The joint is the standardized connection between the bong, downstem, and bowl. To ensure everything fits snugly and airtight, the glass is finely ground. A clean precision joint determines whether your bong sits securely or draws air at the connections.
What do NS 14 and NS 18 mean?
NS stands for "Normschliff" (standard joint). The number is the diameter in millimeters:
- NS 14 = 14.5mm joint – the more compact, common size.
- NS 18 = 18.8mm joint – the larger variant, more airflow.
Important: The bowl, downstem, and bong must have the same joint size. Otherwise, nothing will fit together.
Why a good joint is so important
A precise joint seals without a sealing ring – glass on glass. If it sits cleanly, the bong draws airtight, and you don't lose any smoke through leaky spots. Cheaply manufactured joints wobble, draw in secondary air, and are annoying. That's why we at EHLE. place so much importance on clean precision joints – this is fine craftsmanship that you immediately notice when you take a hit.
Male or female?
Joints are available as male (outer) and female (inner). The bowl goes into the downstem, and the downstem goes into the bong. Adapters can be used to combine sizes and genders if something doesn't fit directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which joint size should I choose?
NS 14 is compact and common, NS 18 offers more airflow. More important than the size is that all parts fit together.
What if the bowl and bong have different sizes?
Then you need an adapter – it bridges NS 14 to NS 18 and vice versa.
Share:
Kickhole
Downstem