One of the most classic ways to smoke marijuana is to use a pipe. They’re considered by many to be the best smoking bowls out there. It’s a fantastic way to smoke, because it’s easier than rolling a joint, and you’re smoking out of a fabulous piece of art. Plus, if you don’t feel like smoking an entire joint, you can pace yourself and decide how much you want to smoke at once. That way, your weed doesn’t go stale while it’s waiting for you. There are so many beautiful pipes to choose from, it’s amazing! But how can you choose the best marijuana pipe for your personal needs? Well, the best way is to go shopping! Come on!
Types of Weed Pipes
There are a few basic types of pipes for smoking cannabis buds. Pipes are made from a variety of materials, including glass, wood and metal. Glass is the most popular by far, and is prized for the cleanliness of its hits. If you want to know how to smoke a bowl, we’ve got an article for that right here!
Spoon Pipes
First is the classic spoon pipe. They’re pretty basic, with a bowl, carb, stem, and mouthpiece, and they’re probably the most widely available. You can find these at any headshop. There are many spin-offs of the classic pipe that are not spoon-shaped, such as the Gandalf pipe.
Water Pipes
In my humble opinion, these are some of the best pipes for weed. A water pipe is big and vertical, with a place at the bottom to hold water. Anytime water is involved in smoking, it reduces the heat and excess carbon output from smoking. When you inhale, the air passes through the water, which filters the smoke and gives you a cleaner, smoother hit.
The two basic kinds of water pipes are bongs and rigs. A bong is for smoking pieces of cannabis buds, just as they are. A rig is for concentrates and extracts, also known as dabs. The main difference between a bong and a rig is the joint type. A bong has a female joint with a male-jointed bowl, and a rig has a male joint with a female-jointed nail.
The most common bong shapes are the straight tube and the beaker. The straight tube looks just like the name sounds, and the beaker looks like a lab beaker, with an increased diameter at the bottom. You can generally clear the smoke from straight tubes faster than beakers, even if they’re of similar size. This is because straight tubes have less volume and air resistance.
The most popular rig shapes are inline tubes, recyclers, sidecars, and “nano” mini rigs.The mouthpiece stem on a sidecar is at the side of the base, usually at a 45° angle. It’s convenient to hold in your hand, and it helps prevent the water from splashing into your mouth. Recyclers have a more complex two-chamber system, which gives them excellent filtration.
Bubblers
If a bong and a spoon pipe had a baby, it would be the bubbler. It’s basically a spoon pipe, but with a chamber for water in it. It’s more portable, but still has the water filtration of a bong.
Steamroller Pipes
A steamroller is another lovechild of the bong and pipe, this time with a focus on the chamber style instead of the ability to hold water. It’s typically tube-shaped, and open on both ends, with a bowl on top. They’re known for bigger hits, similar to a bong, but the hits are harsher because there’s no water to cool the smoke.
One-Hitter Pipes
A lot of the oldest styles of pipes are one-hitters, also known as bats. These little sticks are often shaped like a cigarette and have no carb. With just enough room for one hit (about 25mg of weed), they’re very small, which makes them very portable and easy to store. They’re perfect for beginners, and for keeping a low profile. They’re small, discreet, easy to carry, and conserve your stash! They also don’t produce as much odour as most other ways of smoking.
Historic Weed Pipes
Weed pipes have been around for a very, very long time. Let’s take a look at some cool old school pipes!
Chillum
You’ve probably heard this name before. A chillum is a one-hitter that’s straight and shaped like a cone, with a channel that goes from one end to the other. They’ve been around since the 18th century and were originally used by Hindu monks in India. Now, they’re a very popular, very classic one-hitter that is known worldwide.
Kiseru
The kiseru is a Japanese pipe from the 17th century. The mouthpiece and bowl are made of metal, and the rest is bamboo. Some Buddhist textbooks make mention of this pipe.
Midwakh
Traditionally, this Middle Eastern pipe is used to smoke tobacco mixed with herbs. They can be made out of several materials, like bone, wood, metal, or glass. These one-hitters are mostly produced in the United Arab Emirates.
