#5: The Glass-Eyed Guide to Accessories: 18 Essential Tools for the Ultimate Cannabis Experience
#5: The Glass-Eyed Guide to Accessories: 18 Essential Tools for the Ultimate Cannabis Experience
When pot smokers wanted to get high back in the day, they were limited to a few options: papers, pipes, bongs, and blunts. Head shops were few and far between and were often stocked with subpar products. Don't even get us started on the selection (or lack thereof) at your local gas station! So when cannabis legalization took hold in Canada and many US states, the demand for high-quality smoking accessories skyrocketed. This interest led to the development of thousands of new products, from simple pipes to sophisticated bongs with percolators.
Nowadays, there are cannabis accessories for every type of smoker, from the novice to the experienced connoisseur. The choices are endless, which can be overwhelming for anyone who isn't an expert. Even if you're a seasoned smoker, keeping up with the latest and greatest products can be a challenge. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to 18 essential cannabis accessories that will help you make the most of your cannabis experience. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right accessory for you. So whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you find the perfect accessory for your needs. Let’s get started!
Dry herb vaporizers
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to smoking, a dry herb vaporizer is a great option. These devices use convection heating to convert your cannabis flower into vapour, which you then inhale. This method of consumption is much gentler on your lungs than smoking, and it also allows you to enjoy the full flavour of your cannabis.
There are two types of dry herb vaporizers: portable and desktop. Portable vaporizers are small, discreet, and easy to use on the go. They’re powered by batteries, so you’ll need to recharge them regularly. Desktop vaporizers are larger and must be plugged into an outlet, but they offer more features and better performance than their portable counterparts. Health Canada-approved vaporizers such as the Volcano and the DaVinci IQ2 are tried-and-true favourites, but there are also many new and innovative options on the market.
Vape pens
When vape pens first emerged in the early 2010s, they were a game-changer for the cannabis industry. These small, pen-shaped devices revolutionized the way people consumed cannabis, making it easier and more discreet than ever before. Vape pens typically consist of three parts: a battery, a vape cartridge filled with cannabis oil, and a mouthpiece. To use a vape pen, you simply screw the cartridge into the battery, press the button to heat the element, and inhale.
If you're going to use a vape pen, be sure to buy one that's compatible with the type of cannabis cartridge you want to use. The majority of cannabis vape cartridges are 510-threaded, which means they'll fit any 510-threaded vape pen battery. But some proprietary cartridges can only be used with specific batteries, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase.
Pipes
With a history dating back over 3,000 years, the pipe is perhaps the most classic of all smoking devices. Ancient discoveries of pipes made from clay, bone, and even metal suggest that humans have been smoking for millennia. A simple device, a pipe typically consists of a bowl, stem, and mouthpiece. They are a great option for those who are looking for a simple way to smoke their cannabis. Just pack your bowl and light it up!
Pipes are available in a wide range of materials, including glass, metal, wood, and even silicone. Glass pipes are the most popular option, as they are easy to clean and do not affect the taste of your cannabis. Make sure to consider the size of the pipe when making a purchase decision -larger pipes offer better airflow and allow you to pack more cannabis in the bowl. But if you're looking for a discreet smoking option, a smaller pipe may be the way ideal.
Rolling papers
In the early 1400's, Christopher Columbus and his crew landed in the Americas and discovered native Cubans wrapping tobacco in large leaves. They brought this new discovery back to Europe, where it quickly became popular. Fast forward to today, and rolling paper is now an essential part of the cannabis experience. Used to roll joints, blunts, and spliffs, rolling paper is available in a variety of materials, including hemp, rice, and even bamboo.
If you're new to rolling, start with a basic hemp rolling paper. These papers are easy to work with and offer a natural, clean-tasting smoke. If you're looking for something a little different, try a rice rolling paper. These papers are thinner than hemp papers and offer a smooth, slow burn. For those who want an even slower burn, bamboo rolling papers are the way to go. These papers are made from 100% bamboo and offer an ultra-slow, smooth smoke.
Bubblers
What's the best way to combine the portability of a pipe with the smooth hits of a bong? A bubbler! Bubblers are small water pipes that offer filtered, smooth hits in a compact package. Just like bongs, bubblers use water to percolate the smoke and deliver smooth, tasty hits. But because they're smaller, they're more portable and easier to use on the go.
