Whether you’re searching for your first bong, adding to your impressive collection, or replacing an old piece, choosing the right bong can be overwhelming. To help you find the best cheap bongs that suit your lifestyle, consider the following factors.
What Is a Cheap Bong?
A cheap bong is an affordable water pipe used for smoking cannabis. These bongs are typically made from less expensive materials like plastic, acrylic, or lower-grade glass. Despite being budget-friendly, cheap bongs can still provide a satisfying smoking experience. They are ideal for beginners, casual smokers, or anyone looking for a functional piece without breaking the bank.
The History of Bongs
The bong has a rich history, dating back over 2,400 years. The word “bong” comes from the Thai word “baung,” which refers to a cylindrical bamboo pipe traditionally used for smoking. Ancient bongs made from gold were discovered in Russian kurgans, revealing that the Scythian tribal chiefs used them. Throughout history, bongs have been made from various materials, including bamboo, ceramic, and glass, and have evolved in design and functionality to become the popular smoking devices we know today.
The Evolution of Bongs
The bong has a rich history, dating back over 2,400 years. The word “bong” comes from the Thai word “baung,” which refers to a cylindrical bamboo pipe traditionally used for smoking. Ancient bongs made from gold were discovered in Russian kurgans, revealing that the Scythian tribal chiefs used them. Over centuries, bongs evolved in design and functionality, transitioning from bamboo and ceramic to the modern glass and acrylic versions we use today. This evolution reflects both advancements in materials and changes in consumer preferences for smoother, more efficient smoking experiences.
Which Bong Design and Size Is Right for You?
There are many bong designs available today. Some bongs have a carb hole or carburetor, allowing fresh air to flow in and push the smoke into your lungs more quickly. This results in a smooth, intense hit. Straight tube bongs are the simplest style, while other designs include beaker-shaped and round-shaped bongs. A beaker bong has a cone-shaped bottom, unlike the straight bong’s cylindrical shape.
Round-based bongs feature a spherical chamber with a flat base, offering more stability than straight bongs but less than beaker bongs. Some bong designs have multiple chambers. Known as recycler bongs, these multi-chamber bongs are complex and usually more expensive.
When choosing the right size, consider your needs. If you’re a novice, a taller bong might deliver too strong a hit. Experienced smokers might prefer taller bongs for the ultimate hit, offering maximum smoke and enhanced cooling and filtration. Smaller bongs are ideal for budget-conscious smokers and are compact and portable, perfect for travel.
What Kind of Filtration Are You Looking For?
Filtration devices, like glycerin coils and percolators, enhance your smoking experience. Glycerin coils, also known as condenser coils, are freezable glass pieces that cool down smoke without the mess of melting ice.
Percolators are essential for cooling smoke and providing a smoother hit. There are various types, including downstems, tree percs, and showerhead percs. Some bongs feature multiple percolators to maximize filtration. While percolators increase smoothness, they also increase drag, requiring a stronger inhalation to clear the bong. If you have sensitive lungs, opt for bongs with a single percolator.
How Much Can the Bong Bowl Hold?
A bong bowl is where you pack your weed for smoking, making it a crucial component alongside the water chamber, stem, and mouthpiece. Bowls come in various sizes, typically ranging from 9 to 19 millimeters. Understanding how a bowl fits with the water pipe helps determine how effectively your bong can be used for your weed sessions.
Are You Willing to Apply the Necessary Care for the Product?
Maintaining your bong is essential to keep it clean and functional. Regular cleaning prevents tar and resin buildup, which can affect the flavor. Larger bongs with multiple percolators offer better filtration but are harder to clean. If you have a busy schedule, a smaller bong is easier to maintain. Devices like ash catchers can trap debris, provide extra filtration, and simplify the cleaning process. Even for larger bongs, ash catchers significantly reduce cleaning time.
How Much Will the Bong Cost?
