What is The Best Type of Bong?

Hitting the bong is just one of the many, many ways you can get high, and for many people, it is considered the best way to ingest weed. Compared to joints, it requires minimal activity. All you need to do is fill the bong with water, pack a bowl, and light it. It’s more traditional than using a vaporizer, which not everyone has. Anyone who enjoys consuming cannabis will (or should) have a bong at the ready, but if you don’t, it’s time to invest. What is the best type of bong, though? Well, there are a few things you need to consider to find the perfect style for your needs. 

Bong Size

Like people, bongs come in many shapes and sizes, which is what makes them such a [popular smoking accessory. The variety of options means there is a bong for everybody and every occasion. 

There are three primary bong sizes that you will come across. These are: 

• Mini bongs – usually around 7” tall
• Medium bongs – anywhere between 8” and 12”
• Large bongs – 13” and above

Each size has the perfect environment. A mini bong is ideal for personal use, especially if you’re a beginner. It also makes for a useful “top-up” bong even if you’re experienced but don’t want a full hit. 

Medium bongs are ideal for everyday use, especially after dinner when you want to relax, whereas the larger bong is great for heavy users or sharing. They also provide a smoother hit because of the optimized airflow that you can’t achieve with smaller bongs, especially as you’re often crouched over. However, because of their size, you’ll find it difficult (or rather impossible) to transport. You’ll likely have no plans to transport a large bong though, and the other qualities arguably make it the best type of bong you can find. 

Bong Material 

Just as there are different size bongs, there are different materials used for making bongs. The two most common are Acrylic and Glass. But you might also encounter:

• Ceramic
• Silicone
• Bamboo

Most users will tell you that glass bongs are the best material as they give you clean and pure hits. Likewise, expert glass bong artists can create a range of chambers that enhance the experience. 

Acrylic bongs are cheap and simple, which makes them perfect for beginners. They are also more durable than glass bongs, which could come in handy. The same goes for ceramic bongs, which are also durable, but they are heavier than acrylic alternatives, while silicone bongs are the easiest to clean and carry, being dishwasher safe and foldable. 

Finally, your bamboo bong is an increasingly popular choice. It is highly durable and the designs can range from the basic to the ambitious, although tar can stick to the inside, making it difficult to clean.

Bong Cost 

There is a wide range of prices that you will come across when looking at bongs. These can range from the exceptionally affordable $15 to as much as $100 or more depending on the size, design, and material. 

The more expensive bongs will be of much better quality and come with additional features or designs (such as coloured glass and patterns). However, beginners rarely need to spend this much on a bong, which is why the cheaper option is always a better place to start. 

The more familiar you become with your bong, the more types and styles you will explore. This means you needn’t replace your first, but rather add to your collection. 

Experienced users already know their tolerance and how often they use a bong, and this can help them determine which type of bong is most suitable for their needs. 

Bong Maintenance 

Like any purchase, looking after your bong will ensure you get the very most from it, minimize nasty, residual aftertaste, and keep it in top condition no matter how often you use it. 

While bong maintenance is generally the same no matter what type, size, or material you choose, it can still vary. For example, glass bongs will require more care, as they are more brittle compared to acrylic bongs. As for bamboo bongs, there’s a more significant chance of residue buildup as it can get caught in the wood fibres, so you will need to be on top of cleaning it regularly. 

The more you care for your bong, the longer it will last, and the more you minimize the risks of gunk and stains that can be tricky (and eventually impossible) to remove. Besides regularly rinsing your bong after using it, you can also invest in pipe cleaners, brushes, and special bong washing detergent that breaks down residue to keep your bong, bowl, and pipe looking as good as new. 

Your Tolerance and Usage 

As much as the biggest and most expensive bong can be tempting (if a little daunting at first), it’s not always the best idea. No matter which type of bong appeals to you the most, you must also think about your current tolerance and usage. If you rarely get high, then a large and pricey bong is arguably not worth it, no matter how much you tell yourself that you will increase your consumption when you buy it. 

Likewise, anyone with a low tolerance should avoid investing in a bong with a big bowl, as this could cause them to go too far on the inhale, which could make them sick. This is the last thing you want, as it will dampen your experience and completely ruin your association with your new bong.

If you live with like-minded friends or want a bong for social occasions (after the pandemic passes, of course), then there’s nothing wrong with buying a larger bong than what you would personally be capable of handling. 

Hits From the Bong

Whether you’re watching a movie, playing video games, listening to music, or are just short on time, hitting a bong to get high is a timeless activity. With cannabis consumption more popular than it has been since its 60s heyday, more and more people are introducing themselves to it each day, which means there are different levels of tolerance and preferences. As everyone is different, there is no catch-all bong type for everyone. It all depends on what you look for and what you can handle.