Any seasoned cannabis consumer will tell you that the way you smoke plays a role in your experience. From bongs and pipes to vaporizers and dab rigs, smoking accessories have evolved. If you’re new to the world of smoking cannabis, you might find yourself feeling a bit overwhelmed with the number of options available. Still curious about which smoking accessory is best for you? Let’s delve into the different types of marijuana smoking accessories providing the pros and cons of each method so you can decide which one is best for you.
- Dab rig
Dabs are relatively a new product in the cannabis industry which is gaining popularity. Dabs can be smoked using an accessory called a dab rig or oil rig. Dab rigs work like bongs and come with an extra tool often called a “nail” where the dab is placed after being heated with a torch lighter.
Advantages
- Dabs are healthier than rolling papers because of a clean hit.
- Dabs are an effective and fast way to use cannabis for medical reasons.
- Dabs reduce the chance of second-hand smoke.
Disadvantages
- Since dabs are very potent, users are more likely to consume excessive amounts of THC. (if that is a concern?)
- Dabbing requires specialized equipment which is expensive.
- Dabs are hard to store since each type of concentrate has different storage methods.
- Cones
Cones are pre-rolled papers that come in a conical form meant for filling with cannabis. Cones are popular among novice smokers who want an easy way to consume cannabis.
Advantages
- The conical pre-rolled design saves time and effort.
- Cones are guaranteed to burn consistently.
- They are available in diverse sizes and materials.
Disadvantages
- Limited customization alternatives for joint size and shape.
- Dependency on pre-rolled cones may limit your chances to roll marijuana on your own.
- Cones may be infused with additives or flavorings which is bad for your health.
- Rolling papers
Rolling papers are tiny sheets used for rolling cannabis into a self-made joint. Using rolling papers offers some control to the smoker when it comes to the amount of cannabis used.
Advantages
- Rolling papers are flexible and easy to customize.
- Users can experiment with different kinds of rolling strategies.
- Rolling papers are less costly in comparison to pre-rolled cones.
- Users can choose from environmentally pleasant options consisting of unbleached and organic papers.
Disadvantages
- Requires a certain level of expertise which may be difficult for beginners.
- Poor rolling abilities may result in uneven burning.
- To roll a joint is time-consuming compared to the use of pre-rolled cones.
- Vapes
Vapes have become popular over recent years, especially among medical cannabis users who want a healthier and more discreet way to consume marijuana. Vapes heat cannabis compounds to extract active substances without the harmful chemicals that are released during combustion.
Advantages
- Vaping causes less coughing and lung irritation in contrast to smoking
- Vapes result in a much more “purer” taste.
- It lacks smoke or a persistent odor
Disadvantages
- Vapes are usually difficult to clean
- Setting up the device may lead to delays during use
- Pipe
Pipes, also known as spoons or bowls, are amongst the easiest ways to smoke. Pipes consist of a hollow bowl, a “stem,” and a mouthpiece through which you inhale.
Advantages
- Pipes are less costly to make and easy to use since they involve only a few pieces in creating this smoking device.
- Users can easily customize their own weed pipes by putting a hole through the side of an empty soda can.
Disadvantages
- Users may have to dispose of their weed pipes after use because most public places don’t allow them indoors.
- A weed pipe can easily break if not handled properly.
- Bong
Bongs, also known as water pipes, are smoking accessories that use water to cool and filter smoke. Bongs consist of a bowl and a cylinder glass piece called a “downstem.” When you use a bong, smoke travels down the downstem and is filtered through water before moving up the bong’s mouthpiece.
Advantages
- Bongs contain water which helps to filter smoke leading to much cleaner smoke
- Bongs generate big hits, which means you feel the effect faster.
- Bongs are also easy to clean.
Disadvantages
- While the water in bongs gives you a smoother smoke, it can filter out THC, leading to a less potent smoke.
- The water in a bong needs to be changed often to avoid bad smells and tastes.
Which is the best smoking accessory for you?
When deciding on the best smoking accessory you must consider factors including.
- Consider your preferences regarding the smoking experience, which can include smoothness, potency, and ease of use.
- If you like to travel, portable smoking accessories like pipes or vaporizers might be more convenient.
- Novice users may discover that it’s easy to use accessories like pre-rolled cones, while seasoned users may find it easy to use rolling papers or dabs.
- Vapes are usually considered as a healthier option due to lower combustion rates, making them suitable for individuals who want to safeguard their respiratory health.
- Pipes and blunts are easy to share and therefore good for social gatherings, while vaporizers can be less communal due to their size.