As improvements to older pipe screen types are made and newer ones are introduced, we’ve put together everything you need to know about both.
What is Even a Pipe Screen
For those that aren’t familiar with what a pipe screen is, it’s basically what stops weed from being breathed in by you. They also keep the weed in the bowl or cone where they belong, rather than in your water. I’m sure a lot of veteran cannabis users can attest to the fact that breathing in a lungful of actual weed is a horrendous feeling and leads to one hell of a coughing fit.
Bong screens are necessary because a lot of pressure is placed on the bowl (where the weed is situated). This pressure has been known to dislodge your weed and send it into the water. That’s a waste of some good weed! Especially since we’re assuming you and your buddies aren’t going to go and straight-up drink the bong water. That would be nasty!
Below we’ve put together a list of all the different types of bong and pipe screens, as well as a detailed description so you can learn all about each of them.
Brass Screens
Brass screens are the OGs of the pipe screen world. They’ve been used successfully for years, and continue to this day to be excellent options. They were originally designed for tobacco pipes, but over the years people have form-fitted them so you can use them on a bong and pipe as well. These screens are usually super cheap and can be bought from any local pot shop.
Unfortunately, brass screens do have a downside! They’ll physically degrade and melt after repeated use. Don’t worry, though, this won’t happen after your 10th time using it. More like 100th or 200th time. The reason as to why they have a shelf life is because brass has a low melting point. Although you’re not getting anywhere near the melting point of brass, the continuous application of heat breaks it down over time!
Stainless Steel Pipe Screens
Stainless steel screens are essentially the exact same as brass screens, just not as old. This option is typically a little more expensive than the brass, which is arguably due to the material being a lot tougher than brass. Steel has a much higher melting point meaning it can hold up against continuous heating much better than its predecessor.
Glass and/or Quarts Screens
Glass screens are the most durable option on this list. Glass has always been known to handle some pretty crazy heat, so the warmth from the bong won’t affect it in the slightest. Each glass screen is typically fitted for perfection. These options tend to be a little more expensive than both steel and brass, but are definitely worth it.
Keep in mind that a lot of bongs and pipes come standard with glass screens. This makes the overall unit a bit more expensive, but we believe it’s definitely worth it. Glass is by far the superior screen with respect to all three.
Should You Even Use A Pipe Screen?
Using a screen is completely up to you. With a screen, you don’t have to worry about inhaling straight up weed, whereas you’ll save a bunch of money without one. Most people try going without a screen at first and quickly come running back after their first mishap. Using a screen is indeed healthier and safer for the long run, so unless you are a social smoker or smoke weed once in a blue moon, you may choose to go with the screen.
