Choosing Your Next Handpipe

Choosing Your Next Handpipe

by Jacee Niblett - January 14, 2025

A smoke collection isn’t truly complete without a trusty handpipe (or two) in the mix. These compact, versatile pieces are the unsung heroes of any smoker’s toolkit. Whether you’re gearing up for a quick solo session, passing it around during a group hangout, or packing it for an on-the-go adventure, handpipes are the epitome of convenience and style. They offer amazing function, but also an opportunity to showcase your unique personality and preferences.
From sleek and minimalist designs to bold and colorful statement pieces, handpipes bring variety to your collection. With so many options out there, finding the perfect one is all about knowing what fits your vibe and elevates your current collection, or maybe even starts it.
So if you’re ready to add something new to your shelf, let’s explore some elements of the piece you should take into consideration when shopping!

Consider size and loadability

The general size of your pipe is something you’ll want to think about when shopping. While handpipes in nature are going to be generally smaller than something like a bubbler or water pipe - there is still size variation between hand pipes. If you need something really concealable, or something to carry around with you frequently, you’ll want to opt for something on the smaller side.

In the same vein, fill capacity is something that might not cross your mind initially, but don’t forget about it! If you’re someone who loads their pipes to the brim, you might want something like this pipe from Higher Standards which has a larger fillable head piece.

Shop the Higher Standards Heavy Duty Spoon Pipe

Consider different styles

Just like waterpipes, there is also so much variation in handpipe styles. From the classic spoon shape, to steamrollers, sherlocks, gandalfs and beyond. There’s so many different shapes and styles to choose from and depending on your preference, one might work better for you.

Take this Gandalfini pipe from Grav - with its extra elongated stem and sherlock style head, you get a really unique style and the functionality of a cool-off effect as the smoke goes through its long journey from pipe to mouth. Keep in mind, while very cool - this style might not work best for someone frequently on the go. But if it’s a style that speaks to you, you should give it a go!

Shop the GRAV® Gandalfini 6" Sherlock Hand Pipe

Consider your own personal flare

Finally, one of the most important aspects of choosing a new piece, no matter the tool, is your own personal style. The beautiful thing about smoke products is how unique, personable, and artistic they are. You can get really creative with glass!

Something like the Buxom Body piece speaks to me personally, and when you know - you know. So make sure to keep a creative eye when shopping, and take your time choosing something that fits your personality and artistic preferences. In the world of glass, you’re sure to find something that fits.

Shop the Buxom Body 4.25" Glycerin Glass Hand Pipe

When you take size, style, and aesthetic into consideration, you’re well on your way to finding the right pipe for you. Whether you’re drawn to something compact and discreet, bold and eye-catching, or somewhere in between, the right handpipe can add so much to your collection and reflect your personal vibe.

Like with most smoking tools, it’s all about finding that balance between functionality and unique personality. So take your time, explore your options, and discover a handpipe that feels like it was made just for you.