Tips for Choosing the Best Bong

Introduction

A bong is a filtration device used for smoking various herbal extracts, including cannabis and tobacco. Bongs are somewhat similar to a hookah, except bongs are smaller and meant for a single smoker.

Bongs are a tried and tested method for consuming cannabis and very popular with regular cannabis smokers. Because the smoke passes through water it is cooled down and filtered some which means a less harsh it.

Looking for a bong? Don’t know where to start? This article is for you if you’ve recently joined the cannabis community or are struggling to choose the right bong.

Here are five tips to implement when choosing a suitable bong for toking…

1. Choose a suitable material

Like most devices, bongs started as simple devices that acted as convenient replacements for traditional tobacco delivery systems. Over the years, however, bongs have undergone a tremendous revolution. Today, there are numerous best-selling bongs classified based on various parameters, including size and material.

The following are some of the common types of bongs based on material:

i. Glass bongs

Glass is the most popular material used in making bongs. Many smokers prefer the material primarily for its low heat conductivity. Glass is also relatively easier to clean and maintain. And the fact that glass is transparent makes it easier to track the contents of your bong.

ii. Silicone bongs

While glass bongs are more affordable and easier to maintain, silicone bongs are remarkably durable. Silicone is also renowned for its incredible aesthetic appeal. Not to mention, the material is dishwasher safe. However, always go for medical-grade silicone as these guarantee maximum durability.

iii. Perc bongs

Also known as percolator bongs, perc bongs are characterized by their incredible hydrodynamics. These bongs can add extra diffusion to your smoking experience. But even as you go for perc bongs, be sure to modulate the amount of perc the device produces. Note that too many percent can create resistance, which delivers a harsher throat hit.

iv. Ice bongs

As the name suggests, ice bongs are designed to hold ice cubes. The ice cubes take your smoking experience to a whole new level by adding a refreshing touch to every puff you take. There are more advanced alternatives to ice bongs known as ‘glycerin bongs,’ which you can readily keep in your freezer.

2. Understand the Importance of bongs

With increasing cannabis legalization comes a corresponding rise in the number and variety of smoke accessories. But even before choosing a suitable bong, you should begin easy by understanding the significance of this device.

Simply put, a bong lets you smoke your favorite herbal extracts. But doesn’t your standard smoke device achieve the same purpose? It does, but here’s what make a bong unique.

Bongs let you consume herbal extracts in their raw form and due to the filtering effect through water, the smoke that hits your lungs isn’t as harsh as it would be from a pipe or joint.

Therefore, these devices are essential if you wish to derive maximum benefit from your favorite herbs without experiencing a sore throat often induced by traditional smoking.

3. Choose the right size

When it comes to bongs, size does matter. But contrary to what you may think, more giant bongs don’t necessarily guarantee a better smoking experience. While it’s true that larger bongs deliver heavier hits, they may not be so ideal for new smokers. Plus, size reflects negatively on portability.

So, if you’re just starting, the conventional wisdom is to go with smaller bongs. Also known as ‘flavor savers,’ smaller bongs are famous for their ability to maintain the flavor profile. Smaller bongs are also reasonably portable, making them ideal for on-the-go smokers.

Still, choosing the right bong size, another best practice is to consider the joints’ size. Many bongs come in joint sizes ranging from 14 mm to 18 mm. Regardless of the specific size you go for, always insist on buying bongs with similar joint sizes. That will allow you to use one joint for multiple bongs if you break the slide or down stem.

4. Go for the right thickness

How thick a bong is should depend on the material used. While silicone doesn’t need to be very thick, glass and even ceramic bongs should be thick enough, considering that these materials are relatively brittle.

Generally, the thicker the glass, the more durable it is. Quality of the glass also matters. Quality glass bongs are often easier to clean and hold up better overtime.

However, a bong’s thickness shouldn’t weigh negatively on its portability. You want a device that’s thick enough to withstand occasional falls but also light enough to carry for outdoor use.

If you’re struggling to choose a glass bong based on its thickness, you can start with bongs that are 5 mm to 7 mm thick.

5. Buy from reputable dealers.

Finding a reputable bong dealer is not a walk in the park. And it’s even harder if you’re a new smoker. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to locate a great bong supplier. For starters, go with companies that have been in the industry long enough. Although not always the case, a more extended industry presence translates to higher credibility.

Also, choose a bong supplier who enjoys reviews from many of their past customers. And it should go without saying that the reviews should be legit, not sponsored or influenced by the retailer. Lastly, choose a bong supplier who offers a wide range of devices and accessories. You’ll need to experiment with numerous types of bongs before you can find what truly serves your toking needs.

The Takeaway

Taking your time to choose the right bong will pay off in spades. You simply can’t beat an amazing toke session with your friends using a badass bong and some killer herbs. We hope the tips in this guide kick you off in the right direction.

That said, remember to smoke in moderation, even when using a bong. Despite being a safer alternative to other forms of smoking, smoking anything in general comes with inherent risks. After all, you are still breathing combusted materials into your lungs.

With a bong, you also generally take in some pretty significant hits compared to a pipe and joint, with a bigger bong obviously increasing the smoke you inhale considerably. So this can sort of cancel out the benefits of the cooled down and somewhat filtered smoke.

However, a bong is still a fan favorite among many of stoners. But if you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy your bong sessions, perhaps consider a vape attachment for your bong (if available), purchase a vaping compatible bong, or simply switch to vaping altogether.

Do you still enjoy a nice bong session? Do you have any bong tips for our readers? Let us know in the comments below…