We do all the geeking out for you, so you can relax and just enjoy your smoke. Get ready to explore our curated selection of hand pipes and find your new favorite piece.

What Are Hand Pipes?

Hand pipes are small, portable smoking devices primarily used for consuming cannabis, dry herbs, hemp, flowers, tobacco, or other herbal substances. Typically made from materials such as glass, metal, or wood, hand pipes feature a bowl where the dry herbs are placed and a chamber for the smoke to travel through before being inhaled through a carb and mouthpiece.

Their compact design offers convenience and discretion, making them popular among smokers who prefer on-the-go usage. Hand pipes come in various styles and sizes, often reflecting users' personal preferences, and can range from simple, practical designs to intricate, artistic creations.

Brief History of Hand Pipes

Hand pipes, often associated with the consumption of dry herbs, tobacco, flowers, flowers, cannabis, and other herbal substances, have a rich and varied history that dates back thousands of years.

The earliest recorded use of pipes can be traced to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, who used them for smoking various herbs, and the indigenous peoples of the Americas, who crafted pipes from materials like clay and wood for ceremonial and recreational purposes.

In the 1970s, archaeologist J. C. Dombrowski uncovered two ceramic bowls in Lalibela Cave, Ethiopia, believed to date back to 1320 AD. These bowls contained traces of black resin identified as cannabis. Interestingly, these artifacts resembled ancient bongs discovered in Russia, dating to around 1000 AD, which also contained cannabis resin.

The 1960s saw glass pipes gained popularity, with the first patent for a glass pipe issued in 1977.

Comparing Hand Pipes vs Water Pipes

Hand pipes, often made of glass, metal, or acrylic, are compact and easy to carry. They allow for quick and straightforward use without the need for additional equipment. They deliver a more direct experience, making the inhalation of smoke immediate and unfiltered.

On the other hand, water pipes, commonly known as bongs, utilize water to cool and filter the smoke before it reaches the lungs, which can result in a smoother hit and potentially fewer harmful particles. While hand pipes are favored for their portability and simplicity, water pipes are appreciated for their enhanced smoking experience and reduced throat irritation.

The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the desired smoking experience.

How Do You Use a Hand Pipe?

Using a hand pipe is a straightforward process favored by many for its simplicity and efficacy. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to use a hand pipe:

1. Grind your substance: Before loading the bowl, it is recommended to grind the substance into small pieces for better combustion and easier inhalation.

2. Pack the bowl: Fill the bowl with your ground substance, making sure not to overpack it.

3. Ignite: Using a lighter or match, hold the flame above the bowl and gently inhale as you light the substance. This will create smoke in the chamber.

4. Inhale: Once the chamber is filled with smoke, remove your finger from the carb hole (if applicable) and inhale through the mouthpiece while simultaneously releasing your finger to allow air into the chamber. This will draw the smoke into your lungs.

5. Exhale: Hold the smoke in your lungs for a few seconds before exhaling through your mouth or nose. Repeat until you've smoked all the substance in the bowl.

6. Clean the bowl: Once finished, use a pipe cleaner or Q-tip to remove any residual substance from the bowl, keeping it clean for future use.

Anatomy of a Hand Pipe

The hand pipe consists of only a few essential components, making it a very easy-to-use smoking device that is perfect for both beginners and seasoned smokers alike.

Let's take a look at the different parts of a hand pipe and their functions:

• Bowl: This is where the dry herb is placed and ignited. It can refer to both the actual chamber of the pipe where the herb is loaded and the entire device itself.

• Carb Hole: Also known as a carb or choke, this small hole on the side of the pipe allows air to flow into the chamber, controlling airflow and regulating smoke intake. The carb must be covered during the inhale.

• Inner Chamber: Enclosed within the bowl, this space is where the herb is loaded, and the smoke builds up before being inhaled. The inner chamber is typically rounded and has a small draught hole at the bottom to let the smoke flow to the mouthpiece.

• Shank: The shank is the neck of the pipe that connects the bowl to the mouthpiece.

• Mortise: The mortise is the joint connecting the shank to the bowl.

• Tenon: The tenon is the joint connecting the shank to the mouthpiece.

• Stem: The stem is the straight section of the smoking pipe that links the bowl's inner chamber to the mouthpiece. This part of the pipe is where the smoke gathers, so its size will determine the size of the hit the pipe can provide.

• Mouthpiece: This is the part of the hand pipe the user places against their lips to inhale the smoke.

• Lip: The lip is the opening of the mouthpiece where the smoke travels out into the user's mouth.

• Bore: The bore is inside the mouthpiece where smoke flows through.

Different Hand Pipe Materials

Smoking pipes are available in various styles and crafted from wood, glass, silicone, etc. DankGeek offers a wide selection of hand pipes in its inventory.

