Waterpipes: Dab Rigs vs Bongs

Bongs and dab rigs are both types of water pipes used for smoking cannabis, but they differ in their design, function, and intended use. Bongs are typically larger water pipes that are used for smoking dry herb. They feature a bowl or slide where the dry herb is placed and burned, and the smoke is then drawn through the water, which cools and filters it. This process results in a smoother and less harsh smoking experience.

Dab rigs, on the other hand, are designed for smoking cannabis concentrates such as wax, shatter, or oil. They are typically smaller and more intricate than bongs and feature a specialized nail or banger that is heated with a torch to vaporize the concentrate. The resulting vapor is then inhaled through the rig's water filtration system. This method provides a more intense and flavorful smoking experience than smoking dry herb through a bong.

In terms of design, bongs and dab rigs can have similar shapes and features, such as percolators or ice catchers, but the key difference is in the bowl or nail. Bong bowls are typically designed for holding and burning dry herb, while dab nails or bangers are designed for holding and vaporizing concentrates. Dab rigs also tend to have smaller chambers than bongs, as the vapor produced by concentrates is more potent than smoke from dry herb and doesn't need as much space to cool.

Overall, while both bongs and dab rigs are used for smoking cannabis, they differ in their design and intended use. Bongs are designed for smoking dry herb, while dab rigs are intended for use with cannabis concentrates. Understanding the differences between the two can help you choose the right equipment for your smoking preferences, whether you prefer the smoother smoking experience of a bong or the intense flavor of a dab rig.