The Most Unique Hand Pipes Buyer's Guide

When it comes to selecting a hand pipe, the variety and uniqueness of designs can be overwhelming. This guide aims to help you navigate through the different types of hand pipes, their features, and what to consider when making a purchase.

Types of Hand Pipes

Spoon Pipes

Shape: Resembles a spoon.
Features: Includes a bowl and a side carburetor (carb) for airflow control.
Special Features: Often comes with artistic designs, built-in ash catchers, ergonomic shapes, and pendant styles.
Buying Tips: Ideal for beginners due to their reliability, affordability, and portability.

Spoon pipes are the quintessential hand pipe, perfect for those just starting their smoking journey. Their simple design makes them easy to use and clean, while the variety of artistic designs available ensures there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a basic model or a more intricate piece, spoon pipes offer a reliable and enjoyable smoking experience.

Bubblers

Shape: Can be upright or hammer-shaped.
Features: Incorporates water filtration, making it easy to rinse and refill.
Special Features: Includes cone bubblers, compatibility with quartz banger nails for concentrates, diffused downstems, and percolators.
Buying Tips: Perfect for those who want water filtration in a portable form.

Bubblers combine the best of both worlds, offering the portability of a hand pipe with the smooth hits of a water pipe. The water filtration system cools and filters the smoke, providing a cleaner and more enjoyable experience. Whether you prefer an upright or hammer-shaped design, bubblers are a versatile and practical choice.

Chillums

Shape: Small, cylindrical, and ultra-portable.
Features: Packs a couple of rips and is easy to clean.
Special Features: Artistic themes, contours, and stands.
Buying Tips: Great for on-the-go use and easy maintenance.

Chillums are the ultimate in portability and simplicity. These small, cylindrical pipes are perfect for quick, discreet hits on the go. Despite their simple design, chillums often feature artistic themes and contours, making them a stylish and practical choice for any smoker.

Materials of Hand Pipes

Glass Pipes

Material: 100% Borosilicate Glass
Pros: Easy to clean, low heat retention, zero emissions, maintains flavor profile, durable if cared for, does not degrade.
Cons: Breakable under certain conditions.

Glass pipes are a popular choice due to their clean taste and aesthetic appeal. Made from borosilicate glass, these pipes are durable and resistant to thermal shock. They come in a wide range of designs, from simple and functional to intricate and artistic.

Metal Pipes

Materials: Brass, Nickel, Anodized Aluminum
Pros: Virtually unbreakable, low maintenance, affordable.
Cons: High emissions, metallic taste, higher heat retention.

Metal pipes are known for their durability and low maintenance. They are virtually unbreakable, making them a great choice for those who need a rugged, reliable pipe. However, they can retain heat and may impart a metallic taste to the smoke.

Wood Pipes

Materials: Briar, Corn Cob, Meerschaum, Bubinga, Padauk, Brazilian Cherry, Rosewood, Hard Maple
Pros: Hard to break, low emissions, maintains flavor profile.
Cons: Harder to clean, requires natural solution cleaner and pipe cleaners, porous material takes longer to dry out.

Wood pipes offer a natural, earthy smoking experience. They are durable and maintain the flavor profile of your herb. However, they require more maintenance and cleaning compared to other materials.

Buying Tips

Affordability

If budget is a concern, look for basic models like the OG Chillum. These pipes offer a reliable and enjoyable smoking experience without breaking the bank.

Portability

For those who need a pipe for travel, consider compact and portable options like the Marley Natural Black Walnut Taster. These pipes are easy to carry and use on the go.

Convenience

Opt for multi-functional devices like the GRAV® Dugout for added convenience. These pipes offer built-in storage and tasters, making them perfect for on-the-go use.

Aesthetic Appeal

Consider unique designs like the Glassheads Donut Hand Pipe for visual appeal. These pipes not only provide a great smoking experience but also serve as a piece of art.

Functionality

Ensure the pipe has features that enhance the smoking experience, such as the cooling mouthpiece in the GRAV Gandalf Pipe. Look for built-in ash catchers, diffused downstems, and percolators for a smoother and cleaner hit.

Conclusion

Hand pipes come in various types and materials, each with its own set of features and benefits. Whether you prioritize portability, aesthetic appeal, or functionality, there is a hand pipe to suit your needs. By considering the different types, materials, and unique features, you can find the perfect hand pipe for your smoking experience. Happy smoking!