When choosing a bubbler, it's important to consider the material. Borosilicate glass is the most popular material, as it can withstand high temperatures and is easy to clean. Other popular materials include acrylic and silicone. Straight-tube bubblers are simple and easy to use, while beaker-shaped bubblers provide more stability. Make sure to also consider the size of the bubbler when making your purchase - larger bubblers offer better filtration and allow you to pack more cannabis in the bowl.
Dugouts
Enjoying a quick smoke on the go? Then a dugout is the perfect option for you. A small, compact device, a dugout consists of two parts: a storage compartment (usually made from wood or metal) and a one-hitter pipe. The one-hitter pipe is usually stored in the lid of the dugout, making it easy to access when you're ready to smoke. All you need to do is pack your cannabis in the bowl and light it up!
Dugouts are available in a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, and glass. Wood dugouts are the most popular option, as they offer a classic look and feel. But if you're looking for a more durable dugout that's easy to clean, a metal or glass dugout may be the way to go. Make sure to choose a dugout that's the right size for you - larger dugouts offer more storage space, while smaller dugouts are more discreet and easy to carry on the go.
Bats
Another baseball-inspired cannabis accessory, bats are small, thin pipes that are designed to look like cigarettes. Bats are typically made of metal or glass and have a bowl for holding your cannabis at one end and a mouthpiece at the other. Some bats also have a filter to help cool the smoke and make for a smoother hit. A great option for those who want to enjoy a quick smoke on the go, bats are easy to use and can be stored in your pocket or purse for discreet smoking.
When deciding on a bat, it's important to consider the material. Metal bats are the most popular option, as they are durable and easy to clean. Glass bats are also popular, but they are more fragile and can be difficult to clean. Another thing to consider is the size of the bat - larger bats will have a bigger bowl, making them better for sharing, while smaller bats are easier to carry and conceal.
Grinders
Long a staple of the cannabis community, grinders are one of the most essential tools for those who want to enjoy a smooth smoking experience. Grinders come in a variety of sizes and styles, but they all serve the same purpose - to break down your cannabis into smaller pieces so that it can be more evenly burned.
When choosing a grinder, you'll want to consider the material it is made of. Aluminum grinders are the most popular option, as they are lightweight and easy to clean. Stainless steel grinders are more expensive, but they are more durable and offer a better grinding experience. Plastic grinders are not as durable, but they are less expensive and do a pretty good job of grinding cannabis.
Dab rigs
Looking for the ultimate cannabis experience? Then a dab rig may be right for you. Dab rigs are specialized water pipes designed for smoking cannabis concentrates. Dabbing involves heating a small amount of concentrate on a “dab nail” and inhaling the vapour through the rig. Dabbing delivers a more potent hit than other methods of consumption, so it's not for the faint of heart. But if you're looking for a powerful smoking experience, dabbing is the way to go.
When choosing a dab rig, it's important to consider the size, shape, and material of the rig. Borosilicate glass is the most widely used material for dab rigs, as it can withstand high temperatures and is easy to clean. Quartz and ceramic rigs are also popular options. As for size, larger rigs offer better airflow and allow more vapour to be produced. But if you're looking for a rig that's easy to transport, a smaller rig may be the way to go.
Dab nails and bangers
A dab nail (sometimes called a banger) is a small, bowl-shaped piece of metal, ceramic, or quartz that fits onto a dab rig. The nail is heated to a high temperature using a torch, and then the concentrate is placed on the nail and inhaled through the rig. If you're interested in dabbing, you'll need a dab nail that's compatible with your rig.
The most popular materials for dab nails are quartz, ceramic, and titanium. Quartz is popular because it can withstand high temperatures and provide excellent flavour. Titanium nails are also a good choice because they heat up quickly and retain heat well. Ceramic nails are a good option for those who want to enjoy the full flavour of their concentrates. As for size, 14mm and 18mm nails are the most common sizes and will fit most dab rigs.
E-Nails
An electronic nail, or e-nail, is a device that is used to heat up a banger nail or dab rig so that you can enjoy your cannabis concentrates at the perfect temperature. E-nails offer a more consistent and controlled dabbing experience than traditional torches, and they also allow you to save your favourite temperature settings for future use. If you're a daily dabber, an e-nail is a great investment that will help you get the most out of your concentrates.
When choosing an e-nail, it's important to consider the type of banger nail or dab rig you're using. Some e-nails are designed for specific types of nails, so make sure to choose one that is compatible with your nail. You'll also want to consider the size of the e-nail and the power output. If you're looking for an e-nail that is easy to travel with, choose a smaller, portable e-nail. For a more powerful e-nail that can heat up your nail quickly, choose one with a higher wattage.
