There are several different factors to consider if you are looking to buy a new glass pipe. Glass pipes come in an endless variety of shapes and sizes so there are many factors such as size, quality, function, and other aspects you must consider when shopping around for one. Since there are so many options available, it can sometimes be a little bit overwhelming looking for one. If you are not sure exactly what type of pipe you want, then check out our guide below to help choose the perfect glass pipe for you!
Dry Pipes VS Water Pipes
The first most important decision to make is whether you want a dry glass pipe or water glass pipe. Generally speaking, dry pipes are smaller, cheaper, and more convenient to use compared to water pipes. Dry pipes are easier to travel with and are considered the standard glass pipe for smoking. If you are on a budget, or just want something quick and easy to use than a dry pipe will fit you best.
Water pipes on the other hand are a little bigger, more expensive, and geared toward more experienced smokers. Typical water pipes you will find in most headshops include bongs, dab rigs, and bubblers. These provide users with a smoother smoking experience because the water acts as a smoke filter to help clean out impurities from the smoke. These are especially good for smoking essential oils as those can sometimes be harsh with a dry pipe. Water pipes work well for a variety of smokers. These work well for those who want a smoother smoke and do not have to travel with the pipe as much. Since water pipes can spill easily and cause a mess, they are definitely better to have a permanent spot in your home. Water pipes are also recommended for smoking oils as we mentioned above. In particular, if you are using essential oils you will probably want to select a dab rig or small bong that is equipped with a quartz banger.
Size
Once you have decided whether you want a dry pipe or water pipe, you need to figure what size you want your glass pipe to be. For dry pipes, something standard is about 3-5 inches in length. Pipes this size fit well in your hand and do not provide an overwhelming amount of smoke when using it. They can also fit well in your pocket or a small bag so you can carry them with no problem. If you want a dry pipe we definitely recommend getting something between 3-5 inches in length. That doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t choose something different. If you want something very, very discreet you could go with what it called a peanut pipe. These are about 2 inches in length and are very easy to use discreetly. Oppositely, if you want something that provides a little extra smoke and you do not need to travel with your dry pipe as much, maybe something 6 inches or longer might work best for you.
The same basic principles that apply to dry pipes also apply to water pipes when choosing the right size for you. Small water pipes are more convenient to use and easier to travel with while big water pipes provide more smoke and are better for at home. One aspect that you must considered that it is not important with dry pipes is the function. We will dive into function a little bit more, but just generally speaking the bigger the water pipe, than more percolators and extras it has to provide a smoother use.
Quality
Deciding which type of quality glass pipe you would like is truly up to you and how much your budget is. There are a variety of different quality glass pipes ranging from cheap glass pipes to high quality American made glass pipes. There are pros and cons associated with both cheap and high quality pipes.
Cheap pipes obviously have a lower price point and are perfect for those looking to save a buck. These are made with thinner glass though compared to higher quality glass pipes and sometimes break easier. Because of that, these may not be suited well for those who are clumsy.
Higher quality glass pipes include pipes made from thick glass with precision detail. You can find high quality glass pipes from established brands such as Bougie Glass, Empire Glassworks, Diamond Glass, GRAV Labs, and more. There is also high quality glass that is not branded, but still made with perfection. High quality glass pipes are better for those with more money to spend since they are more expensive as well as those who are looking for something a little more durable.
Function
Function types for dry glass pipes are pretty limited. Chillums and steam roller pipes give a little flair to the standard glass hand pipe, but they still pretty much provide the same function. If you have decided you want to purchase a dry pipe do worry too much about the function.
Water pipes on the other hand have many different types of functions. You can have percs, recyclers, and more added to your water pipe to suit what function works for you best. The more water filtration you have in your water pipe, the smoother it will be when smoking. Water pipes with more filtration though are generally bigger and more expensive compared to more simple water pipes, so there are different factors to consider. If you want something cheap and small, a simple functioning water pipe will be best for you. If you have more money to spend and do not mind a little bigger water pipe, you can get something with a percolator that will provide you with better function.
Other Factors
The factors we listed above are just general guide lines for helping you to choose the best glass pipe for yourself. These guide lines don’t apply to everyone and there are tons of other factors you can consider when buying a glass pipe. Different color types, brand preferences, or even buying for a friend are other factors that you might consider when buying a glass pipe. Remember this is just a guide to help you, but ultimately the decision is up to you!
More on Dry Pipes: Different Types of Smoking Pipes
More on Water Pipes: Different Types of Bongs & How to Choose the Right One