The Best Ways to Smoke Weed: Finding Your Perfect Method

Let’s be real—cannabis flower remains one of the most popular ways to get high, and for good reason. The ritual, the aroma, the immediate effects… there’s something deeply satisfying about smoking weed that keeps us coming back. But with so many options out there, from classic joints to high-tech vaporizers, figuring out the best way to smoke can feel overwhelming.

I’ve spent years testing different methods, talking with countless cannabis users, and researching the health impacts of various consumption techniques. What I’ve learned? There’s no single “best” way to smoke weed—it all depends on what you’re looking for.

Maybe you want something discreet for public use. Perhaps you’re concerned about your lung health (valid!). Or maybe you just want to get absolutely blasted with friends on a Friday night. Whatever your goal, this guide will help you find your perfect match.

What to Consider When Choosing How to Smoke

Before diving into specific methods, let’s talk about what factors might influence your choice:

Your Desired Effects

Different smoking methods can actually affect your high:

• Want a mellow buzz for relaxation? A one-hitter might be perfect.
• Looking to reach new heights? A bong or dab rig will get you there fast.
• Need something with precise dosing? Vape pens offer more control.

I remember my first time using a gravity bong in college—I was expecting a regular high and instead found myself contemplating the universe for what felt like days (it was about 4 hours). Knowing what you’re getting into matters!

Health Considerations

I can’t stress this enough—your lungs are precious. Research has consistently shown that inhaling any combusted material presents health risks. According to studies published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, cannabis smoke contains many of the same toxins and carcinogens as tobacco smoke, though in different quantities.

While no smoking method is completely “safe,” the health implications vary significantly:

• Combustion (burning flower) produces tar and carcinogens including benzene, toluene, and naphthalene
• Resin buildup can irritate your lungs and has been linked to potentially increase risks of respiratory issues such as chronic bronchitis and airway inflammation
• Frequent, heavy smoking may lead to chronic bronchitis symptoms including persistent cough, excess phlegm production, and wheezing

As someone who’s experienced the dreaded “smoker’s cough” firsthand, I’ve become much more conscious about filtering my smoke and exploring alternatives.

Your Budget

Let’s talk money. Some methods require a bigger upfront investment but save you cash long-term:

• One-hitters and small pipes conserve your stash
• Bongs and dab rigs cost more initially but can be more efficient
• Vaporizers are pricey upfront but often use less flower per session (studies suggest up to 30-40% more efficiency compared to smoking)

Discretion Needs

Not everyone can freely smoke wherever they want:

• Vape pens produce minimal odor and look like e-cigarettes
• One-hitters can pass for cigarettes from a distance
• Joints and blunts leave lingering smells that can be a dead giveaway

Legal Considerations: It’s worth noting that while cannabis may be legal in your state, public consumption often remains prohibited. Even in cannabis-friendly locations, discreet methods can help you avoid unwanted attention or potential legal issues.

Experience Level

Be honest about your experience. Some methods have a learning curve:

• Beginners might struggle with joints or complicated bongs
• Dabbing can overwhelm newcomers with its potency
• Simple glass pipes are generally user-friendly for cannabis newbies

The Complete Guide to Smoking Methods in 2024

One-Hitters & Chillums

Perfect for: Stealth smoking, saving money, quick solo sessions

One-hitters are my go-to for discrete smoking. These small pipes typically look like cigarettes and hold just enough weed for a single hit—hence the name.

Pros:

• Super economical (you’ll be amazed how little weed you use)
• Virtually no setup time
• Easy to conceal and use quickly
• Great for microdosing

Cons:

• Need frequent repacking if you want multiple hits
• Can get hot quickly
• Cleaning can be tedious

Health impact: While one-hitters limit your consumption per session, they provide minimal filtration. The short path from burning material to lungs means you’re getting direct exposure to combustion byproducts. However, their microdosing capability can reduce overall smoke exposure.

I keep a one-hitter in my bag for nature walks. One quick hit, and I’m good to go—no messing with rolling papers or carrying a bulky piece.

Glass Pipes (Bowls)

Perfect for: Beginners, casual smokers, easy maintenance

The classic glass pipe remains popular for good reason—it’s straightforward and effective.

