Bongs
Bongs hit the stoner culture of the 1960s and 70s, but their roots date back to ancient times.
The ancient water pipes were once made of clay, wood, and even pure gold.
Why Are Bongs Still So Popular?
You may wonder, in the age when you can walk into a dispensary for a pack of pre-rolls or a disposable vape, what the appeal of the water-filled pipe is. Bongs are still popular for several reasons:
1) They're classic. Bongs have been around for centuries, and they're not going anywhere.
2) They offer a smooth hit. The water in the bong filters out some of the smoke's harshness, making for a smoother hit.
3) They hit YOU harder. The water also cools the smoke, making for a vast and more potent hit.
4) They're customizable. Bongs come in all shapes and sizes, and you can find one to fit your specific smoking needs.
But most of all, they're a great way to enjoy marijuana with friends.
Factors to consider when purchasing a bong online:
When you're ready to buy a bong, there are a few factors you should consider:
Size
Bongs come in all shapes and sizes. You can find mini bongs that are perfect for on-the-go smoking or giant bongs that will give you an enormous hit. Most vary from 5 inches to 14 inches. When choosing a shape and size, consider how much room you have for storage. Larger, more elaborate styles may require more care and cleaning but offer a more intense smoking experience.
Material
Bongs can be made from a wide assortment of materials. Cheefkit carries premium bongs made with safe and durable borosilicate glass and other quality materials, such as silicone, which is ideal for those looking for a shatter-resistant bong. Consider your budget and what material will fit your needs before making your final selection.
Flower, Concentrate, or Both?
Bongs can be used for smoking flower or concentrates. If you're planning to use your bong for both, look for a style that includes a detachable bowl or nail so you can easily switch between the two. Never put hot concentrates directly onto a cold bong, as this can crack the material. If you use your bong primarily for flower, look for a style with a wide bowl to pack more at once.
Additional Perks
Some bongs come with extra features that can enhance your smoking experience. For example, Percolators help cool and filter the smoke for a smoother hit. If you're looking for a bong that offers more than just the basics, Cheefkit has a wide selection of bongs with percolators and other features.
Cleaning
A factor many forget to consider when purchasing a bong is how easy it will be to clean. Bongs with more intricate designs may be difficult to clean and require special tools and solutions. Opt for a more straightforward design if you're not looking to put in the extra effort. Cheefkit offers easy-to-clean bongs made with high-quality materials that won't absorb odour. Check out our guide on How to Clean a Bong for more tips.
Anatomy of a Bong
The basic bong includes four key components: the bowl, the downstem, the base, and the tube.
- Bowl: This is where you'll place your flower or concentrate. It attaches to the downstem.
- Downstem: The downstem is a small tube that connects the bowl to the base and helps draw the smoke from the bowl into the bong
- Base: The base is where the water is held. Depending on the bong style, it can be round, square, or another shape.
- Tube: The tube is the long, hollow neck of the bong. It can be straight or curved; some styles include a bent neck for easy smoking
How to Use a Bong
Now that you've chosen the perfect bong, it's time to learn how to use it. Here are the basic steps:
1. Fill the bong with water
You'll want to use enough water to cover the downstem. Be careful not to use too much, as this will make it challenging to take a hit.
2. Place your flower in the bowl
If you're using a bong with a removable bowl, ensure the bowl is securely in place.
3. Light the flower and take a hit
Slowly inhale as you light the bowl to draw the smoke into the bong.
4. Remove the bowl and inhale the smoke
As you reach the end of your hit, remove the bowl to allow the remaining smoke to be drawn into the bong.
5. Repeat
Depending on how much you pack, you may take several hits before having to refill the bowl.
The Different Bong Types
Not all bongs are created equal. There are many styles, each with its own unique features. The type of bong you choose will depend on your smoking preferences and what you're looking for in a bong.
Beaker Bong
Beaker bongs are some of the most popular styles in the market. They include a broad base that tapers up to a narrower neck. The slanted design of beaker bongs makes them less likely to tip over than other styles, making them ideal for those who are accident-prone.
Shop Beaker BongsPercolator Bong
Percolator bongs feature one or more percolators, small discs with holes that help filter and cool the smoke. Percolator bongs offer a smooth hit and are great for those who want to enjoy their flower or concentrate without harshness.
Shop Percolator BongsWater Pipe
A water pipe can have several names—bubbler, bong, or bubbler bong—but they all refer to the same type of smoking device. Water pipes are like percolator bongs but don't always include a percolator. Water pipes are small but pack a big punch, making them a brilliant choice for those who want to enjoy a quick hit.
Shop Water Pipes BelowStraight Tube Bong
As the name suggests, straight tube bongs are straight from the base to the neck with no bends or curves. Straight tube bongs are simple but effective and offer a smooth hit. They're also easy to clean, making them a popular choice among smokers.
Shop Straight Tube BongsCommon Questions and Answers about Bongs
How often should I change the water in my bong?
It's generally recommended that you change the water after each use. However, you may change it less often if you smoke regularly, such as daily.
What is an ice pinch?
An ice pinch is a feature on some bongs that allows you to add ice to the neck of the bong. This helps further to cool the smoke for an even smoother hit.
What is an ash catcher?
An ash catcher is a small attachment that catches the ash and debris from your bowl before it enters the bong. This helps to keep your bong clean and extends its lifespan
Shop Ash CatchersWhy are glass bongs so popular?
Glass bongs are popular because they offer a pure smoking experience. Glass doesn't affect the taste of your flower or concentrate, making it the ideal material for those who want to enjoy the true flavor of their smoke.
What is the difference between borosilicate glass and regular glass?
Borosilicate glass is a type of glass that is known for its strength and durability. It's often used in laboratories and kitchenware because it can withstand high temperatures and is less likely to shatter than regular glass.
Why add ice to your bong?
If you want to enjoy an ultra-smooth hit, adding ice to your bong is the way to go. Ice helps to cool the smoke further, making for a refreshing and smooth hit.