New to buying water pipes- here’s what you need to know
Water pipes can look intimidating if it’s your first time using one.
You have a water chamber, neck, downstem, and bowl, each with a vital function.
Even after you have mastered using a bong, you still have to decide on a design.
Do you want a water pipe with a straight tube or one shaped similar to a beaker? Maybe you want a mini water pipe or one large enough to keep several people happily smoking.
We’ll take a look at the various types of bongs so you can find the perfect one for your smoking habits.
Types of Water Pipes
Most smokers are familiar with classic water pipes, also known as straight tubes. You get a nice large hit and the pipe is one of the easiest to clean.
Simply run a wire brush down the straight tube to remove any built-up debris.
Beaker bongs resemble something you find in a science lab. Their appearance is what gives this type of water pipe its name.
The wide chamber and narrow tube produce plenty of smoke, but this type of water pipe is also less stable and easy to knock over.
If you want a cool-looking bong that also produces a great hit, you may want to consider a Zig Zag-style water pipe. The pipe also comes with a handy splash guard that can cut down on any messes.
Percolator/recycler water pipes are pricey but also produce smooth hits.
Choose a Material
Water pipes are made from a variety of materials, each with its pros and cons.
Glass is the most common material and produces a clean hit. Glass is also easily malleable so you can find these bongs in a variety of shapes. Even the color can vary
Silicone is another option. If you are worried about breaking your water pipe, silicone is shatter-resistant. While silicone pipes are easy to clean, inexpensive, and durable, the material can affect the flavor of your hit.
Acrylic is another option and the material shares several characteristics with silicone water pipes. This also includes leaving a weird taste after each hit.
If you don’t mind the weight, you may want to consider a ceramic water pipe. Ceramic and glass are similar, including being able to find ceramic water pipes in a variety of colors and styles.
Just watch out for the weight, some ceramic water pipes are heavy enough that you will need to hold it in both hands.
Tips on Using a Water Pipe
Your first time using a water pipe can be daunting. However, don’t panic! The process is similar to smoking out of a handheld bowl.
You start by adding water to the chamber, stopping when the downstem on the bowl is fully submerged.
Grind your weed and place it in the bowl. Don’t pack the weed down, you want to allow for airflow.
When the bowl is in the downstem, grab your lighter and fire it up.
After lighting the bowl inhale, and remove the bowl from the downstem, then exhale.
Repeat the process and you are smoking out of a water pipe.
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