What Is A Bong?
A bong is a water pipe that is commonly used to smoke tobacco, cannabis, or other herbal substances. It usually comprises of a vertical tube filled with water, a bowl for the substance, and a stem that guides the smoke into the water.
When the substance is ignited, the smoke passes through the water, effectively cooling and refining it before it is inhaled. Bongs are available in a range of shapes, sizes, and materials, and they have gained popularity among enthusiasts due to their capacity to provide a satisfying and strong smoking experience.
How Does A Bong Work?
Bong smoking involves the use of water filtration, where a combination of chambers and tubes work together to cool and purify the smoke. The herb is ignited in the cone piece, and the resulting smoke is then passed through the water in the bong's chamber. This water acts as a filter, eliminating harmful toxins and impurities from the smoke. Additionally, it helps to lower the temperature of the smoke, resulting in a smoother inhalation experience that is gentler on your throat and lungs.
When the smoke is filtered through the water, it creates bubbles that effectively increase the surface area of the smoke. This process reduces the presence of harmful substances while ensuring that more of the beneficial compounds are inhaled. To inhale the smoke, it travels up the neck of the bong and is then drawn through the mouthpiece. By taking slow and steady breaths, you can optimise the amount of smoke you inhale without causing any discomfort to your throat and lungs.
Are Bongs Better Than Joints Or Vapes?
When it comes to smoking, whether it's from a bong, joint, or vape, each method has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages. To make an informed decision, it is important to consider personal preferences. Now, let's delve into the details of each method:
Bongs
Bongs enhance the smoking experience by delivering cooler and purer hits through the filtration of smoke using water and chambers. This filtration system effectively removes harmful toxins and impurities, resulting in a more pleasurable inhaling experience. Moreover, the expanded surface area of the smoke guarantees a greater concentration of beneficial compounds. Nevertheless, it is crucial to bear in mind that bongs or dab rigs necessitate frequent cleaning and can be somewhat cumbersome and fragile.
Joints
Joints, which can be created using rolling papers, blunt wraps, palm leaf wraps, or hemp wraps, offer a convenient and portable option for smoking while on the go. The beauty of joints lies in their simplicity and lack of additional equipment needed.
However, it's essential to note that smoking joints can lead to throat and lung irritation due to the direct inhalation of smoke. Moreover, there is a possibility that joints may contain harmful additives or chemicals, and rolling them can be quite challenging.
Vapes
Vapes offer an alternative to traditional smoking methods. By heating the substance at a precise temperature, vapes generate vapour instead of smoke, reducing the inhalation of harmful chemicals. Moreover, vapes are inconspicuous and release minimal odor in comparison to conventional smoking.
However, vapes can be expensive, require regular maintenance, and may not provide the same level of satisfaction as using a bong or joint for smoking.
How Do I Use A Bong?
Using a bong is a straightforward procedure. Follow these instructions to maximise your bong experience:
1. Fill the Bong with Water
Begin by filling the base of the bong with water until the stem located at the bottom of the bowl is completely submerged. Make sure that the water level is sufficient to cover the bottom of the stem without overflowing.
2. Grind the Cannabis
To achieve a more consistent burn and enhance the overall smoothness of your smoking experience, it is recommended to grind the cannabis into a coarse texture using a grinder. This process ensures that the herb is evenly distributed and prepares it for optimal combustion.
3. Pack the Bowl
After grinding the cannabis, proceed to fill the bowl with the ground cannabis. You can use your fingers or a small tool to gently compact the cannabis, guaranteeing an even and consistent burn.
4. Light the Cannabis
To ensure a firm grip, hold the bong firmly and position the mouthpiece near your lips. Utilize a lighter to ignite the cannabis as you gently inhale. While lighting the cannabis, maintain a slow inhalation to draw the smoke into the chamber of the bong.
5. Inhale and Clear the Chamber
Once the bong chamber is filled with smoke, extinguish the flame and proceed to take a breath. When the chamber is filled with smoke and you are prepared to inhale, raise the bowl from the stem to clear the chamber and draw in the remaining smoke from the bong.