Sebsi
This pipe is from Morocco and is mostly used for smoking cannabis pollen, also known as kief. They’re up to 18in long (about 46cm), with a wooden stem and a narrow clay bowl.
What to Look For
There are a few things you might want to think about when looking for the best pipe for weed. First, consider what it’s made out of. Wood is pretty, but it scorches under fire, so keep that in mind. Metal might be hotter to handle, but a lot of metal pipes are easier to clean because they come apart. A lot of people will tell you that the best weed pipes are made of glass. They have really clean hits and don’t tamper with the flavour of the bud like other materials do. They are, however, a bit harder to keep clean, because they don’t really come apart.
If you’re looking for a glass pipe, you should really consider the quality of the glass. In general, the thicker the glass, the better the pipe, because glass thickness increases durability. There are a couple of specific kinds of glass used to make pipes: soft glass and scientific (borosilicate) glass. The best glass pipe will be made from borosilicate glass. These pipes are made from high-quality glass rods that are heated, stretched, and then formed into pipes that are very strong. These durable pipes are less likely to break or get stress cracks. Borosilicate is so much stronger than soft glass that a borosilicate pipe will probably tolerate a drop better than a soft glass pipe, even if the borosilicate one is thinner. It is, however, more expensive, because of higher production costs and a more complex moulding process.
Think about how big of a bowl you want on your pipe. To some, the best weed bowls are the biggest weed bowls. Others may prefer a one-hitter. Think about how much you plan to smoke, and if you plan to share with others, and pick a bowl size that is appropriate for you.
The most important question is this: do you like the pipe? You can go for a nice, simplistic piece, or one with more intricate, handmade details. The more intricate glass pipes are referred to as “heady” glass. True heady glass will be more expensive than regular pipes because you are actually purchasing a real work of art. Of course, the shape, design, and glass additives of the pipe will all affect the price. Whether you’re going for discreet, beautiful, or whacky, pick a design that you fall in love with. It will make your smoking experience all the more enjoyable.
Accessories
There are many interesting accessories that can make your marijuana pipe unique, and still, others that will enhance your smoking sesh when you use them. Each kind of pipe has its available accessories, and each accessory is worth checking out.
Universal Accessories
These are things you’re going to want no matter what type of pipe you get.
Filter
If you’re using a pipe for dry herbs (not a dab rig) with a bowl, consider getting a filter for it. This will help prevent ashes from falling through the bowl into your pipe. Filters are normally made of metal in a mesh form, but they can also be made of glass. Whatever you do, don’t try to make one at home; you could be using materials that are harmful to your lungs.
Lighter
Buying a lighter is fun because they come in so many cool designs. I probably have around ten lighters just from seeing pretty ones at the gas station. If you want something extra unique, try using a glass wand or a hemp wick! They’re both known for enhancing the cleanliness of your hits, and not tampering with your bud’s flavor as much as a normal lighter. If you’re using a dab rig, you’ll be wanting a torch.
Grinder
You don’t have to grind your weed – in fact, some people prefer not to. It’s all a matter of preference. If you are going the grinding route, then opt for a grinder with a kief catcher. Then, as you grind more and more bud, the pollen will collect in the kief catcher, and you can eventually sprinkle this on top of a packed bowl for some extra oomph!
One-Hitter Accessories
Can’t you just carry a one-hitter around by itself? Of course, you can! But that doesn’t mean you won’t want these cool accessories for it!
Poker
This is a little tool that helps you clean your pipe. You don’t necessarily have to buy one; you can make it yourself out of any long, thin piece of metal you can fit inside your one-hitter for cleaning purposes. You can also use a pipe cleaner. The idea here is to have a way to clean your little pipe, as one-hitters are especially prone to clogging up, which will put a damper on your sesh.
Dugout
A dugout is a box that’s specifically designed to hold a one-hitter, its tools, and a little weed. Most people who own a one-hitter have one of these, because it’s just so convenient. When you want to smoke, all you have to do is pull your box out of your pocket, with everything you need inside and waiting for you.
Water Pipe Accessories
Water pipes are a lot more intricate than normal pipes, and therefore, there are a lot of accessories you can get for one. Some of these are built into the pipe when you buy it; others you add yourself.
