Glassware FAQ's
What is Scientific Glass?
Scientific glass bongs are cannabis smoking devices crafted from borosilicate glass, the same material found in laboratory equipment. This type of glass is highly resistant to extreme temperatures, ensuring it won't crack from the heat of combusted smoke. These bongs also feature laser-cut percolators, which offer superior filtration for smoother and cleaner hits.
Discover why borosilicate glass bongs are regarded as the best material choice for a safer, cleaner, and more potent smoking experience.
Key Points:
- Borosilicate glass is stronger and more heat-resistant than standard glass.
- It is chemically resistant, preventing any chemical leaching.
- Laser-cut percolators deliver enhanced filtration for cleaner hits.
- The non-porous surface resists bacteria and residue, making cleaning easier.
- It can withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or releasing harmful toxins.
Why is Borosilicate Glass better?
Borosilicate glass is superior because it can endure the intense heat of a bong hit. When smoke enters your bong, it can reach temperatures up to 1,100°F before rapidly cooling in the water. While regular glass may crack under this sudden temperature change, borosilicate glass remains stable. The presence of boron in the glass prevents expansion and contraction, ensuring your bong stays intact through numerous sessions.
Does Glass Thickness Matter?
Borosilicate glass bongs are available in various thicknesses, and this can be more important than you might realize. While borosilicate glass is already more durable than regular glass due to the added boron that enhances its heat resistance, thickness provides an additional layer of protection.
Thin glass (around 1mm) may look sleek, but it's fragile. A single drop could mean you're shopping for a replacement. On the other hand, thicker glass (1.5mm and up) is more durable, able to withstand bumps and accidental knocks without easily cracking.
But thickness isn't just about preventing breaks. Thicker glass also:
- Keeps your bong stable: The added weight makes it less likely to tip over.
- Distributes heat better: Thick glass spreads heat more evenly, reducing stress on any one area.
- Provides a more substantial feel: Some users prefer the solid, weighty feel of a thicker bong.
Most smokers find that a thickness between 1.5mm to 5mm strikes the right balance between durability and ease of use, without making the bong too heavy to lift for a hit.
Pro-tip: Even thick borosilicate glass isn’t indestructible, so always handle your bong with care. If you’re prone to accidents, consider switching to silicone or steel bongs, which are virtually unbreakable.
Benefits of Scientific Borosilicate Glass Bongs:
Borosilicate glass bongs offer a superior smoking experience by delivering clean, pure flavor. Their non-porous surface resists bacteria and residue buildup, and they can withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or releasing harmful chemicals, leading to smoother, more enjoyable hits.
- Clean smoke with pure flavor
- Heat-resistant and chemical-free
- Smooth and efficient cooling
What Is a Bong?
At its core, a bong is essentially a water pipe. Smoke passes through a water-filled chamber, resulting in a cooler, smoother flavor that is easier on the lungs. While all bongs are water pipes, not every water pipe is a bong—more on this below.
Bongs vs. Dab Rigs
Bongs are designed for smoking herb with a pipe bowl, whereas dab rigs are equipped with a vaporizer attachment for oils and concentrates. Dab rigs tend to be smaller, but some versatile pipes can accommodate both by switching attachments—a useful feature if you plan on dabbing.
Bongs vs. Bubblers
While all bongs create bubbles, "bubblers" specifically refer to those with a percolator—a chamber with small holes that further cools the smoke. This design produces a smoother pull by breaking the smoke into tiny bubbles for more efficient cooling.