6. Exhale and Enjoy
Take a deep breath, then breathe out and embrace the benefits of cannabis. Allow yourself to relax and appreciate the sensation. Take your time to fully immerse yourself in the experience and savour every moment.
7. Clean and Maintain the Bong
After utilising the bong, it is crucial to conduct a thorough cleaning to uphold its functionality and cleanliness. Empty out the water, rinse the bong with warm water, and employ a pipe cleaner or brush to eliminate any remaining residue.
What Are Bongs Used For?
When contemplating the purchase of a bong or dab rig, it becomes essential to gain a thorough understanding of its intended function. Are you seeking it for medicinal purposes? Is it solely for recreational use within the confines of your home? Or do you necessitate a portable rig for your travels? By pinpointing the specific purpose of the bong, you will be able to streamline the selection process and find the style, shape, and size that best caters to your needs.
Medicinal Use
When buying a bong for medical cannabis, it is recommended to invest in a top-notch, pricier bong crafted from thick scientific borosilicate glass. This guarantees a safer and more hygienic smoking session. Trusted brands such as Bud, Higher Concepts, GRAV, or ROOR offer sturdy glass bongs that ensure prolonged usage and deliver more flavorful and smoother tokes of your medical cannabis. Additionally, these bongs enable improved dosage management, especially for individuals who use medical cannabis on a daily basis.
Recreational Use
For individuals who engage in recreational use, occasional social smoking, or attending parties, a medium-sized glass bong within the price range of $30 to $150 would be a suitable choice. These affordable glass bongs are typically made from high-quality materials and offer a delightful smoking experience that enhances the flavors of your preferred strains. Consider opting for a mid-range glass bong from reputable brands such as Bud or Chongz to ensure an exceptional smoking session, especially when shared with friends.
What Is My Bong Smoking Experience?
When delving into the world of bong smoking and choosing a bong, it is crucial to evaluate your level of smoking experience. The selection of a bong depends on whether you are a beginner or an experienced daily user.
Beginner
Beginners who are uncertain about their preferences and requirements for a bong will discover that opting for a basic bong with a straightforward design is the most cost-effective solution. This enables them to gain experience and familiarity with smoking cannabis using a bong before committing to a more advanced model. The Bud Beaker Bong 25cm is an excellent option for beginners, offering an ideal balance of simplicity and functionality.
Intermediate
If you're an intermediate bong user looking to elevate your smoking session, think about upgrading your bong for a better taste, smoother hits, and improved performance. Upgrading to a bong with added features, such as a percolator and ash catcher, can be a natural next step. These enhancements work by breaking down the smoke into smaller bubbles and preventing ash from entering the bong. The Bud Matrix Percolator Bong comes highly recommended for this purpose.
Advanced
Experienced users of water pipes who wish to elevate their smoking sessions can enhance their experience by opting for a more advanced and refined water pipe. These upgraded models often feature double percolators, ash catchers, ice notches, and other innovative elements that contribute to smoother hits and superior filtration. In addition to the enhanced functionality, these water pipes also serve as a personal expression of style and taste, with unique designs and a plethora of colours to choose from. They not only act as great conversation starters but also instill a sense of pride in their owners. One noteworthy option that stands out is the Bud Jellyfish Percolator Bong.
What Marterials Are Bongs Made From?
When selecting the material for your bong, several factors come into play, such as your intended usage, smoking location, and budget. Each material option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's delve deeper into each one to gain a better understanding.
Glass Bongs
Glass bongs are extremely popular due to their exceptional flavour, durable construction, and the ability to see the smoke clearly. However, glass waterpipes can be fragile and expensive.
Silicone Bongs
Silicone water pipes are known for their durability and versatility, making them ideal for people who are always on the move or enjoy outdoor activities. These bongs require minimal upkeep and come in a variety of vibrant colours, adding a touch of convenience and style to your smoking experience. However, it is important to keep in mind that silicone bongs may not provide the same level of pure taste and clarity as their glass counterparts.
Ceramic Bongs
Ceramic water pipes provide visually appealing aesthetics and unique patterns, all while being durable and requiring minimal upkeep. However, it's worth noting that they can be heavier than their glass counterparts and may not offer the same level of filtration efficiency.
