To use cannabis, bongs have been a common smoking accessory since ancient times. Using a bong is one of the most common ways to consume cannabis. Water pipes are all that a bong is.
Smokers of cannabis frequently use them to improve their overall enjoyment and to chill the smoke they consume. The sizes, shapes, and materials of bongs are diverse.
There are models made of ceramic, clay, glass, acrylic, bamboo, and wood. They all function in the same manner, regardless of their appearance or what material they are made of.
Any other variant is only limited by the manufacturer’s or craftsman’s creativity.
1. The Bowl
The bowl is the first and most essential part of every bong. It is the place where the dried cannabis buds are being put. It is the central component and is responsible for burning the dried flowers. It serves as the “heart” of the bong and is frequently removed to facilitate better cleaning.
The bowl of a bong can be composed of metal, such as steel or copper, unless the bong is entirely made of glass.
How do you use it? Once you’ve successfully set your bong, you’ll need to crush some cannabis into tiny pieces (use a grinder if you have one). When you are done putting the crushed cannabis into the bowl, you will need to apply some heat to start the process.
2. The Base
The base is another part of the bong that can be found at the bong’s base.
Although it can be seen in many different shapes, it often has a bowl or beaker shape. This is an element that is included in every bong and without which, the process of using cannabis won’t be possible. It serves to hold the water and produce smoke by bubbling it from the water.
The main difference between the two shapes is that the beaker-shaped base has a flat bottom which makes the bong more stable and does not let it topple over or fall. When it comes to the round-shaped bases of bongs, it should be noted that they are more prone to tip over and break if they are not placed correctly. Both of them provide the same results when they are used, so make sure to choose a bong with the base that you like better.
3. The Ash Catcher
Ash catchers serve as filters to the smoke and lessen the amount of tar that gets into the pipe. Some of the greatest, most quality ones are made from glass as you have the opportunity to see exactly what is stored inside. Ash catchers come in different, shapes, sizes, and patterns that can easily be combined with your bong’s style.
4. The Percolator
Some bongs have a filtration system called a percolator that works to chill the smoke before it is inhaled. It should be noted that this is an element that not all bongs have! But it is a huge benefit if you have it. So, while purchasing a bong, make sure to look for one that has a percolator.
The percolator can disperse and break down the smoke and filter it nicely, softening the sensation.
Different configurations of percolators can be found at the bottom or even in other areas of a bong. When you use your bong, the percolator is what creates the recognizable gurgling sound.
5. The Carbon Filter
Last but not least, another important element that bongs consist of is the carbon filter. It is a filtration tool with the main goal to remove all pollutants and tar particles that are bad for the body and lungs. Contrary to many popular beliefs, a bong filter will also permit THC molecules to pass through and enter the lungs.
When using the bong, the carbon filter provides the so-called “clean high”. It should be noted that this is not an essential part and not all bongs have it. But it is beneficial to have it and you can see the effects built up in the filter just by one use. All the dirt that the filter accumulated could have ended up in your lungs.