Pros:

• Easy to use with minimal learning curve
• Portable enough for most situations
• Available in countless designs (I have one shaped like a mushroom that’s a conversation starter)
• Relatively affordable

Cons:

• Hits can be harsh without water filtration
• Not the most discreet option
• Can get clogged if not cleaned regularly

Health impact: Dry pipes provide no water filtration, meaning you’ll inhale more irritants compared to water-filtered methods. Regular cleaning is essential—residue buildup can harbor bacteria and mold that you’ll inhale with each hit.

Pro tip: I’ve found using a MouthPeace filter with my bowl makes a huge difference in smoothness. The first time I used one, I was shocked by how much tar it caught that would’ve gone straight into my lungs.

Joints

Perfect for: Social smoking, traditional experience, portability

There’s something almost meditative about rolling and smoking a joint. It’s cannabis consumption in its most iconic form.

Pros:

• No extra equipment needed (besides papers)
• Easy to share in social settings
• Fully disposable (no carrying around used equipment)
• Delivers a clean, pure cannabis flavor

Cons:

• Requires rolling skills (though pre-rolls are widely available)
• Less efficient—some THC literally goes up in smoke
• The smell lingers on clothes and in spaces
• Can be harsh without a filter tip

Health impact: Joints typically involve inhaling unfiltered smoke, though filter tips can reduce the amount of plant particulates that reach your lungs. Research indicates that approximately 50% of THC and other cannabinoids are lost in the sidestream smoke (the smoke that comes off the burning end), making joints less efficient while exposing you to combustion byproducts.

I’ve noticed joints tend to create a more cerebral, uplifting high compared to bongs—probably because you’re consuming more gradually rather than all at once.

Harm reduction tip: Always use unbleached, unflavored papers—preferably made from hemp, which contains fewer chemicals than wood pulp papers. Add a proper filter tip (or “crutch”) to reduce the amount of plant matter and resin you inhale. Studies show that proper filter tips can reduce tar and particulate inhalation by up to 30%.

Blunts

Perfect for: Long-lasting sessions, social smoking, flavor enhancement

Blunts are essentially cannabis cigars—weed wrapped in tobacco leaf or a tobacco-based wrap.

Pros:

• Burn slower than joints
• Hold more cannabis
• Many enjoy the added buzz from nicotine
• The tobacco leaf can add complementary flavors

Cons:

• Contains nicotine (addictive)
• Harsher on lungs due to tobacco content
• Strong smell that lingers
• Higher carbon monoxide exposure than joints

Health impact: Blunts present additional health concerns beyond standard cannabis smoking. The combination of cannabis and tobacco exposes you to nicotine (which is highly addictive) and the harmful compounds in tobacco. Research published in JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that mixing cannabis with tobacco may increase the risk of cannabis dependency and is associated with higher rates of respiratory symptoms compared to using cannabis alone. The tobacco wrap also produces more carcinogens when burned compared to standard rolling papers.

I rarely smoke blunts these days due to the tobacco content, but I won’t lie—there’s something special about passing a well-rolled blunt among friends. Just know that smoking a whole blunt is roughly equivalent to smoking six joints in terms of cannabis consumption.

Bongs & Water Pipes

Perfect for: Smoother hits, experienced users, home sessions

Bongs filter smoke through water, cooling it and removing some particulates before it reaches your lungs.

Pros:

• Water filtration makes for smoother hits
• Gets you high quickly and efficiently
• Adding ice can further cool the smoke
• Less waste compared to joints

Cons:

• Not portable or discreet
• Requires cleaning to prevent mold and bacteria
• Can lead to larger hits than intended
• Breakable (I’ve mourned many a fallen glass piece)

Health impact: While bongs do filter out some particulates and water-soluble compounds, research from the University of Texas found that water filtration removes some beneficial cannabinoids along with harmful components. The cooling effect also enables deeper, larger hits, potentially increasing tar exposure to the lungs. Most concerning from a health perspective is the potential for mold and bacteria growth in poorly maintained bongs—a 2017 study found significant microbial contamination in water pipes that weren’t cleaned at least every 3 days.

Reality check: While bongs do filter out some tar and particulates, they’re not as “healthy” as many users believe. You’re still inhaling combusted plant matter, and the smoother hit might actually encourage deeper inhalation.

Cleaning tip: Change your bong water after every session and deep clean your piece with isopropyl alcohol and salt at least weekly. Never share mouthpieces without sanitizing between users—respiratory infections can spread this way.

