Ditch the Stock Martini Slide, and Upgrade Your Setup
If you’ve recently acquired a new bong, chances are it came equipped with a standard clear martini pull slide—the classic funnel-shaped bowl that’s wide at the top and tapers down like a cocktail glass. While it’s a reliable starter piece that will get your first session started just minutes after you unwrap your new glass, this slide is often included solely for its simplicity and low cost. It will do the job, but it’s probably time to consider ditching it for something better. Stock martini slides are typically made from thin glass, with poor welds that are prone to breaking. They also lack built-in features like screens to prevent ash pull-through, and can be tricky to grip when hot, leading to uneven burns or messy sessions. Upgrading your pull slide not only enhances durability and ease of use but also improves flavor, airflow, and overall smoking efficiency, transforming your bong from basic to exceptional.
One popular upgrade is the horn pull slide, which features a curved or swirled horn handle for effortless removal. Unlike the flat or minimal grip on a stock martini slide, the horn design allows you to pull the bowl without burning your fingers, making it ideal for quick clears during intense sessions. These slides often come in colorful, borosilicate glass that’s heat-resistant and less likely to crack under repeated use. The benefits include smoother handling, reduced risk of spills, and a more aesthetic appeal, turning a functional piece into a stylish accessory that elevates your setup without complicating the experience.
For those tired of dealing with ash in their bong water, screened pull slides offer a game-changing solution. These incorporate a built-in glass or metal screen at the base of the bowl, filtering out debris while allowing optimal airflow. Compared to the open-hole design of a martini slide, which often lets loose particles sneak through, screened versions keep your hits cleaner and your bong easier to maintain. The advantages extend to better herb conservation, as less material is wasted, and a purer taste since contaminants don’t mix with the smoke—perfect for flavor enthusiasts who prioritize smooth, unadulterated pulls.
If solo sessions or conserving your stash are your vibe, consider switching to a pinky bowl, a compact pull slide designed for single hits. These smaller, conical shapes hold just enough for one or two puffs, unlike the larger capacity of a martini slide that encourages overpacking and potential waste. Pinky bowl slides promote efficient burning with their focused airflow, reducing harshness and making them great for on-the-go use or microdosing. The key benefits here are portability, minimal cleanup, and cost savings on herb, all while delivering potent, controlled hits that avoid the overwhelming clouds of bigger bowls.
Not all martini slides are bad! In fact, the simple single hole design can be preferable, especially when used with an ash catcher. They are easy to load, easy to clean, and won’t restrict air flow. These slides are excellent for snapping the bowl, where the user finishes buy pulling extra hard so that the spent material snaps down through the hole and into the water of your bong or ash catcher. This method will definitely dirty the water quicker, but it makes reloading a breeze, and its kind of fun to boot!
Ultimately, exploring options like large party bowls—for group settings with their expansive capacity and even distribution—or even silicone slides for unbreakable durability, opens up a world of customization. Ditching that stock martini pull slide isn’t just about novelty; it’s about tailoring your bong to your lifestyle for smoother, safer, and more enjoyable experiences. Whether you’re seeking better grip, filtration, or efficiency, investing in a quality upgrade will make every session feel premium—your lungs (and your bong) will thank you.
