Exploring smoking for the first time? Bongs and dab rigs are two common options that might seem similar but are actually used for different purposes and offer unique experiences. Knowing the differences between bongs and dab rigs can help you choose the best tool for enhancing your smoking experience. Learn what distinguishes a bong from a dab rig and how each can complement your smoking habits.
What Are Glass Dab Rigs?
Glass dab rigs are a type of water pipe specifically designed for smoking cannabis concentrates like wax, shatter, crumble, or isolates. The extract is placed on a heated surface, usually quartz, titanium, or ceramic, and then vaporized using a dab tool and a torch. The dab tool, typically made of metal or glass, is used to safely apply the concentrate to the heated surface, while the torch is used to heat the surface to the required temperature for vaporization.
Dab rigs are smaller than traditional bongs and contain less filtration and percolation. This allows the concentrates to vaporize more efficiently while preserving flavor and potency. Most dab rigs consist of a small water chamber with either a bent or straight neck leading up to the mouthpiece.
AFM Glass Dab Rigs Collection
Indulge in a premium dabbing experience with AFM’s collection of quality glass dab rigs, combining aesthetics, ergonomics, and functionality within each brilliant design.
The 10” AFM Palermo Recycler Dab Rig is a stunning showpiece that’s sure to impress. Its precise construction ensures seamless functionality while the vibrant color scheme adds character. An expansive recycler chamber gently diffuses vapor, retaining terpenes and cannabinoids for full-flavored sessions.
Convert your Puffco Proxy into an enhanced concentrate vaporizer with the 10” Proxy Glass Dab Rig attachment. This ingenious accessory integrates flawlessly with the Proxy, upgrading it with added filtration. A UFO perc creates a vortex, refining vapor for extra smoothness and purity of flavor.
What Are Bongs?
Bongs are water pipes designed for smoking dry herbs. They include a water chamber that cools and filters smoke, resulting in a smoother and less harsh smoking experience compared to pipes or joints.
Available in various sizes and styles, they range from sleek, portable units to elaborate, stationary designs. Key components feature a bowl for herbs, a downstem or neck leading to a water chamber equipped with slits or holes for airflow, topped off with a mouthpiece that allows for the inhalation of cooled smoke.
AFM Bongs Collection
Transform your smoking sessions with AFM Smoke’s range of premium glass bongs. We combine the latest styles and bong technologies, from cooling notches to drain recyclers, to give you gear that can elevate your smoking experience.
Immerse yourself in the psychedelic world of Rick and Morty with the limited edition 12” Collectable Anime 9mm Beaker Bong Bundle. This limited collection of 50 individually engraved beaker bongs pays homage to the iconic animated series with quirky designs. Crafted for durability from premium 9mm glass, it’s built to last.
Standing at 18”, the AFM Lightbeam Beaker wields multiple percolators to create a churning turbulence effect. Further chilled by the addition of ice pinches along the tube where you can add ice cubes, taste the crisp purity of cold-filtered terpenes in every luxurious pull with this straight tube bundle.
The 14” AFM Tree Perc Coil Beaker combines visual finesse with tactical cooling enhancements. With an integrated glycerin pack for refreshing coolness and premium borosilicate glass for durability, this scientific glass bong is a stylish and sturdy choice.
Dab Rigs vs. Bongs: Understanding the Difference
Dab rigs and bongs are similar in that they both use water to filter smoke, but they’re designed for specific substances, leading to a few differences, including:
- Usage. The core difference between a dab rig and a bong stems from their intended use. Bongs are meant for smoking dry herbs such as cannabis flowers, while dab rigs are specifically for concentrates.
- Temperature. To effectively vaporize extracts, dab rigs require extremely high temperatures reaching up to 550°F or more. Bongs operate at cooler temperatures, under 400°F, since dry herbs combust at lower heat.
- Size. Size does matter when comparing bongs vs. dab rigs. Dab rigs, benefiting from the lower vapor pressure of extracts, feature a compact design, ranging from 8” to 12”. Bongs, with their larger frames and more complex filtration setups, typically tower over 16” or more.
- Filtration. Bongs are made for dry herbs and come with intricate percolators for smoother draws. On the other hand, dab rigs are simpler, usually without percolators, to keep the flavor of concentrates intact.
Choosing Between a Dab Rig and a Bong
Both dab rigs and bongs offer an excellent way to enjoy your favorite strain. However, when choosing between investing in a dab rig or a traditional bong, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Substance Preference. Your preference ultimately determines your choice. Opt for a bong if you're inclined toward dry herbs, or choose a dab rig if concentrates are more your style.
- Flavor vs. Smoothness. Bongs offer a smoother inhale thanks to their complex percolation systems. If you prefer the taste and strong effects of concentrates, dab rigs are a better match.
- Portability. Think about your mobility needs. Dab rigs, being more compact, cater to smokers who are often on the move. In contrast, bongs, due to their larger size, are better for a stationary setting or for group sessions, offering a chilled and engaging experience.
Find Your Perfect Dab Rig or Bong
Ready to step up your smoking game? Whether you crave the concentrated flavor of a dab rig or the smooth hits of a beaker bong, AFM Smoke has the gear you need. Explore our range and find your perfect match for an upgraded smoking experience.
FAQs
What's the difference between a dab rig vs. a bubbler?
Dab rigs are water pipes specially designed for smoking cannabis concentrates or “dabs.” They have nails or bangers instead of bowls to vaporize concentrates. Bubblers are smaller, handheld water pipes that can be used for smoking flowers or concentrates. While bubblers filter smoke through water, dab rigs provide more filtration and percolation.
How do I clean my dab rig or bong?
An easy cleaner is mixing coarse salt with isopropyl alcohol to make a shaking solution. Seal the openings and add alcohol and salt to the rig or bong. Shake to cleanse and remove any residue from the interior, followed by a thorough rinse with warm water to ensure no salt or residue remains.
Can you use a dab rig as a bong?
Transforming a dab rig into a bong is straightforward: replace the dab nail or banger, meant for concentrates, with a dry herb bowl. This conversion makes your dab rig a multifunctional water pipe, allowing you to alternate between concentrates and dry herbs effortlessly. This easy switch offers a personalized smoking experience, adapting to your preferences.