Introduction
When it comes to smoking, many people prefer to use a bong for a smoother, more enjoyable experience. However, with so many different bong materials and designs available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
In this article, we'll break down the four main types of bongs - acrylic, silicone, ceramic, and glass - and explore their pros and cons.
Bong Materials Available
Acrylic Bongs
Acrylic bongs are a popular choice for beginners and budget-conscious smokers. They're made from a type of plastic that's lightweight and durable, making them easy to carry around and less likely to break than glass bongs. Acrylic bongs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can easily find one that matches your style.
One of the main advantages of acrylic bongs is their affordability. They're typically much cheaper than other types of bongs, making them a great option for anyone on a tight budget.
However, there are some downsides to acrylic bongs as well. One of the biggest drawbacks is that they can develop a strange taste over time, which can affect the flavor of your smoke. Additionally, acrylic bongs can warp or crack if exposed to high heat, so it's important to be careful when using them.
Silicone Bongs
Silicone bongs are a relatively new type of bong that have become increasingly popular in recent years. They're made from a soft, pliable material that's virtually unbreakable, making them a great choice for anyone who's always on the go. Silicone bongs are also very lightweight and easy to carry around, and they come in a wide range of colors and designs.
One of the biggest advantages of silicone bongs is their flexibility. Because they're made from a soft material, they can be bent and twisted without breaking, which makes them ideal for traveling or taking with you on the go.
However, there are some downsides to silicone bongs as well. One of the main issues is that they don't allow for many fancy features like percolators or ice catchers, which can limit your smoking experience. Additionally, they can be difficult to fully clean, which can lead to a buildup of resin and other debris over time.
Ceramic Bongs
Ceramic bongs are another popular option for smokers who are looking for something unique and stylish. They come in a wide range of designs and colors, and many ceramic bongs are handmade, which makes them even more special. Ceramic bongs also offer a better smoking experience than acrylic and silicone bongs, as they're able to retain more heat and deliver a smoother hit.
One of the main advantages of ceramic bongs is their aesthetic appeal. Because they come in so many different designs and colors, you can easily find one that matches your personal style.
However, there are some downsides to ceramic bongs as well. One of the biggest issues is that they can be heavy and bulky, which can make them difficult to carry around or store. Additionally, because you can't see through ceramic bongs, it can be harder to tell when they're fully clean, which can be a concern for some users.
Glass Bongs
Glass bongs are a classic choice for those who want the best smoking experience. They offer the purest flavor and smoothest smoke, making them a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts. The glass material is non-toxic and doesn't react with heat, so it won't alter the flavor of your cannabis. Also, glass bongs are available in various designs, shapes, and sizes, giving you plenty of options to choose from.
However, the downside of glass bongs is that they are usually the most expensive option. If you opt for a cheaper glass bong, the glass tends to be very fragile and may not last long. Therefore, it's essential to invest in a high-quality glass bong that's durable and sturdy.
Now, when investing in an expensive piece like this, there are really two types of glass bongs you need to consider; manufactured glass bongs and hand-blown glass bongs.
Manufactured Glass Bongs
If you stop in any smoke shop you pass on the highway, there is a very good chance that most of the bongs in that shop are, what we call, manufactured glass. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with buying manufactured glass, the manufacturing process these pieces go through tends to produce more fragile, cheaper products. This is due to the large volume of bongs being produced limiting their quality control and leading to “lemons”, or faulty bongs, to slip through to consumers. Other aspects of the bong quality, such as the glass thickness and the accuracy of the joint (remember that bong that every bowl fits loose rather than snug?), fall victim to the lack of attention to detail. With that being said, if you’re on a tight budget, a manufactured piece is a great option!
Hand-Blown Glass Bongs
At the end of the day, quality always trumps quantity, as long as you have the budget for a quality piece. Where a manufactured piece is rapidly produced and sold in bulk, each hand-blown bong is made, you guessed it, by hand! This leads to a long list of potential benefits:
You are typically getting a 1 of 1 piece of art.
Small imperfections are typically noticed and corrected.
Sizing is perfected, tested, and proven.
You know who created your piece.
Retained value, as it is a piece of art.
While it may seem impossible to guarantee some of these ideas, at the end of the day these artists rely on their reputations, and only put forward the best of their best. Knowing your artist also allows you to reach out if anything breaks, with most artists offering repair services. With manufactured glass, there is a good chance the bong was made in China and once it breaks, your best option is to just buy a new one.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a bong, there are many factors to consider, including the material it's made from. Acrylic bongs are a great option for those on a tight budget or those who need something durable. Silicone bongs are soft, pliable, and great for traveling but can be challenging to clean. Ceramic bongs are a creative option and offer a better smoking experience than acrylic and silicone but can get heavy and have the potential to break easily. Glass bongs offer the best smoking experience and come in various designs, shapes, and sizes, but can be expensive and fragile.
Regardless of which material you choose, it's crucial to handle your bong with care and clean it regularly to ensure it lasts a long time. With the right maintenance, your bong can offer you an enjoyable smoking experience for years to come.
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