Rolling trays
When it comes to rolling cannabis, a little planning and preparation can go a long way. A rolling tray is a perfect tool for those who want to roll their own joints, as it provides a flat surface for one to work on. Rolling trays also have raised edges to help keep your cannabis from falling off the edge.
Rolling trays come in a variety of sizes, so you'll want to choose one that is big enough to accommodate all of your materials. You'll also want to consider the material of the tray. Metal, wood, or plastic trays are all popular options, so whatever you choose, make sure it's durable and easy to clean.
Bongs
First used by the Hmong in Laos and Thailand, as well as over Africa, bongs have been a staple of cannabis culture for centuries. These water pipes use a bowl, downstem, and mouthpiece to deliver smooth, filtered hits of cannabis smoke. The addition of water acts as a percolator, breaking up the smoke into smaller bubbles for an even smoother hit. This makes bongs a great option for those who are looking for a smooth smoking experience.
When selecting a bong, make sure to consider the size, shape, and material. Smaller bongs are more compact and easier to use on the go, while larger bongs offer bigger hits. Bongs can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, acrylic, ceramic, and even bamboo. Glass bongs are the most popular option, as they offer the best filtration and do not affect the taste of your cannabis. But if you're looking for a durable bong that's easy to clean, an acrylic bong may be the way to go.
Carb caps
If you're using a banger nail or dab rig, you'll need a carb cap to help you control the airflow and get the most out of your concentrates. Carb caps are small lids that fit over the top of your banger nail or dab rig. By placing a carb cap over your nail, you can restrict the airflow and create a more efficient dab. This allows you to vaporize your concentrates at a lower temperature, which can help preserve the flavour and potency of your concentrates.
There are a variety of carb caps to choose from, including those made of glass, metal, or ceramic. Glass carb caps are the most popular option, as they offer excellent heat retention and can be easily cleaned. Metal carb caps are also popular, but they are not as effective at retaining heat. Ceramic carb caps are a good option for those who want a carb cap that is both effective and easy to clean.
Terp pearls
Also known as “dab pearls” or “banger beads,” terp pearls are small balls of quartz or other heat-resistant material that are placed in the bottom of a banger nail or dab rig. Terp pearls are placed in the banger to help evenly distribute heat, resulting in a more efficient and effective dabbing experience. Dabbers love terp pearls because they help to maximize the flavour and potency of their dabs.
Terp pearls are available in a wide range of materials, including quartz, ceramic, and glass. Quartz is the most popular material for terp pearls, as it is an excellent heat conductor and is very durable. Ceramic and glass are also popular options, but they are not as effective at evenly distributing heat. They come in varying shapes and sizes, so make sure to choose the right one for your banger nail or dab rig.
Glass cleaner
Keeping your dab rig or bong clean is essential for a good smoking experience. Glass cleaner is specially formulated to clean glass without damaging it, and it can be used on both rigs and bongs. When cleaning your rigs and bongs, be sure to use a soft cloth or brush to avoid scratching the glass.
There are many different brands of glass cleaners available, so choose one that is designed for use on bongs and rigs. Avoid using general household cleaners, as these can be harmful to your health.
Dab mats
An essential tool for any dabber, a dab mat is a small, flat mat that is used to protect your surfaces from heat and spills. Placed underneath your dab rig, a dab mat helps to prevent your furniture from being damaged by the heat of the nail. Dab mats also catch any spills or drips, making for an easier clean-up, and can help to keep your concentrates from sticking to your surfaces.
When choosing a dab mat, look for one that is made of heat-resistant material and that is big enough to catch any drips or spills. Silicone mats are a popular option, as they are easy to clean and can be rolled up for easy storage. Stay away from mats made of plastic or vinyl, as these materials can melt when exposed to heat.
Stash cases
Keeping your stash of cannabis safe, secure, and out of sight is important for a variety of reasons. For that reason, a stash case is an essential accessory for any cannabis user. They offer a safe and discreet way to store your cannabis, and many are equipped with features like lockable lids and airtight seals to keep your stash fresh.
Stash cases come in a variety of sizes, so you'll want to choose one that is big enough to hold all of your cannabis. On the go? Look for a stash case that is small and easy to carry that can fit in your pocket or purse. At home? A desktop solution may be more your style.
In brief
As the cannabis industry has grown, so too has the market for cannabis accessories. There are now more tools and products available than ever before to help you make the most of your cannabis experience. From dab rigs and bongs to stash cases and glass cleaners, these 18 essential accessories will get you started and on your way to enjoying your cannabis to the fullest.
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