lightweight and eco-friendly, and can be very unique and decorative. The advantages of using a bamboo bong include their eco-friendliness, lightweight, and the fact that they do not affect the taste of the smoke. Additionally, bamboo bongs are also easy to clean and maintain.
Styles of Bongs
Straight-Tube Bongs:
A straight-tube bong is a simple and classic design that is shaped like a tube. These bongs have a straight tube with a bowl on top, and a downstem that connects the bowl to the base of the bong. The advantages of using a straight-tube bong include its simplicity, easy to clean, and it’s easy to use.Beaker Bongs:
A beaker bong is a type of bong that is shaped like a beaker. These bongs have a wide base that tapers into a narrow neck. The advantages of using a beaker bong include the fact that they have a larger water chamber, which results in a smoother hit and are also easy to clean.Smoking Lamps:
A smoking lamp is a type of water pipe that offers a smoother, stronger, and easier smoking experience. It was designed by our founder Josiah Lamp, who wanted to create a bong that was superior to the ones on the market. In this article, we will discuss what sets a smoking lamp apart from a traditional bong and why you should consider making the switch.A smoking lamp is distinguished by its large globe, which holds more water for smoke filtration. This results in a smoother hit that is less harsh on the throat. The large globe also makes the lamp easier to clean, as there are no small crevices for resin and other debris to get stuck in. In addition to its large globe, the smoking lamp also has a thick glass base that makes it stronger and more durable than traditional bongs.
Recycler Bongs:
Recycler bongs are a type of bong that have a chamber that recycles the smoke and water multiple times before it is inhaled. This design results in a smoother hit. The advantages of using a recycler bong include the fact that it filters the smoke multiple times, resulting in a smoother hit and are also easy to clean.
Bong Accessories and Modifications
Bongs and water pipes can be made even better with the use of accessories and modifications that can enhance the smoking experience by improving filtration, reducing drag, and even adding a touch of personal style. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular bong accessories and modifications available, including ice holders, percolators, diffusers, ash catchers, bowls, screens, and more.
Percolators:
Percolators are a popular modification that can be added to a bong. They are small glass pieces that are placed inside the bong, and they help to filter the smoke by breaking it up into smaller bubbles. The advantages of using a percolator include the fact that it filters the smoke more effectively, resulting in a cooler and smoother hit.
Ash Catchers:
Ash catchers are a popular accessory that can be added to a bong. They are small glass pieces that are placed inside the bong, and they catch any ash or debris that may fall into the bong. The advantages of using an ash catcher include the fact that it keeps the bong cleaner and it also helps to cool down the smoke before it reaches the mouthpiece.
Banger Rigs:
Banger Rigs are a type of attachment that can be added to a bong. They are typically used for dabbing and have a nail, dome and a quartz banger. The advantages of using a bong rig include the fact that it allows you to enjoy concentrates, and it also provides a cleaner and smoother hit.
Bowls:
Bowls are a popular accessory that can be added to a bong. They are used to hold the dry herbs, and they come in different sizes and materials. The advantages of using a bowl include the fact that it allows you to switch between different herbs, and it also provides a cleaner and smoother hit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bongs and water pipes come in a variety of types, materials, and styles. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Whether you choose a straight-tube bong, a beaker bong, a smoking lamp, a round-base bong, a percolator bong, or a recycler bong, be sure to consider the material it is made from, as well as the size and design. It is also important to consider the various modifications and accessories that are available to enhance your smoking experience.
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