Beaker Bong
A beaker bong is shaped like laboratory glassware — a wide base that tapers up to a narrower neck. The broad base creates stability while accommodating generous water volume for enhanced filtration.
Key features:
- Wide base provides exceptional stability
- Large chamber holds more water for enhanced filtration
- More room for vapor to cool before reaching you
- Compatible with ice catches and percolators
- Classic aesthetic that works with various styles
That broad base creates a low center of gravity, making the piece stable during use and when passing it around. The wide base also accommodates more water than straight tubes of similar height — and more water means more filtration and cooler draws.
The large chamber volume allows vapor to expand and cool before reaching you. As it bubbles through the water, particulates are filtered while heat dissipates. Many beakers include additional features, such as ice catches (pinched sections that hold ice cubes in the neck) or percolators (extra water chambers that create smaller bubbles for increased filtration).
Glass quality determines both durability and experience. Quality beakers are made from borosilicate glass — the same heat-resistant material used in laboratory equipment — which handles temperature changes well and resists breakage. Thicker glass (5 mm or more) adds durability and stability, albeit at the expense of additional weight and cost. Your downstem design also affects the draw; diffused downstems with multiple small holes create finer bubbles and smoother draws.
What works with beakers: Beakers use a bowl (also called a slide) that matches the joint size — typically 14 mm or 18 mm. The slide is where you pack your flower, and it slides into the downstem. You can swap slide fittings for different sizes or styles depending on your preferences. An ash catcher can attach between the slide and downstem to keep your beaker cleaner between sessions. Some people add percolator attachments for additional filtration. The removable downstem simplifies maintenance. You can clean or replace it independently when needed.