Welcome, discerning smoker! You’ve stumbled upon our little quiz – a comprehensive test of your knowledge regarding the world of Cheap bongs. Let’s face it, everyone loves a good deal, and the world of water pipes is no different. But knowing *which* deals are good, and how to navigate the landscape of materials, functionality, and potential pitfalls, is a skill in itself. This quiz is designed to challenge your assumptions and refine your understanding. We’ll be covering everything from glass thickness to filtration methods, all focused on the realm of budget-friendly options. So, grab a pen (or your preferred digital note-taking device), and let’s see just how bong-savvy you truly are!
Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question. At the end, your score will be tallied, and you’ll be assigned a competency level – Novice, Intermediate, or Expert. Good luck!
1. What is the most common material used in *cheap* bongs, and why?
a) Borosilicate Glass: Known for its heat resistance and durability.
b) Acrylic: A less expensive plastic option.
c) Quartz: Extremely durable and resistant to cracking, but pricier.
d) Pyrex Glass: A specialized type of borosilicate.
2. Why is glass thickness a crucial factor to consider when buying a bong?
a) Thicker glass always means better filtration.
b) Thicker glass is less likely to crack or break under heat and pressure.
c) Thicker glass makes the bong heavier and easier to hold.
d) Thicker glass looks more aesthetically pleasing.
3. What does “perc” stand for in the context of bongs?
a) Percentage of filtration efficiency.
b) Percussion – referring to the sound the water makes.
c) Percolator – a chamber that increases surface area for better filtration.
d) Pressure regulator.
4. Which of the following best describes why a showerhead perc is considered a “high filtration” option?
a) It uses more water.
b) It diffuses smoke into smaller bubbles, cooling it and creating a smoother hit.
c) It requires a specialized water filtration system.
d) It adds a unique visual effect.
5. What is the primary advantage of a straight-tube bong over a more complex design (like one with multiple percs)?
a) Superior filtration.
b) Easier to clean.
c) More visually appealing.
d) Enhanced cooling of the smoke.
6. Why is the joint size of a bong important?
a) It affects the bong’s color.
b) It determines the type of downstems and bowls that can be used with it.
c) It influences the bong’s overall weight.
d) It dictates the bong’s stability.
7. What is the difference between a male and a female joint?
a) Male joints are used for downstems; female joints are for bowls.
b) Male joints have grooves on the outside; female joints have grooves on the inside.
c) Male joints are typically smaller than female joints.
d) They’re interchangeable and have no functional difference.
8. What is the purpose of a diffuser?
a) To heat the water.
b) To filter the water.
c) To cool and diffuse the smoke, creating a smoother hit.
d) To add flavor to the smoke.
9. Which of the following is a potential disadvantage of acrylic bongs?
a) They are generally more durable than glass bongs.
b) They don’t retain odors or stains as easily.
c) They can melt or warp with excessive heat, and may leach chemicals.
d) They are always more affordable than glass bongs.
10. What’s the significance of borosilicate glass (often referred to as “boro”) in bongs?
a) It’s cheaper than standard glass.
b) It’s known for its superior heat resistance and ability to withstand thermal shock.
c) It has a unique, iridescent color.
d) It’s easier to shape and mold.
11. Why is regular cleaning essential for any water pipe, regardless of price?
a) To maintain the bong’s aesthetic appeal.
b) To ensure optimal filtration and prevent the build-up of harmful residue.
c) To prevent the bong from becoming too heavy.
d) To improve the bong’s performance in extreme temperatures.
12. What is a “beryllium” bowl (or stem)?
a) A bowl made with a special blend of herbs.
b) A bowl made with a shimmering blue-green glass.
c) A bowl specifically designed for extremely high temperatures.
d) A bowl made of plastic (not recommended).
13. You’re looking for a cheap bong with good airflow. Which feature should you prioritize?
a) Multiple percolators.
b) A wide downstem.
c) Thick glass.
d) An elaborate design.
14. Why might a “showerhead perc” bong require more frequent cleaning compared to a straight-tube bong?
a) Showerhead percs are inherently dirtier.
b) The increased surface area means more residue can build up.
c) Showerhead percs require specialized cleaning solutions.
d) Showerhead percs release more harmful chemicals.
15. You find a bong labeled “heat resistant” but it’s significantly cheaper than others. What should you be cautious about?
a) The design might be unstable.
b) The material may not actually be heat-resistant and could be a cheaper substitute.
c) The color might fade quickly.
d) The bong might be too heavy.
Answer Key & Scoring:
1. b) Acrylic – Primarily for cost savings.
2. b) Thicker glass is less likely to crack or break.
3. c) Percolator – a chamber that increases surface area for better filtration.
4. b) It diffuses smoke into smaller bubbles, cooling it and creating a smoother hit.
5. b) Easier to clean.
6. b) It determines the type of downstems and bowls that can be used with it.
7. b) Male joints have grooves on the outside; female joints have grooves on the inside.
8. c) To cool and diffuse the smoke, creating a smoother hit.
9. c) They can melt or warp with excessive heat, and may leach chemicals.
10. b) It’s known for its superior heat resistance and ability to withstand thermal shock.
11. b) To ensure optimal filtration and prevent the build-up of harmful residue.
12. b) A bowl made with a shimmering blue-green glass.
13. b) A wide downstem.
14. b) The increased surface area means more residue can build up.
15. b) The material may not actually be heat-resistant and could be a cheaper substitute.
Scoring & Competency Levels:
* 0-5 Points: Novice – The Budding Smoker: You’re just starting your journey into the world of bongs! Don’t worry, everyone begins somewhere. Focus on understanding the basics of materials, joint sizes, and filtration. There’s a whole universe of knowledge awaiting!
* 6-10 Points: Intermediate – The Savvy Shopper: You’ve got a decent grasp of the key elements when selecting a bong. You understand the importance of glass thickness and filtration, and you’re aware of the potential pitfalls of cheaper materials. Keep learning and experimenting!
* 11-15 Points: Expert – The Bong Connoisseur: You’re a true expert in the realm of affordable bongs! You understand the nuances of materials, filtration, and design, and you’ve likely got a keen eye for spotting a good deal. Keep your knowledge sharp, and happy smoking!
