What to Look for in a Glass Pipe? A Complete Guide

Glass pipes do not just function as a smoking device but are aesthetically appealing as well. Glass as a material can blend in various colors and create beautiful pieces. Glass blowers can manufacture some of the most exquisite pieces that double up as showpieces too. In fact, some glass pieces change color while they are used. A lot of thought goes into picking the right glass pipe. This write-up exclusively deals with answering the question- What to look for in a glass pipe?

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What is a Glass Pipe?

A glass pipe is used to smoke weed. Glass doesn’t tamper with the original flavor of the tobacco. Hence, it’s the obvious choice among the stoner community. Some do prefer other cheaper and more durable materials like silicone and metal. But glass pieces are the way to enjoy your hash.

How is a Glass Pipe Made?

It is created through two glass-making processes- blowing and fuming. By blowing into the molten glass and adding various colors one can mold glass into any shape. Color-changing weed pipes are produced using the fuming process.

The Various Types

Chillums, Steamrollers, Spoons, Bubblers, Sherlock or Gandalf pipes are the various types to choose from. Each has its own merits and serves various purposes.

Advantages of a Glass Pipe

Apart from the fact that glass distorts the taste of the herb, there are several other advantages of using weed pipes made with glass-

1. 1. Glass heats up slowly and losses heat easily making it comfy to use.
   2. As compared to other materials, a glass pipe stays clean because they do not let extra smoke accumulate.
   3. These are aesthetically appealing. Glass can be engineered into any design shape or color. There is a high demand for custom made glass weed pipes.
   4. These are exciting and amusing to use. One can see the smoke accumulate and pass in transparent pieces. In color-changing glass pieces, the color of the weed pipes changes while it is used.
   5. Glass is non-porous and non-combustible. The chances of bacteria accumulating in the pipe are minuscule.
   6. They are easy to clean as the residue build-up is minimum.
   7. Glass weed pipes ensure a high-quality smoking experience. They provide a pure smoking flavor.

What to Look for in a Glass Pipe?

Now that we know the several pros of using a glass weed pipe let’s move on to answering the question at hand- what to look for in a glass pipe? As mentioned earlier, there are several choices to choose from. This can make our decision-making process a bit overwhelming. The following tips will come in handy-

1. Type of glass used

While shopping for a glass weed pipe be on the lookout for words like ‘borosilicate glass’, ‘scientific glass’, or ‘lab-quality glass’. Why? Because a glass pipe isn’t manufactured using ordinary glass. A special type of glass called ‘borosilicate’ has been engineered to specifically manufacture weed pipes. This glass type can withstand high temperatures and mix with various chemicals and substances. These glass pieces are of high quality and a bit more expensive. No need to panic if the one you like doesn’t carry the tag of high quality. You can always purchase cheaper ones especially if you are a novice smoker. Cheaper pipes are simply less durable and tend to overheat. But they won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

2. The Style of the Pipe

As mentioned earlier, there are several styles and designs in the market. Each has its own specific features. Therefore, do a bit of research and narrow down your choices. Whichever product you choose should fulfill your purpose and suit your personality.

3. Portability-

Glass weed pipes are smaller in size and portable. You can easily carry them around in a case. Therefore, if you are someone who likes to smoke on the move, choose one that is transportable. A style that is uncomplicated and doesn’t require any kind of assembly would be a great fit.

4. Brand name

More than the price it is the brand of the pipe that matters. You do not want to be stuck with a brand that offers you moon and stars but delivers low quality products. Always stick with brand names that have been around for some time. Cheap quality pipes have flooded the market in recent times that sell low quality products. Even if you plan to invest in a budgeted pipe do stick with a branded one. Read the online reviews and comments of the various company’s websites before you shell out a single penny. At least this way you know what you are getting into.

5. Cost factor

Glass pipes are relatively cheaper because they are smaller in size. But having said that hand-blown pipes and artistic pipes can cost more. In fact, custom made pipes can cost you a few hundred dollars. Essentially, most pipes made with glass are affordable. It is the delicate and intricate ones that cost more. Therefore, pre-decide a budget and you can always upgrade yourself once you get a hang of it.

6.      Enquire all your doubts

On the same note, do read the terms and conditions of any company that you plan to purchase from. Additionally, review their delivery and shipping charges. Some companies offer free shipping but may charge for returns. Therefore, read the fine print before you purchase the product.

Some Disadvantages to Consider

Like any other product, a glass weed pipe has its cons as well.

1.  They cost more than their cheaper counterparts made with metal or silicone. So, if you are just starting out or on a tight budget or have butterfingers, try considering a cheaper alternative.
2. Glass weed pipes can break easily. Plus, their parts are irreplaceable. So, if the pipe breaks that’s it. In fact, while cleaning, one has to pay extra attention. These are fragile items that can break when dropped.

Do keep these limitations in mind while making a decision.

Concluding words

So, this was our list of what to look for in a glass pipe. Everyone starts somewhere. The above pointers will guide you if you are planning on purchasing your very first glass weed pipe. Even if you have bought one before, the above advice can help you reach a better version of the one you already possess.