Glass Smoking Pipes

Glass hand pipes come in designs ranging from the straightforward spoon pipe—which embodies the basic and timeless profile—to the more intricate and artisan-crafted pieces. Glass pipes are popular among smokers because they deliver excellent flavor and are very easy to clean. But, since glass is a fragile material, proper care must be taken to avoid breakage.

Borosilicate glass is often used to make these pipes because it contains boron trioxide, which can withstand high temperatures. Glass smoking pipes are mainly used for dry herbs, but some designs can also handle concentrates. However, tools like dab rigs may work more efficiently for those substances.

Metal Smoking Pipes

For a durable and affordable option, metal smoking pipes are a go-to. Smokers favor them because they're easy to maintain and offer a longer lifespan. After all, the materials used are less likely to break or crack.

The primary concern with metal pipes is their tendency to impart a slight metallic flavor, which some users may find disagreeable. Moreover, they can become quite hot to the touch, so many metal pipes are fitted with handles made from cooler materials such as plastic or wood to improve handling during use.

Silicone Smoking Pipes

Like metal hand pipes, silicone hand pipes are exceptionally durable and budget-friendly. With silicone, the risk of breakage is minimal, making it an ideal choice for those who value longevity above all else. Additionally, silicone hand pipes remain cool to the touch, offering a more comfortable experience compared to their metal counterparts.

One downside of silicone pipes is that they don't provide as clean a taste as glass and are harder to clean, which might affect the overall quality and purity of the smoking session. That's why we suggest using hybrid models to achieve a similar smoking flavor profile. Hybrid pipes utilize glass for the bowl and chamber, while silicone is employed for the stem and mouthpiece.

Wood Smoking Pipes

If you're an old soul and the appeal of traditional smoking devices is not lost on you, wooden hand pipes might be the perfect fit. Wood is one of the oldest materials for smoking pipes and offers a timeless look and feel, with its natural grain being part of its charm. They're often handcrafted from oak trees.

Since wood is naturally porous, choosing a high-quality pipe that will resist heat and moisture is important—two elements known for damaging wooden materials. Users should also apply proper care to clean and maintain these pipes regularly to prevent mold or bacteria growth.

Ceramic Smoking Pipes

Ceramic pipes have been around longer than the glass alternative. They're made from clay and can be molded into a virtually limitless array of shapes and designs, from the whimsically novel to the elegantly understated. Ceramic pipes offer a traditional smoking experience with excellent heat resistance, making them an ideal choice for smokers who want to savor their dry herbs.

Ceramic hand pipes are fragile and should be handled with care. Like glass, they are susceptible to breaking or chipping if dropped or mishandled. One key difference between ceramic pipes and their glass counterpart is that ceramics are entirely opaque. This might be a downside for those who enjoy watching the smoke travel through their pipe.

Stone Smoking Pipes

Stone pipes have a long history, particularly among Indigenous peoples in North America, who used them for ceremonial purposes as well as for smoking tobacco and other plants. These pipes are often made from soapstone, granite, or marble.

Because stones are durable, they can handle some rough use. They're also good insulators, making them great for maintaining your herbs' heat and flavor profile. Stone pipes also don't impart any flavor to your smoke and leave a cooling effect on each hit.

Different Types of Hand Pipes By Design

DankGeek offers a range of hand pipes in unique shapes and styles. The following are among the most popular types of hand pipes:

Spoon Pipe

The spoon pipe is the OG hand pipe, sporting a design that looks just like a spoon, with a small, shallow bowl at one end and a long, slender handle on the other. Most spoon pipes are made from glass but can also be constructed using metal or wood. They're popular due to their portability and user-friendly design.

Pros:

• Highly portable for on-the-go use

• Ergonomic design, comfortable to hold

• Simple to use, with a familiar carb mechanism

Cons:

• Smaller bowls may require more frequent refills

• Can become clogged quite easily

• Can be more fragile than metal or wooden pipes, especially if made of glass

Sherlock Pipe

Named after the famous detective Sherlock Holmes, Sherlock pipes have a long, curvy shape that resembles the character's iconic smoking pipe. Their large bowl and extended stem offer a cooler and smoother smoking experience. Many Sherlock pipes are made from glass, but wood, silicone, and stone are also available.

Pros:

• Larger bowl size for longer smoking sessions

• Unique design adds a touch of personality to your collection

• Some models have built-in ash catchers for cleaner hits

Cons:

• May be less portable due to its length and shape

• Can be more difficult to clean due to the curves and corners

Gandalf Pipes

Like Sherlock pipes, Gandalf pipes have an extended stem but a longer and more dramatic curve. They are ideal for smokers who enjoy a slower, more meditative smoking experience. Gandalf pipes are available in glass and wood.

