Skip to content
The First-Timer’s Guide to Bongs

The First-Timer’s Guide to Bongs

Let’s be real! Every smoker needs a bong – but if it’s your first time, buying a bong may look intimidating and confusing. There is a variety of bongs in stores ranging from color to design, and percolators to glass thickness. While all the bongs seem similar, their slight differences can change your experience. We are here to give you a beginner’s guide to bong! Trust us – bongs won't be daunting after you read this.

Let’s start with the basics.

What is a bong?

A bong is a smoking device for smoking dry herbs – they are also referred to as ‘water bongs.’ The device acts as a filter for smoke produced when the weed is heated. The smoke passes through a chamber filled with water or ice. It cools the vapor and ensures a soothing smoking experience, which is lung friendly. Bongs give you a high quicker than a joint!

A Short History

The origin of bongs is a debated topic among historians. The commonly accepted narrative is that the first bong originated in Thailand. This belief isn’t contested because the word bong comes from the Thai word ‘baung,’ which means a bamboo smoking device.

Parts Of A Bong

The structure of a bong is simple. It has a bowl that contains the herb, a base that holds water and a down-stem which connects the two parts. The mouthpiece is used for inhalation. The water in the bong helps eliminate impurities and ensures a cleaner, good tasting puff.

What Are Bongs Made of?

Bongs are made from a wide range of materials – acrylic to plastic, and bamboo to silicone. Because acrylic and plastic bongs are transparent, you can see the water quality in your bong and change it accordingly. However, they lack the versatility and style of a glass bong. Glass bongs are considered an aesthetic option, but plastic and acrylic bongs are good if you’re on the go.

Does Size Matter?

Give a thought about how you’re going to use the bong – is it for personal use or to take out for activities? Your usage dictates the size of the bong you buy. Larger bongs are expensive, but they come with room for modification (adding chambers, etc.) and a fancy look. Smaller bongs, however, are more portable and preferred if you’re on the go. 

Bong Styles

There is an expansive range of bongs available in the market. Below is a list of the most commonly used ones.

  • Tube-style: This bong looks like a big glass tube. One side is sealed, and the bowl sticks out of the side of the glass tube.
  • Beaker style: This resembles a beaker from a chemistry class. Essentially, these bongs are similar to tube style, but their base is wider.
  • Round-base: Performing a similar function like the other two, these bongs have a round base flat from the bottom to make it able to stand.

The most valuable benefit of bongs is their versatility and their ability to be customized. The standard sizes are 14 mm and 18 mm. As long as you find different pieces of the same seizes, you can build your bong and work your creative magic with whatever specifications you like.

Invest in a bong now! It will work a long way. Check out Bong Outlet for all your cannabis smoking needs. We have a wide range of products ranging from high-quality bongs to vapes to smoking accessories – You name it, we have it. Please browse our products here.
Previous article Exploring Cannabis Accessories and Culture During March Break in North America
Next article Must-Have Cannabis Accessories With Springtime Outdoor Activities