Types of Percs: A Comprehensive Guide

When shopping around for bongs, you'll see that many have complex glass filtration devices. These are called "percolators" or "percs". 

Percolator bongs can elongate the air path and break down the smoke, cooling it down for a smoother smoking experience.

But which perc bongs are the best, and which should you avoid?

This blog will explore the world of percs: what they are and their benefits, the types of percs available, and factors to consider when purchasing. Let's get perc-ing!

What is a "Perc"?

A "perc," short for percolator, is an internal device inside a bong, dab rig, or bubbler meant to break apart and cool down the smoke before exiting the mouthpiece. Most percolators break down the smoke under the water level, diffusing it into smaller bubbles that can cool off faster, while others prolong the air path or actively cool down the smoke with a cold agent.

When the smoke passes through the water-filled perc, it gets filtered multiple times, creating a silky-smooth and cool hit that's simply unbeatable.

Benefits of Percolators

Here are the benefits of using perc bongs:

Smoother, Cooler Hits

Most percs create thousands of bubbles that serve as tiny cooling agents, working together to cool down the smoke more efficiently than traditional bongs.

That's why perc bongs give you incredibly smooth and refreshingly cool hits that make each drag a delightful experience.

Better Filtration

Percolators go beyond mere smoke cooling – they also provide superior filtration. Unwanted particles and impurities are filtered out as the smoke passes through the perc, leaving them behind before you inhale it.

This level of filtration and flavor enhancement is something that standard bongs simply can't match.

Different Types of Percs

Here's a handy guide for the most common types of percolators:

Tree Percs

Tree percolators, like the one in this Tree Perc Beaker Bong, are designed with multiple arms that often resemble a tree, diffusing smoke resulting in smoother hits that are easy on your lungs.

Honeycomb Percs

Imagine a honeycomb pattern, but instead of honey, it's full of tiny holes that filter your smoke. That's the honeycomb percolator – it's all about delivering exceptional filtration with a flat and simple design.

Honeycomb percs, like the one in this Blue Inset Honeycomb Perc Mini Rig, force the smoke through those holes, dividing it, cooling it, and giving you smooth hits packed with flavor.

Showerhead Percs

Showerhead percolators, like the ones in the Mini Shower Bong, consist of multiple slits or holes at the end of a vertical tube, creating a shower of bubbles as you inhale. This evenly distributes the smoke, cooling it down and resulting in incredibly smooth hits.

These are quite resilient and compact, perfect for smaller and sturdier pieces.

Inline Percs

Inline percolators are all about simplicity and efficiency. They're characterized by a horizontal tube with slits that diffuse the smoke into the water chamber, creating bubbles that cool down and filter the smoke.

Since the longer the tube, the stronger the filtration, these bongs have a unique shape to accommodate the large straight tube inside the main chamber.

Check out the Inline Barrel Recycler Rig to see an inline perc in action.

Matrix Percs

Like the one in this Tropical Matrix Cannon Dab Rig, Matrix percolators are all about maximizing filtration.

A grid of slits or small holes provides extensive surface area for the smoke to interact with the water. When properly constructed, they can effectively cool off your smoke by passing it through the thin slits to break apart as you inhale.

Spiral Percs

The twisting motion of the smoke as it travels through spiral or coil percolators elongates and stretches the air path, allowing the smoke to cool down.

Turbine Percs

Turbine percolators operate on cyclonic motion, cooling your hits with a whirlpool inside your water pipe. Although they're effective at diffusion, you might experience a bit more drag in the airflow, allowing you to smoke slower, heavier clouds.

If you're looking for a unique and stylish option, consider the Freeze Pipe Tornado – a piece that combines a spiral perc with the benefits of freezable glycerin to get icy hits.

Donut Percs

Donut percs consist of a circular tube with holes or slits that allow smoke to pass through, resulting in smooth hits that highlight the taste of your herbs.

Check out the "Inline Perc to Triple Donut Perc" Bong to see how a donut can take your smoking game up a notch.

Factors to Consider in a Percolator

To make an informed choice before buying your next percolator piece, keep the following factors in mind:

Budget

First things first, set a budget. Percolators come in various styles and price ranges. Define how much you're willing to invest in your smoking setup and stick to it.

Aesthetic

Your smoking equipment can be an extension of your style. Choose a percolator that matches your aesthetic preferences and complements your collection.

Overall Goal

Consider whether you're aiming for super-smooth hits or prioritizing the aesthetics.

Some percolators excel in cooling down smoke, while others are designed to impress with their intricate designs.

Ease of Cleaning

Complex percolators might deliver exceptional hits but can also be a hassle to clean.

If easy maintenance is a priority for you, opt for simpler percolator designs, like showerhead percs, instead of choosing more complex options, like Faberge egg and tree percs.

Compatibility

Ensure that the percolator you choose is compatible with your existing smoking setup, especially if you're going to be using it with your existing bangers, bowls, ash catchers, or other attachments.

Buy Your New Perc Bong on Daily High Club

Ready to get your next bong? Purchase your next percolator bong on Daily High Club, a headshop where you'll only find the highest-quality smoking devices and accessories to elevate your next session.