Pros:

• Unique design and appearance

• Longer stem allows for cooler hits

• Can provide a smoother smoking experience compared to shorter pipes

Cons:

• May be less portable due to its length and shape

• Some models can be challenging to clean due to the curves and angles

Steamroller

Steamroller pipes are easily identified by their open-ended cylindrical design, which allows smoke to accumulate inside the tube before inhalation, creating a powerful and smooth hit. The central location of the bowl, in relation to its large carb hole, allows air to flow quickly through the pipe, which experienced smokers might appreciate because of the intensity it brings.

Pros:

• Can produce a significant volume of smoke

• Direct inhalation creates a potent experience

• It’s easy to clean since it’s simply a glass tube with holes

Cons:

• May generate harsher hits, less ideal for novices

• Ergonomically challenging for those with smaller hands due to the larger carb operation

Chillum/Taster/One Hitters

Compact and stealthy, one-hitters or chillums are perfect for single-use sessions. It resembles a streamlined tube designed for discretion and limits smoke intake to just a few puffs. They trace back to India and Afghanistan but are now largely employed for their simplicity and efficiency for quick, low-quantity smoking.

Pros:

• Highly discreet and portable

• Suitable for controlled individual use

Cons:

• Limited bowl capacity, requiring frequent refills for prolonged use

• A lack of a carb hole results in less satisfying hits

Bubbler Pipes

Bubbler pipes combine the convenience of a hand pipe with the water filtration benefits of a bong. The water within cools and filters the smoke, leading to a milder hit than found with dry pipes. Although their bowls may be smaller than bongs, the enhanced flavor and reduced harshness contribute to a pleasant smoking session.

Pros:

• Portable with the benefits of water filtration

• Provides a smoother hit compared to dry pipes

• Aesthetic and functional design

Cons:

• It requires frequent cleaning due to water usage

• More parts and structures to clean than simple hand pipes

Novelty Pipes

Novelties are just like regular pipes but with fun and unique designs that make them pop. They can range from cartoon characters to animals, making them a fun addition to any collection, great conversation starters, or thoughtful gifts.

Pros:

• Creative designs add a touch of personality

• Can be a unique and appreciated gift

Cons:

• Novelty shapes may be difficult to clean

• Functionality could be secondary to form in some cases

Briar Pipes

Briar pipes are made primarily from briar wood, which is the burl of the white heath tree. This tree is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in areas like Corsica, Italy, and Spain. The wood is known for its durability and heat insulating properties, making it ideal for use in pipes. Briar pipes are popular among pipe smokers due to their ability to enhance the flavor of tobacco or herbs.

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting

• Can improve flavor with proper seasoning

• Aesthetically pleasing natural wood grain patterns

Cons:

• Requires proper seasoning before use to prevent a harsh taste

• More expensive than other materials used for pipes

Heady Hand Pipes

Heady hand pipes are unique art pieces, typically hand-blown by skilled artists. Made from borosilicate glass, they come in various shapes and designs, using techniques to create distinct patterns and colors. These pipes are functional and serve as beautiful display items for any collection.

Pros:

• Unique and intricate designs

• Can double as decorative art pieces in addition to being functional pipes

Cons:

• More expensive than standard hand pipes

• Delicate and may require more careful handling to avoid damage

Tips for Buying Hand Pipes

Shopping for your first hand pipe or adding one to your collection can be an overwhelming experience. With so many options available, it's important to think about a few key factors before making a purchase.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing hand pipes:

Materials

As discussed in the previous sections, hand pipes can be made from various materials, such as glass, metal, wood, and clay. Each material has unique characteristics that can affect the smoking experience.

For example, glass is fragile but offers excellent heat resistance and smooth hits, while metal pipes are durable but may not provide the best flavor. Consider the most important qualities when selecting a material for your hand pipe.

Functionality

Does the pipe have a carb hole for airflow control? Does it have a large enough bowl for your smoking needs? These are essential questions to ask when considering the functionality of a hand pipe. Think about how you like to smoke and ensure that the pipe you choose can accommodate your preferences.

Portability

If you're someone who enjoys smoking on the go, then portability may be a crucial factor for you. In this case, smaller hand pipes or one-hitters may be the best option. But, if you're someone who prefers longer smoking sessions at home, a bong or dab rig may be more suitable.

Care and Maintenance Tips for Hand Pipes

Proper care and maintenance are crucial for keeping your hand pipe in good condition and ensuring a quality smoking experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your pipe frequently using isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt or special cleaning solutions to remove resin and buildup.

• Use Brushes and Swabs: Use pipe cleaners, brushes, or cotton swabs to reach small crevices, ensuring no residue is left behind.

• Rinse with Warm Water: After cleaning, thoroughly rinse with warm water to remove any leftover alcohol and salt.

