#drypipe

Have you ever made a pipe or bong out of an apple, beer can, or pop bottle? Hopefully, you’ve moved on from this, but if not - it’s time to level up your smoke! Investing in a quality pipe will make a world of difference. You will get a better high, get more from your stash, and save your throat and lungs from harsh smoke coming from these DIY pipes. You know it’s time to buy one, but which one is better? A water pipe or dry pipe? That’s The Great Pipe Debate.

As you can tell by the name, there are some differences, one is wet, and one is dry. There is more to it, though, and there are pros and cons to each. The type of smoke and high you get can vary depending on the pipe you use.    

If you aren’t sure which one is best for you – keep reading. I’ll tell you the pros and cons of each and make some recommendations that are sure to please.

Option 1: Water Pipe

Water pipes, commonly known as bongs, have been around for centuries – and for a good reason. Water pipes give a smooth and satisfying toke and can come in a variety of sizes and looks. There are different types of water pipes that include bongs, bubblers, and dab rigs.  

How do water pipes work?

Simply put, bongs use water to filter smoke. Water filters up to 90% of particulates from the smoke, making it feel super smooth. Water pipes can be made from silicone, clay, acrylic, or glass, be relatively simple in design or more elaborate and larger in size. The mechanics involved in water pipes, or bongs, are much more intricate than dry pipes. Several elements make up a water pipe:

Downstem: The downstem is a small tube that allows the smoke to travel from to the base, where it percolates through the water. Some water pipes with sliders won’t have a downstem.

Tube: After the smoke has filtered through the water, the tube fills with smoke traveling to the mouthpiece.

Mouthpiece: The mouthpiece is where your lips press where you inhale.

Carburetor: The carburetor is a small hole that clears smoke from the chamber. There are different types of carb’s; pull-carb or slide-carb.

Base: The base is the bottom of the water pipe containing the water. Smoke runs through here to filter particulates and cool the smoke.

Bowl: The bowl is where you put the tobacco or cannabis. The bowl may also function as a pull-carb or slide-carb.

Percolator: A percolator is the filtration device located in the water pipe, usually contained within the base.

Water pipes look more complicated than they are and are actually pretty easy to use. To use a water pipe, you first fill the chamber with water, so the downstem is covered, pack the bowl with cannabis or tobacco, light, and place mouth over the mouthpiece, slowly drawing in air. The chamber will fill with smoke; release or pull the carb as you inhale the smoke.  

What are the pros of a water pipe?

One of the best features of smoking from a water pipe, or bong, is the smooth smoke you get. The water cools and filters the smoke while maintaining aroma and flavor. A toke from a water pipe will be much easier on the throat than a dry pipe. Some believe that when smoking cannabis, a water pipe can get you higher—more bang for your buck, in a sense. A water pipe allows you to take a big inhale, hitting you faster.

What are the cons of a water pipe?

Water pipes are typically more expensive; the more intricate the bong is, the more it will cost. They are also larger and more cumbersome, making it difficult to travel with, especially when made of glass. You can’t discretely pull out a water pipe without being noticed. Lastly, they can be a little more challenging to clean. You shouldn’t continuously reuse dirty water, or you’ll completely remove the filtering benefits and start getting “dirty smoke.” With more pieces, cleaning can take a little longer.

Best water pipe to try:

Glass mini beaker bong 8” – this is a classic smoke piece that is easy to use and clean and will give you the smooth smoke water pipes are known for.

Option 2: Dry Pipe

Another popular choice, dry pipes, have had their place in history and were viewed as a stylish accessory. These pipes can be made from several different materials, including glass, clay, metal, or wood. There are different varieties of dry pipes, including chillums, glass blunt, hand pipes, and one hitters. The most common shape is a thick tube with a bowl at the end.  

How do dry pipes work?

Dry pipes are the easiest to use and great for beginners. All you need to do is pack the bowl with bud, light, and inhale.

What are the pros of a dry pipe?

Some argue that dry pipes will give you better flavour and aroma. The smoke is unfiltered and pure; this is a pro for some but a con for others. Due to their smaller size, a dry pipe is also portable and convenient to take with you, making them discreet and easier to travel. You can toke-on-the-go and don’t have to worry about filling it with water or rolling papers.  Another pro is dry pipes are typically on the cheaper side as there is a lot less to them.

What are the cons of a dry pipe?

As I mentioned earlier, many dry pipes won’t have a filter, so when you smoke, it can cause a harsh burning feeling in your throat. To remedy this, some dry pipes do have added filters to give a smoother toke.  

Best dry pipe to try:

Astronaut Nectar Straw – this is definitely the dopest dry pipe you’ll see out there. It’s got a cool look and easy to use, perfect for anyone looking for a dry pipe.