How To Measure Downstem Size and Buy a New Downstem

The downstem is an essential part of a bong, and it is important to find the right one for your setup. Several factors matter when buying a new downstem: its length, material, and joint size.

If the stem is too short or too long, it won’t function properly. Be sure to measure your bong’s height before buying a new downstem so you know what length to look for.

What is a Downstem Size

A downstem is a tube designed to fit into the joint of your water pipe or bong and lead smoke from the bowl piece into the bottom of the bong or bubbler. Downstems are usually made out of metal, glass, or silicone, and come in different sizes and styles that fit most common joints.

Why is it Important to Get the Right Downstem?

When looking to buy a new downstem, measure its length and size. This way, you can find one that fits your smoking device.

A short downstem may cause smoke to leak out. A long one might not fit your device's opening.

• Improve the flow and filtration of smoke
• Enhance the flavor of your smoking experience
• Easily customize your pipe setup for different types of bowls or bongs
• Can be used to adjust the height and angle of your bowl piece

Types of downstems

Once you know your bong’s joint size and gender, it is time to decide which type of downstem will best suit your needs. There are several types available including

• Straight Downstems (for improved air flow without any extra attachments),
• Bent Downstems (for an angled draw),
• Angled Downstems (to reach further into corner pieces),
• Diffused Downstems (with multiple slits cut into it for increased filtration),
• Removable Downstems (easily taken apart for washing),
• Fixed-Style Stemless Bongs (no removable parts at all),
• Recycler & Multi Chamber Bongs (for filtration & cooling)
• Percolator and Honeycomb Bong Attachments (to break up smoke particles).

Also, some downstems come with extra parts, like diffusers or percolators. Check if there is space for these in the design before you buy.

Measuring for the Right Downstem Size

Measuring your downstem size is crucial when shopping or replacing it. This size depends on two things: joint size and stem length, which ensure a proper fit in your bong.

Length Matters!

By taking a few measurements of your downstem you can find out what size replacements you need. Measure the length from the bottom of the joint to the end of the downstem, then measure the inner diameter (ID) or outer diameter (OD).

This will tell you if your downstem has an 18mm, 14mm, or 10mm joint size and if it's a male or female joint.

Don’t Forget Width!

To get the correct diameter size, use a ruler to measure the inside or outside of your downstem. The most common sizes are 18mm and 14mm. Male downstems usually have larger diameters than female ones.

The Titan Stem offers precision machined, aircraft grade aluminum designs with an adjustable length for perfect fit on all Prism Beaker Bases. Furthermore, its smooth non-stick finish ensures that it always looks new. It also comes with three diffusers and two joint sizes:18/18mm and 18/14 mm low profile joints so you can find just what you need to take great hits each time!

The Pencil Method

To get the most accurate measurement, we suggest using a thin pencil. The majority of downstems come in either 6", 8" or 10" sizes for female joints and 120mm in length for male joints.

1. Stick the pencil into the downstem until it hits resistance at the joint,
2. Measure from there to get the total length of your stem.

The Tape Method

If measuring with a pencil or dime doesn’t work, try using a tape measure. This will help you get the exact diameter size of your downstem.

• Simply insert the end of a flexible measuring tape into the joint and then measure the inside circumference.
• If it measures 18mm, you have an 18mm joint; if it measures 14mm, you have a 14mm joint.

The Dime Method

Another way to measure the size of your downstem is using a dime. Insert a dime into the joint and if it fits snugly then you have an 18mm joint. If it slides in but there’s still some room, then you have a 14mm joint.

Choosing the Right Downstem for Your Bowl

Once you have measured your current downstem, think about any improvements. They could make your smoking better. If your downstem is too long, impeding airflow, try a shorter one instead.

Choose a diffuser or percolator type stem for better filtration and larger bubbles when smoking.