Gravity bongs are a popular smoking method that uses air pressure and water to create a vacuum that pulls the smoke into a chamber. This produces a more potent hit than traditional smoking methods, making it a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts. In this article, I’ll look closer at gravity bongs, their history, how they work, and what you need to know before trying one for yourself.
Gravity bongs, also known as “waterfall” or “bucket” bongs, use gravity to create suction that pulls the smoke into the chamber. To use a gravity bong, first, a bowl of marijuana is packed and placed on top of the bottle or container. The bottom of the container is then submerged in water, with the mouthpiece remaining above the water level. The smoker then lights the bowl while slowly lifting the container out of the water, creating a suction that pulls smoke into the chamber. Once the chamber is filled with smoke, the smoker removes the bowl and inhales the smoke.
Overview of Gravity Bongs
Gravity bongs are also known as water bongs, bucket bongs, or depth charges. They are typically made from plastic bottles or containers, and their design allows users to inhale a large amount of smoke with minimal effort. The gravity bong is a simple device that uses water to create a vacuum, which pulls the smoke into the chamber. The smoke is forced into their lungs when the user inhales, providing a potent hit.
How Does a Gravity Bong Work?
The principle behind the gravity bong is simple. When you light cannabis in a bowl and place it on top of a bottle filled with water, the smoke fills it. You then remove the bowl and pull the bottle up, creating a vacuum that draws the smoke into the chamber. When you open the bottle, the vacuum is released, and the smoke is pulled into your lungs.
Gravity bongs are also called “bucket bongs” because they typically use a bucket of water to create a vacuum. The user will submerge a plastic bottle into the water, filling it with smoke. They lift the bottle out of the water, creating a vacuum that forces the smoke into their lungs.
Parts of a Gravity Bong
A gravity bong consists of two main parts: the bowl and the chamber. The bowl is where the cannabis is placed, and it is typically made from metal, glass, or ceramic. The chamber is part of the gravity bong that holds the smoke. It is usually made from a plastic bottle or container.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Gravity Bong
One of the main benefits of using a gravity bong is that it is an efficient way to conserve cannabis. Since it pulls the smoke into the chamber, you can use less cannabis to achieve the same effects as traditional smoking methods. Additionally, the vacuum created by the bong produces a more potent hit, which is why it is a popular choice among cannabis enthusiasts.
However, there are also some drawbacks to using a gravity bong. One of the biggest concerns is the lack of filtration. Since the smoke is pulled directly into the chamber, there is no filter to remove harmful chemicals or particles. Additionally, the vacuum created by the bong can be harsh on the lungs, making it a less desirable option for those with respiratory issues.
Gravity Bong vs. Traditional Water Pipe
While a gravity bong and a traditional water pipe may look similar, some key differences exist. A water pipe, also known as a bong, uses water to filter smoke before it is inhaled. This helps to remove harmful chemicals and particles, making it a safer option for those with respiratory issues. Additionally, water pipes typically allow for more control over the amount of smoke inhaled, making it a less harsh option for those who prefer a milder hit.
How to Make a Gravity Bong at Home
If you want to try a gravity bong, you can easily make one home. All you need is a plastic bottle, a bowl, and a bucket of water. To make a gravity bong, follow these steps:
- Cut the bottom off of a plastic bottle.
- Screw a bowl onto the top of the bottle.
- Fill a bucket with water and submerge the bottle, leaving the bowl above the water level.
- Light the cannabis in the bowl and pull the bottle out of the water, creating a vacuum that pulls the smoke into the chamber.
- When the chamber is full of smoke, remove the bowl and inhale the smoke from the chamber.
Tips for Using a Gravity Bong
If you decide to use a gravity bong, a few tips can help you get the most out of your experience. First, inhale slowly and steadily to avoid coughing or discomfort. Additionally, try to use high-quality cannabis to ensure the best flavor and effects. Finally, clean your gravity bong regularly to avoid buildup and maintain its effectiveness.
Safety Precautions When Using a Gravity Bong
Like any smoking method, some safety precautions should be taken when using a gravity bong. One of the biggest concerns is the lack of filtration, which can lead to inhaling harmful chemicals and particles. Additionally, the vacuum created by the bong can be harsh on the lungs, making it a less desirable option for those with respiratory issues.
To minimize the risks of using a gravity bong, use high-quality cannabis and clean your bong regularly. Additionally, try to inhale slowly and steadily to avoid coughing or discomfort.
Gravity Bongs and Drug Use
It’s important to note that while gravity bongs have become increasingly popular among cannabis users, they can also be used to smoke other substances. This can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening, particularly regarding more potent drugs like methamphetamine or heroin.
If you use a gravity bong, only use it with cannabis and avoid using it to smoke other substances.
Conclusion
Gravity bongs are a popular smoking method that uses air pressure and water to create a vacuum that pulls the smoke into a chamber. While they are a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts, some concerns about their safety and effectiveness exist. If you decide to try a gravity bong for yourself, use high-quality cannabis and follow safety precautions to minimize the risks associated with this method.