Bowl
As mentioned above, the type of bowl you get depends on if you want your water pipe to be a rig or a bong. Some bowls are made to smoke buds, while others (often called nails) are used for concentrates and extracts. A nail will often need a dome to go with it. Just like the pipes they attach to, bowls, nails and domes vary in design from plain to extravagant. Just be sure you’re getting the right one for the job!
Downstem
A downstem is a tube that holds the bowl, slide or nail. Some downstems are fixed (built into the pipe) and some are removable. When a downstem is removable, it makes cleaning easier, and makes your water pipe all the more customizable!
Dabber
A dab tool, also known as a dabber, is something you’ll need to smoke dabs with a rig. It’s a long stick that won’t melt in the heat, and it’s used to pick up a bit of wax and burn it, so you’re not burning your hands or some other object.
Percolators
These are basically additional structures inside the glass that the smoke and water are forced to move through, adding extra filtration. They’re normally fixed, either on the pipe itself or on the downstem. There are several different kinds, including the grid cap, gridline, pillar, shower cap, showerhead, waffle, and so many more! I think the one that looks the coolest is the turbine disc. When you inhale, it looks like there’s a hurricane inside your water pipe!
Splashguard
These fixed parts are there to keep water from splashing up into your mouth. They’re really good for water pipes that have percolators or a water source close to the mouthpiece.
Ice Catcher
Ice catchers are indentions in the pipe that are used to hold ice. Using ice with your water pipe creates a cooler, smoother hit.
Ashcatcher
This exterior add-on sits between the joint and the downstem, ready to catch any ash that falls through your bowl. It also creates extra filtration, so it’s a great accessory no matter what kind of water pipe you’re using.
Where to Buy Weed Pipes
You can always buy a regular weed pipe from your local dispensary or head shop. They’ll probably have some bongs and pipes already on display for your browsing pleasure. However, there is an enormous variety of pipes online to choose from. I just wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t show you where they are. Let me take you on a tour of all the best online pipe stores.
1percent
As one of the original online headshops, 1 percent has been around since 1995. They’ve made some pretty cool friends along the way, and they have some connections that other stores might not. And that means that you’ll find stuff here that you won’t find anywhere else!
Dankstop
I’d be surprised if you haven’t heard this name before. Dankstop is one of the most popular headshops on the internet, and with good reason; their selection is pretty dope.
Grasscity
I love the selection at Grasscity. They sell brands that are just so cool, with very unique designs. They even import some of their pipes from Germany! Check them out!
KravinGlass
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece of art, this site will be your kryptonite. Kravin himself, as well as other artists, make and sell amazing pieces here. You’re bound to fall in love with something.
Smoke Cartel
I would think the name of this place would make it pretty self-evident that these people know what they’re doing. When it comes to finding the best brands of glass, they are one of the go-to stores.
WickiePipes
Ok, so I was thinking that I had enough multi-brand headshops in this article, and then I saw the selection at WickiePipes. It is huge! When I clicked on the brands’ list, it was so long, I started to feel like Alice in Wonderland.
Brands
While I was looking for the best weed pipes for you, I found a bunch of individual brand sites that I just couldn’t pass up. See what you think of these unique pieces!
Digging the one-hitter scene? Then check out the selection here! They’ve got all kinds of one-hitters, from pretty metallic ones to stealthy ones that look just like a cigarette!
That is the perfect name for this little pipe. It is one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen, and it’s super thin and easy to take with you. It even has a built-in waterless filter!
If by best weed pipes, you mean the most affordable weed pipes, then you should check out Gogo. They’ve got quite a selection, and they won’t break your wallet.
This is some very simplistic, no-nonsense, high-quality glasswork. If you’re not into the frills, and you just want a really great, well-functioning piece, this is your brand.
This little round monster has six bowls – count them! As you smoke, you just rotate the top as you clear each bowl, moving on to the next one. It’s also super portable!
I have to admit, if I bought a Pyptek pipe, I would probably feel like Iron Man. Made with metal and glass, these are great, modern-looking pipes that are sure to gain you some admiration.