Bubblers

Perfect for: Bong-like experience with more portability

Think of bubblers as bongs’ smaller, more portable cousins.

Pros:

• Water filtration in a more portable package
• Smoother than dry pipes
• Often more affordable than full-sized bongs
• Easier to clean than larger pieces

Cons:

• Still breakable
• Water can spill if not handled carefully
• Smaller chamber means less filtration than full bongs
• Can be noisy (the bubbling isn’t subtle)

Health impact: Bubblers offer similar filtration benefits to bongs, though typically to a lesser degree due to their smaller water chambers. The same concerns about regular cleaning apply—perhaps even more so, as the smaller chambers can be breeding grounds for bacteria if not properly maintained.

Gravity Bongs

Perfect for: Getting extremely high, budget smoking

Gravity bongs use water and air pressure to force concentrated smoke into your lungs. They’re often homemade from plastic bottles, though commercial versions exist.

Pros:

• Delivers intense effects with minimal cannabis
• Can be made from household items
• Provides massive hits

Cons:

• Extremely harsh on the lungs
• Easy to overconsume
• Homemade versions may involve plastic, which isn’t ideal for heating
• Not for beginners or the faint of heart

Health impact: Gravity bongs, especially homemade versions, present significant health concerns. The plastic components in DIY models can release harmful chemicals when heated. Additionally, the massive volume of unfiltered smoke forced into the lungs in a single hit can cause severe irritation and potential damage to lung tissue. A 2019 case study in the Journal of Respiratory Medicine documented severe respiratory distress in a previously healthy individual following repeated gravity bong use.

I still remember my first gravity bong hit in college—I was high for what felt like 8 hours and temporarily forgot how to use stairs. Approach with caution!

Vaporizers (Dry Herb)

Perfect for: Health-conscious users, flavor enthusiasts, precise dosing

Dry herb vaporizers heat cannabis to the point where cannabinoids vaporize without combusting the plant material.

Pros:

• Significantly reduces harmful byproducts of combustion
• More efficient use of your cannabis
• Better flavor profile—you’ll taste subtle notes you miss when smoking
• Less lingering smell
• More precise temperature control

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires charging/batteries
• Different effects than smoking (some users find the high “cleaner” but less intense)
• Learning curve for optimal temperature settings

Health impact: Research published in the Harm Reduction Journal indicates that vaporizing cannabis instead of smoking it can reduce respiratory symptoms in regular users. A 2007 study found that vaporizers can reduce the intake of carbon monoxide and other toxicants compared to smoking. However, vaporizing isn’t completely risk-free—especially at higher temperatures that approach combustion (over 392°F/200°C). For maximum harm reduction, experts recommend staying between 350-390°F (175-200°C) to extract cannabinoids while minimizing the release of potentially harmful compounds.

I switched to primarily vaping flower a couple years ago, and my lungs thanked me within weeks. Morning congestion disappeared, and I found I could enjoy the subtle flavors of different strains much more.

Vape Pens (Oil/Concentrate)

Perfect for: Ultimate discretion, convenience, potency

Cannabis oil vape pens have exploded in popularity due to their convenience and stealth factor.

Pros:

• Extremely discreet and portable
• Minimal odor
• No preparation needed
• Consistent dosing
• Often very potent

Cons:

• Quality and safety vary widely between brands
• Potential health concerns with additives and cutting agents
• Higher tolerance buildup due to potency
• Removed from the natural plant experience

Health impact: The 2019 EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury) outbreak affected thousands of users and resulted in dozens of deaths. The CDC identified vitamin E acetate, used as a cutting agent in some black market products, as a primary culprit. Additional concerns include potentially harmful additives like propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, and artificial flavors. A 2020 study in JAMA Network Open found that even legal, regulated vape products can contain potentially harmful compounds formed during the heating process, including acetaldehyde and formaldehyde.

Safety note: Only purchase vape products from licensed, reputable dispensaries. Look for products that disclose full ingredients and have been tested for contaminants. Avoid products with suspicious ingredients or those that don’t provide comprehensive lab results. If possible, choose products using cannabis-derived terpenes rather than artificial flavors.

Dab Rigs

Perfect for: Experienced users seeking maximum potency, concentrate enthusiasts

Dabbing involves flash-vaporizing cannabis concentrates on a heated surface and inhaling the resulting vapor.