When shopping for the best cheap bongs, remember that more intricate and colorful designs usually cost more. If you’re an experienced smoker, you likely know your price range and preferred type of bong. For first-time buyers, note that materials like plastic or ceramic are cheaper than glass. However, the simple elegance of a durable glass piece can be a smart investment, offering the potential for future upgrades. Various glass adapters can enhance your bong as you refine your preferences.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Cheap Bongs
Benefits:
- Affordability: Cheap bongs are budget-friendly and accessible to a wide range of users.
- Variety: Available in many styles and designs, allowing for personalization.
- Durability: Plastic and acrylic bongs are less prone to breaking compared to glass.
- Portability: Smaller and lighter, making them easier to transport.
Drawbacks:
- Quality: Often made from lower-grade materials, which can affect the smoking experience.
- Taste: Non-glass bongs may alter the flavor of the smoke.
- Durability: Cheaper glass bongs are more prone to breakage.
- Aesthetic: Typically less visually appealing compared to high-end glass bongs.
10″ Four Arm Percolator Glass Bong Water Pipe
7″ Blue 4-Arm Percolator Water Pipe Bong/ Dab Rig
8 Inches Accent Blue Beaker Water Pipe Bong
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Cheap Bong
1. Material of the Bong
The material of your bong significantly impacts your smoking experience. Common materials include:
- Glass: Offers the cleanest taste and is easy to clean. Although more fragile and often pricier, glass bongs are popular for their purity and aesthetic appeal.
- Plastic and Acrylic: These materials are durable and affordable, making them ideal for beginners or those seeking portability. However, they may affect the taste of the smoke.
- Ceramic: Known for their unique designs and durability, ceramic bongs can be a middle ground between glass and plastic in terms of taste and price.
- Bamboo: Traditional and stylish, bamboo bongs provide a unique smoking experience but require more maintenance to keep clean.
2. Bong Design and Size
There are various bong designs to choose from:
- Straight Tube Bongs: Simple and effective, providing direct hits.
- Beaker Bongs: Feature a cone-shaped bottom for more stability and larger water capacity.
- Round Base Bongs: Offer a spherical chamber and flat base for better stability compared to straight tubes.
- Recycler Bongs: Multi-chambered designs that filter smoke through multiple water chambers, offering a smoother hit but are more complex and expensive.
Size also matters:
- Small Bongs (8-12 inches): Ideal for portability and beginners, providing manageable hits.
- Medium Bongs (12-16 inches): Balance between portability and functionality, suitable for regular use.
- Large Bongs (16+ inches): Best for experienced users seeking powerful hits and advanced filtration.
3. Filtration Systems
Filtration enhances your smoking experience by cooling the smoke and removing impurities. Consider these options:
- Percolators: Various types, such as tree percs, showerhead percs, and honeycomb percs, help cool the smoke and provide a smoother hit.
- Glycerin Coils: Freezable glass pieces that cool the smoke without the mess of melting ice.
- Ash Catchers: Attachments that catch debris, making your bong easier to clean and adding an extra layer of filtration.
4. Bong Bowl Capacity
The bowl size affects how much cannabis you can smoke in one session. Bowls typically range from 9 to 19 millimeters. Choose a size that matches your smoking habits:
- Smaller Bowls: Great for personal use and conserving weed.
- Larger Bowls: Ideal for group sessions or heavier smokers.
5. Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your bong in good condition. Consider these points:
- Ease of Cleaning: Simple designs are easier to clean. Look for bongs with removable parts.
- Maintenance Tools: Ash catchers, cleaning brushes, and bong cleaning solutions can simplify the cleaning process.
- Material: Glass bongs are easier to clean compared to plastic and ceramic.
6. Cost Considerations
When shopping for the best cheap bongs, remember that intricate designs and premium materials come at a higher price. For first-time buyers, simpler and less expensive materials like plastic or ceramic are good options. As you gain experience, you might want to invest in a high-quality glass bong with more features and better filtration.
Conclusion
By considering these factors, you can find the best cheap bong that perfectly fits your needs and lifestyle. Cheap bongs offer an affordable entry point into the world of cannabis smoking, providing you with the opportunity to enjoy a great smoking experience without a hefty investment. Happy smoking!