Bong

A bong is a filtration device used to smoke cannabis flower. The quintessential bong features a conical vertical tube, a water reservoir base, a bowl to hold ground flower, and typically a removable slide or downstem to deliver smoke through the water. As the user inhales, hot combustive smoke travels down via the neck, percolates through the water, and up into the chamber for inhalation.

Unlike unfiltered smoking methods, bongs cool and filter smoke through water to produce a smoother, less irritating hit. However, the tradeoff is the necessitating cleaning and maintenance to prevent bacteria and mold buildup within residual bong water and resin accumulation.

Bongs represent an evolution of the classic water pipe, engineered specifically for optimally inhaling cannabis smoke. Proper use involves carefully lighting bowls while simultaneously inhaling with force to pull smoke through the water filtration system.