How to Make a Bong

A Definitive How-to

A bong is a fascinating device. Maybe it's the signature bubbling sound. Maybe it's the display of fire and water used together to create the perfect smoke. Most smokers revere the bong as one of the most versatile smoking concepts, it's ability to cool down smoke for a smoother hit is unmatched and it's potency is only exceeded by the gravity bong.

Before I get into the science behind bongs, I'll provide instructions on how to make one of your own.

What you'll need:
A plastic soda bottle. Two liters work well. I use the one-liter bottles that tonic water comes in for the sake of portability.

Any 3/4 inch pipe. If you have an old paintball gun barrel, that's perfect. Straws won't work. Garden hose is okay if you line it with tinfoil to prevent it from being burned.

An airtight sealant. Caulk is best but tape is okay, use a lot.

Tinfoil. (If you have a piece of metal screen, that's much better)

What to do:
1.Make a vertical slit in the side of your bottle. Picture your bottle divided into thirds, from top to bottom. Your cut should be anywhere in the bottom third. Make it about the same size as the diameter of your pipe.

2.Shove your pipe into the hole you just made until one end reaches the bottom of the bottle.

3.If you have caulk, apply that liberally around where the pipe meets the bottle in order to form an airtight seal. Allow it to dry. If you're using tape, do the same. Use most, if not all of the roll. To tell if it's leaking or not, cover the outside end of your pipe and suck in through the mouth of your bottle. It's okay if it leaks a little.

4.On the end of the pipe that isn't inside the bottle, push a piece of your screen in to form a bowl. It should be at least 1/4 inch deep. Make enough room for whatever you plan to smoke. Fasten the screen to the sides with your tape. If you're using aluminum foil, do the same and poke a bunch of small holes into it.

5.Fill it halfway with water. Use the coldest water you can find, adding ice cubes helps. Snow also works well. Some people like to use koolaid or juice as you can taste it when inhaling. Don't use alcohol or any oil, because THC will dissolve in it.