Acrylic Bongs
Acrylic bongs are a cost-effective option that comes in a variety of colours and designs. Their lightweight and sturdy construction makes them a popular choice among users. However, it's important to consider that acrylic bongs may not provide the same level of purity and flavour as glass bongs, and maintaining their cleanliness can be a bit more challenging.
Types Of Bongs
When it comes to various kinds of bongs, personal preferences and priorities are of utmost importance. Smokers have diverse tastes - some desire a more seamless smoking experience, while others prioritize convenience and ease of cleaning. In this article, we will delve into the five most popular types and designs of bongs that are currently available in the market:
Beaker Bongs
Beaker bongs have gained popularity due to their generous base, which offers enhanced stability and a spacious chamber for more substantial inhalations. Nonetheless, these bongs necessitate additional cleaning efforts and may not possess the same aesthetic allure as alternative designs.
Percolator Bongs
Percolator bongs are equipped with distinct compartments and multiple percolators, resulting in an exceptionally seamless smoking encounter. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that they necessitate additional upkeep and can pose a challenge when it comes to cleaning.
Straight Tube Bongs
Straight tube bongs are renowned for their straightforwardness and effectiveness. They offer a direct smoking experience and are effortless to maintain. Nevertheless, it is crucial to bear in mind that they might not provide the same filtration capabilities as percolator bongs, which could lead to a more intense sensation on the throat.
Bubble Bongs
Bubble water pipes offer increased stability thanks to their broader base. Moreover, the larger chamber enables users to take bigger hits, and maintaining them is a breeze. However, it's important to note that their aesthetic appeal may not be on par with other styles available in the market.
Gripper Bongs
Gripper bongs are characterized by their user-friendly pistol-grip design, ensuring effortless use and a comfortable hold. Additionally, these bongs are renowned for their hassle-free cleaning process. However, it is important to acknowledge that they may not offer the same level of filtration quality as percolator bongs.
Are Large Bongs Better Than Small Bongs?
When it comes to bongs, the size of the bong depends on personal preference, its intended use, and your smoking lifestyle. Let's delve deeper into three distinct bong sizes and explore how each one could enhance your next smoking experience.
Small Bongs
Small bongs provide the advantages of being easily carried around and inconspicuous. They are highly portable and can be discreetly concealed, making them ideal for smoking outdoors or in public settings. However, it is worth mentioning that they generate less smoke, which may potentially affect the intensity of the inhalation.
Medium Bongs
Medium-sized bongs offer a great balance between portability and potency. These bongs are capable of producing a generous amount of smoke, resulting in a more intense hit. Despite their smaller size, they are still highly convenient and easy to carry around. Moreover, medium-sized bongs provide a wider selection of percolation options, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the smoking experience.
Large Bongs
Large bongs offer a remarkably seamless smoking encounter due to their generous dimensions and wide range of percolation options. They produce abundant smoke, making them ideal for social smoking sessions. However, they are less portable and require additional storage space.
How Much Do Bongs Cost?
Ensuring you stick to your budget is crucial when selecting a bong. The prices of bongs for sale can range from as low as $30 to as high as $600 or even more. Finding a bong that suits your budget can be challenging, but it's important to consider the pros and cons of each price point. Let's explore the various price ranges and their advantages and disadvantages:
Cheap Bongs
Affordable bongs, usually priced below $50, are often made from inferior materials like plastic or delicate glass. These cheaper options are more prone to breakage and may not provide a satisfying smoking experience. However, for beginners who are unsure about committing to regular smoking, they can still be a viable choice.
Mid-Range Bongs
A bong with a mid-range price typically falls within the range of $50 to $150. These bongs are commonly crafted from superior materials like durable borosilicate glass and are designed by well-known brands. They offer additional features such as percolators and ash catchers, and come in a diverse selection of distinctive shapes, colours, and styles.
Expensive Bongs
Price tags of $150 and above are attached to expensive bongs. Premium bongs, on the other hand, elevate the smoking experience through their impeccable craftsmanship. Constructed using high-quality materials, these bongs exhibit outstanding durability, guaranteeing a long-lasting investment. Notably, these high-end bongs are designed for effortless cleaning and maintenance, reducing the risk of bacterial growth. Furthermore, their advanced features provide a seamless and rejuvenating smoking session.
