Hand Pipes

At Dank Geek, we’ve carefully curated the perfect selection of hand pipes to satisfy any and all your smoking needs. So go ahead, explore our repertoire of pipes, and get ready to find your new perfect piece. 

Intro to Hand Pipes?

We get it, buying smoking devices and accessories can be complicated. You may be sitting at home right now, your greens urging you to smoke em’ but you can’t because you're stuck deciding on what to smoke out of. Don’t worry, we’re here to help. So listen up, pencils out, class is in session. 

So, what is a hand pipe? Hand pipes are small, portable smoking devices used for consuming cannabis and other dry herbs. They’re typically made from materials such as glass, metal, or wood. Hand pipes are notorious for featuring a bowl where you place your greens 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 to smoke on-the-go. Hand pipes come in various styles and sizes, often reflecting your personal preferences, and can range from simple, practical designs to intricate, artistic creations.

Hand Pipes: A History 

Hand pipes, often associated with the consumption of cannabis, actually have a rich and varied history that dates back thousands of years. 

The earliest recorded use of hand pipes can be traced to several ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Indigenous people in the Americas.  Hand pipes were used for smoking various herbs for ceremonial and recreational purposes, and were often made of clay and wood.

During the 1970s, archaeologist J. C. Dombrowski uncovered two ceramic bowls in the Lalibela Cave, in Ethiopia, that dated back to 1320 AD. These bowls contained traces of black resin, which was 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 gain popularity, with the first patent for a glass pipe issued in 1977.

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 fairly straightforward process but can be difficult for newcomers. Thankfully for you, we have provided a step-by-step guide on how to use a hand pipe:

1. Grind your greens: Before packing the bowl, we recommend grinding your weed into smaller pieces. This ensures an even burn and better airflow.

2. Pack the bowl: Pack the bowl, but not too much. 

3. Ignite: Using a lighter, hold the flame above the bowl and gently inhale as you light it. 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. This will draw the smoke into your lungs. This step may seem complicated, but easier once you actually do it. 

5. Exhale: Hold the smoke in your lungs for a few seconds before exhaling through your mouth or nose. Repeat until you've cleared the bowl. Or until your lungs give out. Whatever you prefer. 

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

Anatomy of a Hand Pipe

The hand pipe consists of a few essential components, making it easy to use 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 you place your weed before smoking. 

• 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 when inhaling. 

• Inner Chamber: Enclosed within the bowl, this is where smoke builds up before being inhaled. The inner chamber is typically rounded and has a small hole at the bottom allowing the smoke to 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 through which you inhale the smoke.

• Lip: The lip is the opening of the mouthpiece where the smoke travels out into your lungs. 

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

Different Hand Pipe Materials

At DankGeek we offer all kinds of smoking pipes to match your own unique style and preferences. Whether you want a pipe made of wood, glass, or silicone, we are bound to have it. At DankGeek, if you want it, we got it. 

Glass Pipes

A staple in the smoking community and for good reason too, glass pipes are a timeless classic loved by smokers because of their delivery of a powerful and flavorful hit. Ranging from the timeless spoon pipe to more intricate and artfully crafted pieces like a heady pipe, they are a perfect choice for any smoker. Glass pipes are often made of borosilicate glass,  which contains boron trioxide, allowing pipes to withstand high temperatures, allowing you to smoke without worrying about breakage. Although heat resistant,  glass pipes are prone to breakage, especially if mishandled, so show them a little tender love and care. This includes a regular bath in isopropyl alcohol at least once a week. 

Metal Pipes

For a more durable yet affordable option, metal pipes are often a go-to for those stoners prone to accidents. No judging here. Many smokers favor them because they are a more durable option with a longer lifespan. After all, when have you seen metalbreak or crack?

The primary concern with metal pipes is their tendency to impart a slight metallic flavor to your weed. They also tend to get quite hot making it likely to burn more than just your lungs.  To prevent this,  many metal pipes are fitted with handles made of plastic or wood.

Silicone Pipes

Like metal, silicone pipes are exceptionally durable and budget-friendly, with the risk of breakage being minimal. This makes them an ideal choice for smokers who value longevity above all else. Additionally, silicone pipes remain cool to the touch, offering a more comfortable experience when compared to their metal counterparts.

A  downside of silicone pipes is that they don't provide as clean of a taste as glass. Silicone pipes are also harder to clean, which might affect the overall quality of taste of the smoking session. To counteract this we suggest using hybrid models to achieve a similar flavor profile to glass. Hybrid pipes utilize glass for the bowl and chamber while silicone is used for the stem and mouthpiece.

Wood Pipes

We get it, there’s something about a wood pipe.  Maybe you're an old soul, a grandpa in a young man’s body, or maybe you want to feel like you’re in Victorian England, nearing the last clue of a long-lasting unsolved mystery. For those who love the appeal of traditional smoking devices, wooden hand pipes might be the perfect fit. It is good to keep in mind since wood is naturally porous, choosing a high-quality pipe that will resist heat and moisture is very important, as they are known for damaging wood. Users should also apply proper care to clean and maintain these pipes regularly to prevent mold or bacterial growth.

Ceramic Pipes

 Another alternative to glass are Ceramic pipes, which are made from clay and can be molded into virtually any shape or design. Just imagine it, from the whimsically novel to the elegantly understated, ceramic pipes offer limitless opportunities to its users in terms of design. They also offer a traditional smoking experience with excellent heat resistance, making them an ideal choice for smokers who want to savor the flavor profile of their weed. 