Not only does SmokeDay have a huge selection, but they pride themselves on super discreet shipping. They’re here to help you fly high, and to protect you from nosy eyes.
I was so stoked when I first saw this awesome little gadget. Are you ready for this? It’s a pipe and a lighter, all in one! And it comes in a nifty little case, with cleaning tools, a pouch, and a screen. It’s so convenient!
Here is another place to get a great deal! Thick Ass Glass is a popular headshop that not only has a clearance section, but they have great sales, too!
How to Clean Weed Pipes
A very important part of smoking weed is cleanliness. You’re going to want to keep your pipes clean and fresh, so that your hits will be clean, too. Here’s how.
For regular pipes, let them soak in a solution of rubbing alcohol and water, then rinse. For water pipes, put the solution and some salt inside the pipe to soak, then cover all the openings and shake, then rinse. If a pipe is a metal, you can take it apart and boil it in water.
Cleaning One-Hitters
To lightly clean a one-hitter, use a straight poker tool or a pipe cleaner to clean the inside of the tube. For more deep cleaning, put the one-hitter in a plastic bag, and pour salt on it. Try to get the salt inside the pipe. Then, pour water in the plastic bag until the pipe is covered, close the bag, and shake it. Let it sit for about 20 minutes, then take the pipe out and rinse it off with water.
If you want a better cleaning solution, dispensaries and headshops sell solutions that are specifically made for cleaning weed pipes. I highly recommend these.
My Favorites
I’m having so much fun with this, I’ve decided to throw in a little bonus. I’m going to give you a rundown of my favourite of each type of pipe that I found while shopping around. Of course, these are just my opinions, so if you want something different, go check out some more pipes! I won’t stop you!
Best Classic Weed Pipe
Grav Labs has made an amazing pipe! It is called the Helix spoon pipe. You use it just like a regular spoon pipe, but the chamber is expanded in such a way that it makes the smoke swirl. This swirling motion not only looks cool, but it will give you a better hit!
Best One Hitter Pipe
The Silver Stick is by far the best one-hitter pipe I have heard of. It’s the size of a cigarette, and you use it just about the same way as one. My favourite part is that it comes with a cotton filter, providing you with a much cleaner hit than that of your average bat.
Best Bubbler Pipe
I found this beautiful silver and gold fume glass sherlock bubbler at Grasscity! It’s beautifully and artistically made, using borosilicate glass, with a flat bottom to set it down easily, and it changes colours as you use it! I’m in love!
Best Steamroller Pipe
This glass steamroller pipe is so awesome! Its design is intricate, with a dragon head inside the chamber. When you inhale, you’ll be taking a shotgun hit from Mr. Dragon every time! How cool is that?
Best Water Pipe
If you’re just going for a regular bong, and no dabs, then my favourite is the Bioluminescent Sea by Empire Glassworks. It’s got stunning sealife artwork inside, and a showerhead percolator for extra filtration. It’s UV reactive, which means it will glow really pretty under a black light!
My favourite dab rig is the Icee Cup by Grav Labs. I used to love getting an Icee at the gas station when I was a kid. This dab rig will not only make me remember those tasty flavours, but I can have some tasty dabs while I think about it!
Best Blunt
I know what you’re thinking: “WHAT? You told me this article was about pipes!” Well, keep your hat on. I just wanted to show you the totally awesome Twisty Glass Blunt! That’s right, it’s a blunt made of glass! It acts like a pipe, but you fill the whole chamber like a blunt. It’s got a twisted, screw-like center that doubles the length that the smoke has to travel, cooling the hit by 30% before it reaches your throat! You’re welcome.
Whew! Well, that was fun! Just look at all those cool pipes and gear there are to choose from! From swirly glass to cool gadgets and works of art… I don’t know about you, but I’m practically drooling! And now, the time has come for you to pick your favorite, buy it, and get your brand new darling – uh, I mean pipe – home! I hope you had at least as much fun reading this article as I did writing it. There’s just something about the world of pipes and rigs that makes me truly happy inside. Now, what are you waiting for? Go shopping!
