How to Make an Apple Bong

Apple bongs are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional smoking tools like pipes or rolling papers. An easy-to-complete DIY project, apple pipes transform a standard piece of fruit into a functional, creative, and fun smoking device. 

What Is an Apple Bong?

An apple bong is a DIY smoking device made from an ordinary apple. The fruit serves as the pipe and bowl, creating a smoking device without using traditional elements like glass pipes or rolling papers. Carving a tunnel into the apple creates the necessary airflow for smoking. 

This concept has been around for decades, often used when typical smoking tools are unavailable or whenever someone wants a twist on the traditional smoking experience.

Why Make an Apple Bong?

Smoking out of an apple offers several benefits that have helped sustain its small popularity over the years.

• Cost-Effective: Apple bongs are fun, effective, and affordable. Since most households already have apples and the essential tools required, creating this pipe is little to no cost.
• Eco-Friendly: Apples are biodegradable, offering a sustainable alternative to other single-use smoking products, like disposable vapes. Once the smoke session is complete, the apple can be discarded or composted, minimizing waste.
• Flavor Addition: Apple pipes can provide a mild fruity flavor that varies depending on the type of apple used. This natural flavor injection offers a pleasant change from the standard aromas and flavors produced by cannabis strains. 
• Novelty and Entertainment: Apple bowls are often made for the fun of creating a device out of fruit. Plus, they make a great visual or photo opportunity. 

Drawbacks of Using an Apple Bong

While apple bongs offer many advantages, they may not be ideal in every situation. Some of the potential drawbacks include:

• Not Very Durable: Apple bowls are best suited for single-use or short-term sessions. Because they are made from fruit, they naturally degrade after one or two days.
• Limited Airflow Control: Unlike classic bongs, where airflow is a primary design focus, apple bongs lack this precision. While airflow remains a significant factor in their functionality, apple pipes do not offer the same level of sophistication as glass or other materials.
• Potential Mess: Although firmer apples generally hold up better, they can still create a mess during use. Additionally, apples can deteriorate quickly, increasing the chances of encountering sticky, degraded fruit mid-session.
• Allergies: Anyone with apple or fruit allergies may develop an adverse reaction when interacting with any substance they are allergic to. 

What You Need to Make an Apple Bong

Making an apple bong is relatively simple once the materials have been gathered.

• Apple: A large, firm apple is best for maintaining structure during the process. Use a Granny Smith or Fuji apple whenever possible. 
• Pen, pencil, or screwdriver: These tools create the necessary air channel inside the apple, allowing the smoke to flow through.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting out the apple's stem and creating a bowl for the cannabis to be placed. A smaller knife is preferable for this task, as it reduces the risk of cutting away too much of the apple.
• Cannabis and grinder: Select your preferred cannabis strain and grind it into a fine flower.

How to Make an Apple Bong

1. Remove the Stem: Start by removing the apple's stem with a knife or the end of a pen. Carve out a small area where the stem was, making sure not to puncture too deep into the apple. The small hole at the top will serve as the bowl where the ground cannabis will be placed.
2. Make the Carb: Poke a hole into the side of the apple, perpendicular to the bowl. This hole serves as the carb, which helps control the airflow. Double-check that the hole intersects with the bowl so that smoke can effectively travel through the piece.
3. Create the Mouthpiece: A pen or screwdriver works best to carefully create this air pathway. When complete, a tunnel should connect the carb and bowl, with the end of the tunnel acting as the mouthpiece. 
4. Testing the Airflow: Before packing the apple bowl, test the airflow by covering the carb hole and inhaling through the mouthpiece. This test should resemble the method used to check airflow in a classic bong. If experiencing any airflow issues, adjust the hole sizes and ensure the tunnel is fully intact.
5. Packing and Lighting: Once the airflow is ideal, pack the ground cannabis into the bowl at the top of the apple. Light the ground flower while covering the carb, like any other bong type, and inhale when ready. 

Alternatives to an Apple Bong

Additional fruits can be used to create temporary fruit bongs. Popular alternatives include:

• Pineapples
• Melons
• Coconuts
• Mangoes
• Pumpkins

Each fruit offers a unique experience. However, like apple bongs, these fruit-based options are also intended for short-term use as they will spoil in a few days. For prolonged smoking enjoyment, glass or silicone bongs are recommended. These materials are durable, long-lasting, relatively easy to clean, and provide a more consistent smoking experience without altering the flavor of the cannabis.

Are there any apple strains I should try with my apple bong?

For those looking to pair an apple bong with a similarly fruity strain, consider trying Sour Apple, Apple Jacks, and Apple Fritter.

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.