Pros:

• Extremely potent effects
• Efficient consumption of concentrates
• Full flavor expression
• Less plant material being inhaled

Cons:

• Complicated setup involving torches (unless using e-rigs)
• Very easy to overconsume
• High upfront cost
• Intimidating for beginners
• Rapid tolerance buildup

Health impact: Dabbing exposes users to extremely high concentrations of THC and other cannabinoids, which can lead to intense psychological effects and potentially higher risks of dependency in susceptible individuals. From a respiratory perspective, while dabbing avoids combustion, it can release harmful compounds if temperatures are too high. Research published in ACS Omega identified potential carcinogens like benzene and methacrolein produced when dabbing at excessive temperatures. Additionally, low-quality concentrates may contain residual solvents or pesticides that become concentrated in the extraction process.

I’ve seen too many people have overwhelming experiences with dabs. Start with literally a crumb-sized amount if you’re new to concentrates.

Temperature tip: For safer dabbing, aim for lower temperatures (around 350-400°F/175-205°C) rather than red-hot surfaces. “Low-temp dabbing” not only reduces potential exposure to harmful compounds but also preserves terpenes for better flavor. Consider using an e-nail or e-rig that allows precise temperature control.

Finding Your Perfect Match: Recommendations Based on Needs

Best for Beginners

If you’re new to cannabis, start simple:

• Glass pipe or bowl: Easy to use, affordable, and straightforward
• Pre-rolled joints: No rolling skills required
• Dry herb vaporizer: Gentler effects and easier on the lungs

Dosage tip for beginners: Start with just one small inhalation and wait 15 minutes to assess effects before considering more. New users are particularly susceptible to anxiety and discomfort from overconsumption. Remember the classic advice: “You can always take more, but you can’t take less.”

Avoid gravity bongs, dab rigs, or complicated setups until you understand how cannabis affects you.

Best for Discretion

Need to keep things on the down-low?

• Vape pens: Minimal odor and looks like nicotine vaping
• One-hitters: Quick, minimal smoke, and cigarette-like appearance
• Portable dry herb vaporizers: Less smell than combustion methods

I’ve used a vape pen at outdoor concerts without anyone giving me a second glance—they’re practically invisible in public.

Odor management tip: For additional discretion, consider using a smoke filter like a Sploofy or Smoke Buddy, which uses activated carbon to neutralize exhaled smoke odor. Changing clothes after smoking and using odor-eliminating sprays can also help minimize lingering cannabis smell.

Best for Lung Health

While no smoking method is truly “healthy,” these options reduce harm:

• Dry herb vaporizer: Eliminates combustion while still using flower
• Using a MouthPeace filter: Catches tar and particulates with any smoking method
• Bong with clean, frequently changed water: Filters out some particulates
• Consider edibles or tinctures: Eliminate inhalation entirely

Research insight: A 2010 study in the International Journal of Drug Policy found that vaporizing cannabis showed “meaningful improvements in respiratory function” among participants who switched from smoking to vaporizing. Another study published in the Harm Reduction Journal indicated that water filtration can remove some cytotoxic compounds found in cannabis smoke.

Best for Saving Money

Stretching your stash?

• One-hitters: Use tiny amounts effectively
• Dry herb vaporizer: More efficient extraction of THC
• Gravity bong: Gets maximum effect from minimal flower (though harsh)

Budget tip: Consider saving your already-vaped bud (AVB) from dry herb vaporizers. This partially decarboxylated material can be used to make edibles, tinctures, or even smoked in a pinch, essentially giving you two uses from the same material.

I was amazed how much longer my stash lasted after switching to a one-hitter for weekday use.

Best for Social Sessions

Sharing with friends?

• Joints or blunts: Classic passing experience
• Bong with personal mouthpieces: Communal but hygienic
• Vaporizer with disposable mouthpieces: Modern solution for health-conscious groups

Hygiene warning: Sharing smoking devices without proper cleaning or personal mouthpieces can transmit infections including cold sores, strep throat, and other respiratory illnesses. During cold and flu season, consider individual consumption methods or strict sanitization between users.