Like glass, they are susceptible to breaking or chipping if dropped or mishandled, so be sure to handle them with love and care. One key difference between ceramic pipes and glass is that ceramics are entirely opaque. This might be a deterrent to those who enjoy watching the smoke travel from their pipe into their lungs.

Stone Pipes

Particularly among Indigenous peoples in North America, who used them for ceremonial purposes as well as for smoking tobacco and other plants, stone pipes have a long storied history. These pipes are often made from soapstone, granite, or marble, which are durable, allowing your pipe to handle some rough use. These materials are also good insulators, making them great for maintaining a consistently delicious flavor profile. 

Comparing Hand Pipes

Here at DankGeek, we offer a wide range of hand pipes, unique both in style and shape. Below are some of our most popular styles:

Spoon Pipe

An OG in the game, spoon pipes are the original hand pipe. Sporting a timeless look, that of a spoon, they come equipped with a small and a shallow bowl on one end, and on the other, a slender handle. 

While most spoon pipes are made from glass, they can also be made of metal or wood, it all depends on your preference. 

Spoon pipes are classic for a reason, mainly because they’re easy to carry without drawing attention, and best of all, they’re easy to use. Get high without a hitch. 

Pros:

• Great for on-the-go use

• Comfortable to hold

• Easy to use, with a familiar carb mechanism

Cons:

• Smaller bowls may require frequent refills

• Gets  clogged quite easily

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

Sherlock Pipe

Oi, if you’re the type of bloke or lass to enjoy themselves a bit of mystery, then we’ve got the pipe for you. Named after the famous British detective, Sherlock pipes have a long, curvy shape that resembles the detective’s iconic pipe. With a large bowl and extended stem, enjoy a cooler and smoother smoking experience. Get absolutely gobsmacked the Victorian way. 

Pros:

• Larger bowl size for longer smoke sessions

• Unique design adds a touch of personality to your collection

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

Cons:

• Less portable due to its length and shape

• Difficult to clean due to the curves and corners

Gandalf Pipes

For those looking to channel their inner Middle-earth wizard, we’ve got you covered with the Gandalf pipe. It’s characterized by its long stem and dramatic highway curves, making it ideal for smokers wanting to enjoy a stroll down the shire. If you prefer a slower pace and a more meditative smoke, then this is the pipe for you. Available in glass and wood, this pipe has the makings of a magical experience. 

Pros:

• Unique design and appearance

• Longer stem allows for cooler hits

• Can provide a smoother smoking experience compared to shorter pipes

Cons:

• Less portable due to its length and shape

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

Steamroller

We won’t beat around the bush. It’s in the name. Rest assured, steamroller pipes will steamroll your tolerance and any preconceived notions you have about your smoking ability.  These 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 allows air to flow quickly through the pipe, creating a powerful rip, testing even the most experienced of smokers. 

Pros:

• Can produce a significant volume of smoke

• Direct inhalation creates a potent experience

• Easy to clean 

Cons:

•   Harsher hits, less ideal for novices

Chillum/Taster/One Hitters

Compact and stealthy, one-hitters or chillums are perfect for single-use sessions. Ask your mom, pop, heck, even your grandparents, this used to be standard smoking equipment, given to any college student, in the 90s. These pipes are a streamlined tube designed for 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

Combining the convenience of a hand pipe with the water filtration benefits of a bong, smoking engineers have provided us with bubbler pipes. It’s the best of both worlds. These bad boys use water to cool and filter smoke, leading to a milder and better-tasting hit than what you’d get from a regular dry pipe. 

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 to clean than hand pipes

Novelty Pipes

There are also novelty pipes that are just like regular pipes, except they’re not regular. They’re fun, unique, and can range from a wide variety of designs and colors. From cartoon characters to animals, to everyday objects, they are a fun addition to any collection.  

Pros:

• Creative designs add a touch of personality

• Unique and can make a good gift 

Cons:

• Novelty shapes may be difficult to clean

• Harder to use than regular pipes. 

Briar Pipes

Popular among smokers because of their ability to enhance the flavor of tobacco and greens, 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. 

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting

• Known to 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

If you’re looking for more than a pipe, more than just a smoking device, then a heady pipe is right for you. Look, to say these are pipes would be an understatement. These are unique works of art, hand-blown by skilled artists. Made from borosilicate glass, heady pipes come in various shapes and designs, using techniques to create unique colors and patterns. These pipes are functional and serve as a beautiful display item in 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 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 smoother hits while metal pipes are durable but may not provide the best flavor. It is important to consider the qualities you value the most 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 questions you need to ask yourself when considering the functionality of a hand pipe. Think about when you took your first hit, when you were part of your first rotation, what did you like about it? What did you not? Consider what you like about smoking 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 the move for you. 

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. Nobody likes a dirty pipe, so 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 smoking accessories are available on the market to enhance your 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: A handy accessory, pipe screens 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: A pipe stand is a great accessory for letting your pipe rest and cool down, keeping any tobacco or ashes from spilling out.

• Silicone mouthpiece: A silicone mouthpiece 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: The Pulsar silicon glass bowl is a replacement part 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 accessories for on-the-go use, offering a clean taste without any metallic hints.

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

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

• Hemp Wick: For a more eco-friendly and healthier lighting option, hemp wick 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 for any pipe or smoking device. The bowl specifically refers to the section of the pipe where the herb is packed. A pipe is, well — a pipe which to smoke out of, no second guessing there. 

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. 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.