The Bowl: The dried herb goes into this small basin.
The Carb: The small hole on the side of the pipe, usually near the bowl.
The Process: You cover the carb with your thumb while lighting and inhaling to build up smoke inside the pipe.
You release your thumb to let fresh air rush in, quickly "clearing" the smoke into your lungs.
Best For:
Quick, simple sessions with minimal setup.
Pocket friendly, toss in a bag use.
Micro dosing or taking just a hit or two at a time.
The Bowl: A detachable piece where the dried herb is packed into the small basin.
The Downstem: A tube that carries smoke from the lit bowl down into the water.
The Process: As you inhale, smoke is pulled through the water, creating bubbles.
This "scrubs" the smoke, trapping heavy ash and cooling the temperature significantly.
Instead of a carb hole, most bongs require you to physically lift the bowl out of the downstem to let air in and clear the smoke.
Best For:
People that like to take large hits.
People that prefer water filtration to the harshness of a dry pipe.
The Bowl: The small basin where the dried-herb is packed.
The Internal Stem: A fixed tube inside the device that directs smoke from the bowl down into the water.
The Carb: A small air hole on the side (similar to a dry pipe) used to control the airflow and clear the chamber.
The Process: You cover the carb with your thumb while lighting and inhaling to build up smoke inside the bubbler, lifting the thumb off of the carb to clear the smoke from the chamber while inhaling.
Best For:
People who want some water filtration in a smaller device than a full size bong.
On the go or small space use where you can still access a small amount of water.
The Mouthpiece: A removable tip at the top where you inhale.
The Power Button: A physical button used to turn the device on/off and, in some models, to cycle through heat settings.
The Chamber/Atomizer: A small internal chamber for the dried herb to packed and stored. Atomizers will need to be replaced periodically.
The Digital Display / LED Lights: A screen or set of colored lights that indicates the current temperature, battery life, and when the device is "ready" to use.
The Charging Port: A USB (usually USB-C) or proprietary port used to recharge the internal battery.
The Process: Pack your dried herbs in the chamber and select a low temperature to start. Inhale slowly to test. Increase the temperature until you find your 'sweet spot' of flavor and vapor volume.
Best For:
People who want to reduce smoke and odors while still enjoying dried herbs.
People focused on lung comfort and smoother inhalation.
Do you want a more in-depth breakdown of these products and the best techniques for using them? Check out our complete guide!