Harm Reduction Tips (If You Choose to Smoke)

After years covering cannabis consumption, I’ve gathered these tips to reduce risks:

1. Don’t hold smoke in deeply or for long periods. Most THC is absorbed within seconds—holding longer just damages your lungs.
2. Use quality papers if rolling—unbleached, unflavored, and thin. Hemp papers are generally preferable to wood pulp papers due to fewer chemicals.
3. Keep your equipment clean. Bacteria and mold love dirty bongs and pipes. Use 91-99% isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt for effective cleaning, and change bong water after every session.
4. Consider using a filter like MouthPeace, which catches surprising amounts of tar.
5. Take smaller hits. Massive rips aren’t more effective, just harsher on your lungs.
6. Stay hydrated before, during, and after smoking.
7. If sharing, use personal mouthpieces or at least wipe down shared surfaces with alcohol.
8. Give your lungs breaks. Regular “tolerance breaks” benefit both your high and your respiratory health. Research suggests even a 48-hour break can significantly reduce respiratory symptoms in regular smokers.

9. Consider proper inhalation technique. Draw the smoke/vapor into your mouth first, then inhale to the lungs with fresh air, rather than direct lung hits which can be harsher and potentially more damaging.
   
10. Monitor your consumption patterns. Keep track of how much and how frequently you’re consuming. If you notice increasing consumption to achieve the same effects, it may be time for a tolerance break.
    

Beyond Smoking: Alternative Consumption Methods

If you’re concerned about lung health, consider these smoke-free options:

Edibles

Cannabis-infused foods and beverages offer a completely different experience than smoking:

Pros:

• No respiratory risks
• Longer-lasting effects (6-8 hours compared to 2-3 hours when smoking)
• Can be precisely dosed once you understand your tolerance
• Discreet consumption

Cons:

• Slow onset (30 minutes to 2 hours) makes proper dosing challenging
• Stronger and potentially overwhelming effects for inexperienced users
• More pronounced psychoactive effects that can feel more intense
• Difficult to “undo” if you consume too much

Dosage tip: Start with 2-5mg of THC for beginners, and wait at least 2 hours before considering more. Pre-made edibles from dispensaries offer consistent dosing, while homemade options can vary dramatically in potency.

Tinctures

Alcohol or oil-based extracts taken under the tongue:

Pros:

• Faster onset than edibles (15-45 minutes)
• Easy to control dosage with droppers
• Discreet consumption
• No respiratory risks
• Can be added to foods or beverages

Cons:

• Effects not as immediate as smoking
• Alcohol-based tinctures may have a strong taste
• Can be expensive compared to smoking
• May irritate sensitive tissues under the tongue

Application tip: Hold the liquid under your tongue for 60-90 seconds before swallowing for faster, more efficient absorption through the sublingual blood vessels.

Topicals

Cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and patches applied to the skin:

Pros:

• Target specific areas for localized relief
• Non-intoxicating (most don’t reach bloodstream)
• No respiratory risks
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Limited to localized effects in most cases
• Not suitable for treating systemic issues
• Can be expensive
• May contain allergens or irritants for sensitive skin

Usage tip: Transdermal patches, unlike standard topicals, can deliver cannabinoids to the bloodstream and may produce psychoactive effects.

Capsules

Pre-dosed cannabis pills taken orally:

Pros:

• Precise, consistent dosing
• No smoke, odor, or taste
• Familiar medication format
• Discreet

Cons:

• Slow onset similar to edibles
• Limited product variety
• Can be expensive
• Effects can be strong and long-lasting

Timing tip: Try taking cannabis capsules with a small snack that includes some fat, as cannabinoids are fat-soluble and may be better absorbed with some dietary fat.

The Bottom Line

After trying virtually every consumption method out there, I’ve learned there’s no universal “best” way to smoke weed—just the best method for your specific situation.

These days, I primarily use a dry herb vaporizer with occasional joints for social settings. I always use a MouthPeace filter when smoking, and I take regular breaks to keep my lungs happy and my tolerance in check.

Whatever method you choose, start low and go slow, especially when trying something new. Listen to your body, be mindful of your consumption, and remember that the best high is one that enhances your experience without negative side effects.

While cannabis offers many benefits and pleasures for millions of users, it’s important to acknowledge that any form of smoke or vapor inhalation carries some risk. Being informed about these risks allows you to make choices that align with your personal health priorities and lifestyle needs.

What’s your go-to smoking method? Has it changed over time? Do you have any personal harm reduction techniques that have worked well for you? Share your experiences in the comments below—your insights might help others find their ideal consumption method!