What Are The Best Bong Brands?
As the demand for bongs continues to rise alongside the increasing popularity of medicinal cannabis, numerous new brands have emerged in the market. Alongside these newcomers, established and reputable brands have also been consistently producing high-quality rigs for many years. Here are some of our recommended bong brands that you should take into consideration:
Bud
Bud is a reputable online brand specializing in bongs, dedicated to meeting your smoking needs by offering reliable and user-friendly smoke solutions for everyday use. With their state-of-the-art Australian-made bongs, impeccable artistry, and stylish designs, they pay meticulous attention to every detail, aiming to impress both marijuana enthusiasts and occasional smokers alike.
Higher Concepts
Higher Concepts is a renowned online brand in the bong industry, highly regarded for their unwavering dedication to excellence. They are proud to provide customers with long-lasting and sophisticated glass bongs that offer exceptional value for money. Their extensive collection of top-notch glass bongs not only meets but surpasses the expectations of both beginner and seasoned smokers. Additionally, they offer a wide selection of bong accessories including cone pieces, stems, ash catchers, and more.
GRAV
Based in Austin, Texas, GRAV is a well-known brand in the field of glassware. Having established themselves in 2004, they have become a dominant force in the industry. GRAV offers an extensive selection of high-quality smoking products, such as the renowned Gravitron gravity bong, the meticulously crafted Sip Series Collection, stylish cone pieces, and functional ash catchers. With their innovative and groundbreaking designs, GRAV has earned a solid reputation for providing unparalleled smoking experiences.
ROOR
ROOR is a renowned smoking brand that has gained immense recognition for its meticulous focus on precision, exceptional craftsmanship, and innovative glassblowing methods. Since its establishment in 1995, this German-based industry pioneer has become synonymous with excellence, making it the preferred choice for both smokers and collectors. Their unparalleled expertise in creating exceptional bongs and introducing groundbreaking advancements is what sets them apart from the competition.
Her Highness
Her Highness is an Australian brand focused on redefining perceptions associated with the use of cannabis and empowering women. Throughout the years, they have launched exclusive collections of bongs and smoking accessories, such as the Her Highness III, which seamlessly blend style and empowerment. Their product range encompasses a diverse selection, featuring branded bongs, grinders, and cone pieces, to cater to the preferences of every woman aiming to elevate her smoking journey.
At Glass Bongs Australia, the leading head shop in the country, each water pipe is accompanied by a cone piece and a downstem. These additional components ensure that the bong is ready for use as soon as it is delivered to your doorstep. As you gain more experience, you might be interested in enhancing your smoking experience by upgrading your bong components and incorporating extras like an ash catcher. Over time, you may consider upgrading or replacing various bong parts.
Cone Pieces
When it comes to smoking from a bong, the choice of cone piece can significantly impact your experience. Selecting a cone piece that is vibrant, versatile, and durable ensures that your smoking sessions will always be of the highest quality. Whether you're looking for a one-of-a-kind, intricately designed cone piece to enhance the visual appeal of your bong, need a replacement for a broken or damaged bowl, or simply want to expand your collection of bong parts, finding the perfect cone piece for you and your bong is always an enjoyable endeavor.
Downstems
When it comes to taking hits from your bong, never settle for anything less than a smooth and perfectly filtered experience. To achieve a consistently velvety and flavourful pull, it is essential to have high-quality downstems as part of your bong setup. Look for a downstem that has diffusor slits at the base, as they are the ideal choice for enhanced filtration and an all-around superior smoking session. The best part is that downstems are available in a variety of vibrant colours, allowing you to easily find the perfect match for your bong and showcase your personal style.
