We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: one of the best things about weed is how versatile it is. Not only is there a nearly endless variety of cannabis strains to choose from, but there’s a consumption method for every occasion also. So many, in fact, that it might seem overwhelming if you’re new to the world of cannabis.

For instance, there are several methods for smoking marijuana alone, including joints, bongs, vaping, and dabbing. Joints and vaping, while different, are pretty straightforward, but what about the difference between dab rigs and bongs? Well, we’ll tell you!

The Main Differences

Both bongs and dab rigs are water pipes. This means the water in the base of the pipe filters and cools the smoke, which makes for a smoother inhalation without breathing in ash, flower particles, or tar. But there are two primary differences between a bong and dab rig. The first depends on what you’re smoking, and the second is the size.

Bongs

One of the first things you’ll notice is the size discrepancy between a bong and a dab rig. This is because Bongs are designed for smoking dried cannabis flower, the same you’d smoke in a joint or hand-held pipe. Bongs come in various sizes ranging from around a foot to several feet tall and have a small piece called a “bowl” where the flower goes and fits into a joint of the bong. Some of the larger ones also have percolators, making for even better filtration.

See, the smoke from combusting dried flower maintains its potency even with longer distances. If anything, the further it travels, the more it’s filtered, and the smoother the inhalation will be on your lungs.

Dab Rigs

On the other hand, dab rigs are generally smaller and are used for smoking concentrates such as oils or waxes. Technically, you can smoke hash using a dab rig as well, but it’s less straightforward, and we advise against it for new users. While the smoke from dried flower doesn’t lose potency regardless of how far it travels in a bong, the same is not true for dab rigs. The reason for their smaller stature is to get the smoke filtered and into your lungs quickly before losing potency or flavor.

See, the smoke from combusting dried flower maintains its potency even with longer distances. If anything, the further it travels, the more it’s filtered, and the smoother the inhalation will be on your lungs.

Like bowl pieces for bongs, dab rigs have a dab nail which is where the concentrate is placed for smoking. Dab rigs are used a little differently than the bowl pieces for bongs. After placing the dried flower in a bowl, you insert it into the bong stem and light it using a typical lighter. However, a small blow torch is needed to heat the dab nail, then place the concentrates on the nail, which vaporizes the concentrates.

Are They Interchangeable?

The short answer is yes. Technically, you can use a bong to smoke concentrates, and a dab rig can be used to smoke dried cannabis. All you’d really have to do is swap the bowl or dab rig, and really, even that is optional.

However, we recommend keeping one piece for flower and one for concentrates rather than using one piece for both. This is because mixing flower and concentrate might result in an unpleasant taste. It will probably make cleaning more difficult as combusting dried flowers leaves more residue than vaporizing concentrates.

Mostly what it comes down to is personal preference. You can mix and match to your heart’s content until you find what works best for you. Just keep in mind that each is designed to elevate the user’s experience with a specific product. If you’re going to spend the money on a glass piece, you’ll want to get the most out of it.

Final Thoughts

Both dab rigs and bongs are fantastic options for smoking cannabis. This is primarily because of the unique yet simple filtration qualities the water provides, making the whole experience even better. Plus, bongs especially are incredible works of art. Greeley Gallery even has some hanging on the wall at our marijuana dispensary in North Portland!

Now that you know the differences between a dab rig and a bong check out our glass and accessories online. As always, if you have any more questions about the differences between bongs and dab rigs, you can always ask out friendly staff. Our knowledgeable staff wants to do everything we can to ensure you have the best experience possible.