As society becomes more accepting toward — and more interested in — cannabis, more are turning to the plant for its potential health benefits. After the especially difficult year of 2020, it’s understandable why so many are turning to one-hitter pipes and cannabis to provide a small bit of relaxation, something to take the edge off, so to speak.

In this article, we’ll go into depth on everything you need to know abouthow to use a one-hitter pipe and help you figure out whether it’s for you or not.

How to use a one-hitter pipe

Using a one-hitter pipe is fairly straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Grind your cannabis: Start by grinding your cannabis finely. Be careful not to grind it too fine, or it will burn too quickly.
2. Pack the pipe: Pack the ground cannabis into the bowl. Don’t overpack it so that there’s proper airflow.
3. Light it up: Hold the one-hitter pipe with your fingers and use a lighter to ignite the cannabis.
4. Inhale: Through the mouthpiece, take a small, controlled inhale. One-hitters are designed for short, quick hits, so there's no need for a deep inhale. Exhale, and enjoy.
5. Cleaning: It’s in the name — one-hitters are only good for one use so remember to clean out the used bud afterwards. Use a pipe cleaner or similar tool to clear any residue.

What is a one-hitter?

A one-hitter is a small, slender pipe designed for a single inhalation or "hit." Although it can come in different shapes and sizes, it usually has a compact design that features a small bowl where you hold the cannabis. While different traditional and modern styles of one-hitters exist, all of their bowls remain roughly the same size to accommodate holding about 25mg of cannabis.

One-hitters are popular with cannabis enthusiasts who prefer micro-dosing, as well as those who want a quick and discreet way of smoking weed.

Benefits of using a one-hitter

Here are some of the key benefits of using a one-hitter:

1. Discreetness: Their small size makes one-hitters highly discreet and easy to conceal.
2. Portability: One-hitters are made for portability and can be easily carried in your pocket, purse, or bag.
3. Controlled dosages: They are perfect for micro-dosing, as they allow you to control your intake with precision.
4. Efficiency: One-hitters conserve your cannabis supply by burning small amounts at a time.
5. Minimal Maintenance: Compared to larger pipes and bongs, one-hitters require less cleaning and maintenance.

Cons of using a one-hitter

While convenient, one-hitters also come with their own set of drawbacks:

1. Limited capacity: They can only hold a small amount of cannabis, which might not be sufficient for heavy users. They also need frequent refilling.
2. Not ideal for group use: Their size makes them less practical for social settings or group sessions.
3. Less satisfying to use: For those who enjoy the ritual of preparing and smoking, the simplicity of a one-hitter might be less satisfying.

How to choose a one-hitter

One-hitters come in different shapes, sizes, and constructions. Choosing the right one for your needs and preferences helps enhance your overall experience.

You can classify one-hitters into two types: traditional and modern one-hitters.

Types of modern one-hitters

• Chillum pipes:Conical in shape, chillum pipes are typically made of clay and feature a channel that runs from bowl to mouthpiece. Originally used in India by Hindu monks, chillums are now very popular across the globe.
• Glass pipes:Although they can be more easily broken, glass one hitters are ideal for smokers focused on quality taste. 
• Metal pipes: Metal one-hitter pipes are durable, but many on the market lack finesse in design and execution.

Traditional types of one-hitters

• Sebsi: Thesebsi pipe originates from Morocco and features a narrow clay bowl with a long, wooden stem. This type of one-hitter can be over a foot long and was traditionally used to smoke kief, rather than normal flower. 
• Kiseru: Japanese in origin, the kiseru one-hitter is usually made from acombination of metal and bamboo. Initially popularized in the 17th century, kiseru pipes are even mentioned in some Buddhist texts. 
• Medwakh: Although traditionally used to smoke tobacco and other herbs, the Middle Eastern one-hitter pipe is sometimes used to smoke cannabis. Medwakh can be made from a variety of materials — from wood and metal to glass and bone.

When shopping for the right one-hitter for you, consider the following:

1. Material: Think about whether you prefer the classic feel of wood, the durability of metal, or the clean taste and aesthetic appeal of glass or ceramics.
2. Portability: Consider the size and shape for your specific use case. If you want convenience and on-the-go use, look for smaller, compact designs.
3. Ease of cleaning: Some materials and designs are easier to clean than others.
4. Durability: Look at the material and construction of the one-hitter, as some materials offer more resilience against drops and wear.
5. Aesthetics: Find one with a design that matches your aesthetic and personal taste.
6. Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend and set a budget. The prices can vary significantly, from budget options to expensive artisanal pieces.

How to clean a one-hitter

If you want to maximize your one-hitter and always get optimal performance, you need to get into the habit of cleaning and maintaining your piece. Here’s how:

1. Empty it out: Tap out any remaining ash and cannabis residue from the pipe.
2. Soak it in alcohol: Fill up a large bowl or jar with isopropyl alcohol and submerge the one-hitter for several hours or overnight to loosen the buildup.
3. Scrub it thoroughly: After soaking, use a pipe cleaner or cotton swab to scrub the pipe’s insides.
4. Rinse: Rinse the one-hitter under warm water to remove any alcohol and loosened residue.
5. Dry completely: Before using it again, ensure the one-hitter is completely dry using a dry towel.

To sum it up

One-hitter pipes are a fantastic option for those who want an easy, discreet, and stash-conserving way to enjoy cannabis. They’re also a good match for those who want an efficient way to microdose. Sometimes, one hit can hit just right.

FAQs

How do you empty a one hitter?

To empty a one-hitter, just tap it gently against a hard surface to dislodge all the ash and residue. If there’s any left, use a thin tool like a paperclip or cotton bud to remove it. 

How to use a one hitter without a grinder?

You can just break the cannabis buds into small pieces using your hands. Make sure to break them fine enough for a smooth draw but not too powdery.

How to pack a glass one hitter pipe?

After grinding, gently press finely ground cannabis into the one-hitter’s bowl. Make sure you don’t overpack it so that there’s enough airflow for an even burn.