Bowls vs. Carts: A Modern Debate in Cannabis Consumption

As vaping cartridges (carts) surge in popularity, recent headlines highlighting hospitalizations linked to contaminated carts have sparked renewed debate over consumption methods. 

While convenience drives many toward carts, the enduring appeal of traditional bowls—cherished for their simplicity and reliability—suggests they may outlast fleeting trends. 

Let’s dive into the nuances of both to uncover why bowls remain a timeless choice.

Bowls: The Classic Choice

What Is a Bowl?

A bowl, often part of a hand pipe, is a centuries-old smoking tool consisting of a bowl for herb, a chamber, and a mouthpiece. Unlike bongs or carts, hand pipes require no water or batteries, offering a straightforward, portable experience. 

Available in dry or water-filtered designs, their discreet size, ease of cleaning, and artisanal craftsmanship make them a favorite among purists. From minimalist chillums to intricate sherlocks, bowls cater to both function and artistry.

Carts: Convenience with Caveats

What Is a Cart?

A cart (short for cartridge) is a pre-filled or refillable attachment for vape pens, popular for its discretion and portability. Using a 510-thread battery, carts heat oil via an atomizer, producing vapor instead of smoke. For instance, products like the Wild Orchard – D8 1.5G Cart 1350mg 10ct Box exemplify the market’s range, offering consistent potency and convenience in a compact format.

While their sleek, odorless design appeals to younger users, concerns linger about inconsistent quality. Unlike handcrafted bowls, carts are mass-produced, raising questions about ingredient transparency and long-term health impacts.

Types of Cart Batteries

• Slim Batteries: Early models with auto-draw activation, prioritizing simplicity.

• Variable Voltage Batteries: Allow temperature adjustments for thicker oils or smoother hits.

• Conceal Batteries: Discreet designs that shield the cart, though compatibility issues arise due to non-standardized cart sizes.

The EVRI BATTERY + 510/POD ATTACHMENT by Dip Devices, the XVAPE Cricket+, and the DIPPER VAPORIZER by Dip Devices showcase innovative versatility across a range of vaping solutions. Yet, even the best battery can’t eliminate risks tied to unregulated oils.

Why Bowls Outshine Carts: 5 Key Reasons

1. Authentic Effects
   Bowls deliver a fuller, unadulterated experience tied to the natural properties of herb. Carts, reliant on extracted oils, vary widely in potency and quality.
2. Proven Safety
   Decades of use suggest bowls pose fewer acute risks than carts, which have been linked to vaping-related lung injuries (EVALI) in studies. Why gamble on unvetted tech?
3. Built to Last
   A well-maintained bowl can endure a lifetime, needing only a flame. Carts, however, hinge on batteries that can fail mid-session, leaving you stranded.
4. Natural Flavor
   While carts often feature artificial terpenes, bowls highlight the herb’s true aroma—a preference for traditionalists wary of synthetic additives.
5. Artistry and Variety
   From vibrant glassblown spoon pipes to functional steamrollers, bowls are wearable art. Carts, in contrast, prioritize uniformity over creativity.

How to Smoke from a Bowl

1. Grind Your Herb: Use a grinder for a coarse consistency to prevent pull-through.
2. Pack Lightly: Avoid overstuffing; airflow is key for even burning.
3. Ignite and Inhale: Apply a flame while drawing slowly to savor the flavor.

Final Verdict: Tradition vs. Innovation

• Carts excel in discretion and convenience, ideal for on-the-go use.
• Bowls offer authenticity, flavor, and durability, appealing to ritualistic smokers.

Your choice hinges on lifestyle and values. For those prioritizing health and heritage, bowls are unmatched. Yet, as the market evolves, staying informed is crucial.

Explore curated collections at Day1 Distro for premium glassware or cutting-edge vapes. And tell us—bowls or carts? Share your pick in the comments!

This article reflects the author’s opinions and is not medical advice. Consume responsibly.