Percolator bongs, also known as “percs,” are a type of water pipe used for smoking cannabis. They are designed with a percolator, a special feature that helps to filter and cool the smoke as it passes through the bong. This results in a smoother, cooler, and more enjoyable smoking experience.
Types of Percolator Bongs
There are many different types of percolators, each with its own unique design and function. Some of the most common types include:
- Tree percolators: These percs resemble a tree with multiple branches, each ending in a small hole. The smoke passes through the branches and is diffused by the holes, resulting in a smoother hit.
- Honeycomb percolators: These percs have a flat, circular design with many small holes, resembling a honeycomb. The smoke is diffused as it passes through the holes, resulting in a smooth and cool hit.
- Showerhead percolators: These percs have a cylindrical design with slits or holes at the bottom. The smoke passes through the slits and is diffused by the water, resulting in a smooth hit.
- Fritted disc percolators: These percs have a flat, circular design with many small holes or slits. The smoke is diffused as it passes through the holes, resulting in a smooth and cool hit.
- Inline percolators: These percs have a long, narrow design and are usually placed near the base of the bong. The smoke passes through the perc and is diffused by the water, resulting in a smooth hit.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Percolator Bong
When shopping for a percolator bong, there are a few key things to consider:
Material: Percolator bongs can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, silicone, and acrylic. Glass is the most popular choice because it is durable, easy to clean, and produces a pure, flavorless smoke. However, glass can be fragile and is not suitable for rough handling. Silicone bongs are a good alternative if you want something more durable and portable, but they may not produce as smooth of a hit as glass. Acrylic bongs are the least expensive option, but they are prone to scratching and can produce a harsh, plastic-like taste.
Size: Percolator bongs come in a range of sizes, from small and portable to large and decorative. Consider the size that best fits your needs and preferences. If you plan on using your bong frequently or sharing it with others, a larger size may be more suitable.
Percolator type: As mentioned above, there are many different types of percolators to choose from. Consider which type will best suit your needs and preferences. Some percs are more effective at diffusing smoke and cooling hits, while others may be more aesthetically pleasing or easier to clean.
Glass thickness: The thickness of the glass on a percolator bong is an important factor to consider, as it determines the bong’s durability and overall quality. Thicker glass is generally more durable and less likely to break, but it may also be heavier and more expensive. Thinner glass is lighter and more affordable, but it is also more prone to breaking. A good rule of thumb is to choose a bong with at least 3 mm thick glass.
Accessories for Percolator Bongs
In addition to the main bong and percolator, there are many accessories available to enhance your smoking experience.
Bowl Pieces: A bowl piece is the part of the bong where you load your cannabis, and it is usually made from glass or silicone. There are many different styles and sizes of bowl pieces to choose from, including traditional pinch bowls, slide bowls, and drop-down bowls.
Ash Catchers: An ash catcher is a small attachment that fits between the bowl piece and the bong, and it helps to catch ash and other debris before it reaches the water. This can help to keep your bong clean and maintain the taste of your smoke. Ash catchers come in a variety of styles and sizes, including tree ash catchers, inline ash catchers, and showerhead ash catchers.
Downstems: A downstem is a long, narrow tube that fits into the bong and helps to draw smoke from the bowl piece into the water. Downstems can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, metal, and silicone, and they can be either fixed or removable. Removable downstems are convenient because they can be easily replaced if they become clogged or damaged.
Ice Catchers: Ice catchers are small, triangular-shaped indentations that allow you to add ice cubes to your bong, which can help to further cool the smoke. They are usually located near the top of the bong, and they can be very useful on hot days or for those who prefer a particularly cool hit.
Carb Caps: Carb caps are small covers that fit over the bowl piece and help to regulate airflow, allowing you to take smaller, more controlled hits. They are commonly used with dab rigs, which are specialized bongs designed for consuming concentrates such as wax or shatter.
Dab Nails: Dab nails are specialized bowl pieces that are used for dabbing, which is a method of consuming concentrates such as wax or shatter. They are usually made from quartz, titanium, or ceramic, and they can be heated with a torch to create a hot surface for the concentrates to be vaporized on.
Conclusion: Enjoying a Smoother, Cooler Smoking Experience with a Percolator Bong
Overall, percolator bongs are a popular choice for cannabis enthusiasts because they offer a smoother, cooler, and more enjoyable smoking experience. When shopping for a percolator bong, consider the material, size, percolator type, glass thickness, and any desired accessories. With so many options available, there is sure to be a percolator bong that meets your needs and preferences.