• Dry Completely: Ensure your pipe is completely dry before storing to prevent mold and lingering odors.

• Inspect for Damage: Regularly check your hand pipe for cracks, leaks, or wear that could affect performance.

• Safe Storage: Store your smoking pipe in a cool, dry place to protect its integrity and extend its lifespan.

• Use a Protective Case: If traveling, store your hand pipes in pipe bags to avoid damage.

• Rotate Pipes: If you own multiple bongs, rotate their use to allow for thorough cleaning and resting.

Different Hand pipe accessories

Various pipe parts and accessories are available on the market to enhance the smoking experience and maintain the quality of your hand pipes. Here are some popular options to consider:

• Protective Carrying Cases: Perfect for traveling, these cases keep your pipe safe from damage and make it super easy to carry around.

• Cleaning Tools: This maintenance kit includes pipe cleaners, brushes, and other tools to help you keep your hand pipe clean and in excellent condition.

• Silicone Scooper: This tamping tool lets you pack your herb easily without touching it, which is perfect for keeping things clean or if you have allergy concerns.

• Permanent smoking screens: This accessory can be reused multiple times, saving you time and money. They're made from durable materials, such as surgical steel.

• Glass bowl screens: These 9-hole screen discs made from glass ensure you get a fresh and clean hit every time.

• Stainless steel bowl screens: These screens are made from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring a clean and smooth hit without affecting the flavor of your smoke.

• Metal screens: These screens can be easily adjusted to fit the size or shape of almost any bowl in a smoking device.

• Screen filters: These screen filters are made from stainless steel or brass. They trap ash and particles in the pipe, allowing smoke to flow easily.

• Pipe Stand: This is a great accessory for letting your pipe rest and cool down, keeping any tobacco or ashes from spilling out.

• Silicone mouthpiece: This accessory is primarily used in water pipes to create an airtight seal and filter out harsh elements and harmful toxins, ensuring a smoother, cleaner hit each time.

• Replacement cap: This silicone cap replacement for Maze-X pipes is easy to clean and helps keep your pipe safe and secure.

• Silicone replacement bat: Made specifically for Pulsar RIP Series Ringer 3-in-1 Silicone Dugout Pipes, these replacement bats are made from premium quality silicone for long-lasting durability.

• Pulsar RIP silicone spoon glass bowl: This replacement part is made from durable borosilicate glass and designed to complement the Pulsar silicone spoon (HP36), ensuring an exceptional smoking experience.

• Stainless Steel Replacement PODs: These snap-on lids are great for use on the go, offering a clean taste without any metallic hints.

• EYCE Borosilicate glass bowl: This is an ideal replacement part for your Hammer Bubbler or EYCE Spoon.

• 18mm glass bowl replacement: This versatile bowl is made for Waxmaid Ice spoon pipes, Daimon pipes, Shark hand pipes, Didi dry pipes, and all Waxmaid silicone glass bowls.

• Hemp Wick: A more eco-friendly and healthier lighting option that gives you a better way to light up your hand pipe.

FAQs

How Much Do Weed Pipes Normally Cost?

A standard glass pipe typically costs $20 to $35, while more elaborate or custom designs can cost upwards of $100 or more.

How Do You Smoke a Pipe With No Carb?

A pipe without a carb will need a bit more effort to pull the smoke through the stem. Smokers should also be aware that with a carbless pipe, some smoke may escape from the bowl as the cherry burns rather than traveling through the pipe.

What’s the Difference Between a Piece, Bowl, and Pipe?

A "piece" is a broad term that encompasses any pipe or crafted smoking device. The bowl specifically refers to the section of the pipe where the herb is packed, although many people also use the term "bowl" to describe the entire piece.

What’s the Difference Between a Pipe, a Bubbler, and a Bong? 

A pipe is a simple, dry smoking device with a bowl and a neck. In contrast, a bong is a water pipe with a bowl connected to a downstem, filtering smoke through water before it reaches the user. A bubbler is similar but is a handheld water pipe with a fixed bowl and water chamber.

Is It Difficult To Clean a Hand Pipe?

No, cleaning a hand pipe is relatively simple with the right tools and techniques. It's essential to clean it regularly to maintain its quality and prevent buildup that could affect your smoking experience.  Use our tips above for proper care and maintenance.

How Long Should a Pipe Smoke Last?

On average, a pipe usually lasts 40 minutes. However, it varies depending on the size and type of pipe, how packed the bowl is, and how often you take hits.

Why Does My Pipe Taste Bad?

If your pipe tastes bad, it might be because of a dirty bowl, residue buildup, or improper storage. Your pipe can develop a bitter or "sour" taste without regular cleaning. Keep your pipe clean and maintained for the best smoking experience.

If the issue persists, it may be time for a replacement part or a new pipe altogether.