Ash Catchers
Ash catchers are essential components for your bong that you shouldn't overlook. They are available in a wide range of sizes, styles, and colours, allowing you to choose the one that suits your preferences perfectly. These convenient attachments serve multiple purposes; not only do they prevent ash, tar, and resin from contaminating your bong, but they also enhance your smoking experience in remarkable ways. By incorporating an additional chamber and water filtration system, ash catchers effectively cool the smoke and eliminate impurities, resulting in smoother, more substantial, and ultimately more enjoyable hits. Elevate your smoking sessions by upgrading your bong with an ash catcher and unlock a whole new level of satisfaction.
Adapters & Connectors
Elevate and personalize your bong journey effortlessly with adapters and connectors. These adaptable bong components are available in a diverse array of sizes, enabling you to effortlessly transition between various parts such as cone pieces, bangers, nails, and downstems. With their distinctive male-female designs and a size range spanning from 10mm to 18mm, you'll discover the ideal match for all your bong elements.
Bangers & Nails
If you employ your bong for dabbing concentrates, it is crucial to have a sturdy and long-lasting banger and nail. You have the option to select between titanium or quartz. Titanium is known for its exceptional durability, ensuring that it remains intact even under extreme heat. On the contrary, quartz bangers are highly resilient and heat up rapidly and efficiently. Although they may be more expensive than glass alternatives, quartz nails provide a delightful flavour, smooth airflow, and the ability to withstand high temperatures without cracking or warping.
Why Do I Need To Clean My Bong?
Keeping your bong clean is crucial for an improved smoking experience. When residue and smoke accumulate in the bong, it can lead to unpleasant tastes and smells. This buildup can also obstruct the airflow, making it harder to inhale through the device. Consequently, the bong's effectiveness is compromised, resulting in a less enjoyable overall experience. It is strongly advised to clean your bong after each use to prevent the buildup of residue. By regularly maintaining your bong's cleanliness, you can ensure that it stays hygienic and fully operational.
How Do I Clean My Bong?
Cleaning your bong is crucial to ensure a safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable smoking experience. Allow me to provide you with a concise yet comprehensive guide on how to effectively clean your bong:
1. Disassemble Your Bong
To ensure the bong is emptied, carefully disassemble it and promptly pour out the water that was used down the sink.
2. Wear Gloves
To ensure the safety of your skin, it is advisable to wear protective gloves specifically designed for kitchen cleaning purposes.
3. Fill Your Bong With A Bong Cleaner
Fill your bong with a bong cleaner, such as Formula 420. If you don't have a bong cleaner, isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt can do the trick.
4. Cover The Bong's Holes
Cover the mouthpiece and joint opening with cleaning plugs or caps or your hands while wearing kitchen cleaning gloves.
5. Give The Bong A Shake
Give your bong a good shake and force the liquid around the bong into all the nooks and crannies. After a minute or two, pour out the solution.
6. Use A Bong Cleaning Brush
Use a soft tip cleaning brush or pipe cleaner to scrub off any remaning residue and build up. Be gentle and careful not to scratch your glass bong while using a brush.
7. Rinse Your Bong
Once you're happy with the results, rinse your bong under warm water ensuring all solvents and cleaners are gone.
8. Dry Your Bong
Let your bong dry completely before reassembling and using again.
Where Can I Buy A Bong Online?
Purchasing a glass waterpipe from an online head shop like Glass Bongs Australia presents a fantastic option. Their extensive range of bongs for sale, featuring unique styles, shapes, and sizes from renowned brands worldwide, simplifies the search for the perfect bong. With prices starting as low as $39 for Aussie bongs, you can acquire a high-quality rig without straining your budget. If you require assistance in selecting a bong, their customer service team can be reached at hello@glassbongs.com.au. They will expertly navigate you through the purchasing process and offer valuable insights into finding the ultimate water pipe to suit your smoking preferences. Additionally, you can also find other essential accessories such as grinders, rolling trays, bong parts, bong cleaners, and more.
Conclusion
By the conclusion of this comprehensive guide, you will possess all the necessary knowledge to acquire the ultimate bong that aligns perfectly with your personal preferences. Selecting the ideal bong may require some experimentation with various materials, styles, shapes, and brands, but eventually, you will discover the perfect rig tailored to your needs. If you ever find yourself uncertain, simply consult this guide and refresh your understanding of everything related to bongs. Rest assured, it is about time you find your ideal match.
