JM Plastics Skull Bong Review: Is This The Perfect Acrylic Bong For Your First Sesh?

Yes, the JM Plastics Skull Top Acrylic Water Pipe is worth it for beginners seeking a durable, affordable, and incredibly simple bong that gets the job done without a steep learning curve.

Trying to buy your first bong can feel like scrolling through a video game skill tree with zero XP. Glass, silicone, percs, downstems… where do you even start when you’re just trying to chill? And let's be real, nobody wants to drop a bunch of cash on a fancy glass piece just to have their clumsy friend—or you, we don't judge—knock it over during a gaming sesh.

That’s where the JM Plastics Skull Top bong comes in. We're breaking down exactly who this simple, tough-as-nails acrylic piece is for, and who should probably pass.

What Exactly is the JM Plastics Skull Top Water Pipe?

So let's cut through the noise and get straight to what this thing is. JM Plastics is pretty much the go-to brand when you want something that's easy on the wallet and can survive a drop or two. They specialize in accessible and durable acrylic pieces that are perfect for a chill, no-stress sesh.  

Here’s the tale of the tape for this specific acrylic bong 12 inch model:

• Material: Durable Acrylic Plastic  
• Height: 12 inches
• Key Feature: Side Carb Hole for Airflow Control  
• Design: Unique Skull Mouthpiece
• SKU: F-84-12-O

So, Are Acrylic Bongs Good or Bad? The Honest Breakdown.

This is the big question for a lot of first-timers, so let's get into it. Are acrylic bongs good or bad? Like most things, it’s not a simple yes or no—it’s all about the trade-offs.

The Good Stuff: Why You Might Want an Acrylic Bong

• Durability: This is the number one reason to go acrylic. This thing is basically party-proof and clumsy-friend-resistant. It's lightweight, easy to pass around, and you won't have a mini heart attack if it gets knocked over. It's the perfect piece for a social hang where you want to focus on the vibe, not on protecting fragile glass.  
• Affordability: Let's be real, price matters. Acrylic is a super budget-friendly material, making it a great choice if you're making your first purchase and don't want to make a huge financial commitment. You get the full bong experience without having to drop a ton of cash.  
• Easy Maintenance: The simple, straight-tube design makes this piece incredibly easy to clean. There are no complex parts or delicate percs to worry about. For a full walkthrough, check out our step-by-step guide on how to clean a bong.

The Trade-Offs: What's the Disadvantage of Acrylic?

• Flavor: We have to be honest here: borosilicate glass gives you a cleaner, purer flavor. Because acrylic is a type of plastic, it can sometimes add a slight taste to your smoke, especially when it's brand new. For many, it's not a big deal, but for flavor chasers, it's a noticeable difference.  
• Heat Resistance: This is a major one. Can you put boiling water in an acrylic bong? The answer is a hard NO. Since acrylic is the same thing as plastic, extreme heat can warp, damage, or release nasty stuff from the material. Stick to cool or room-temperature water only.
• Aesthetics & Longevity: While it's tough, acrylic can get scratched or become a bit discolored over time with heavy use. High-quality glass, on the other hand, will keep its crystal-clear look for years if you treat it right.

Let's Talk About That Hole: Is a Carb Hole Necessary?

If you're new to bongs, you've probably wondered about that little hole on the side. While not all bongs have carb holes, they are super common on simpler pieces like this one, and understanding them is key to getting a good hit.

How a Carb Hole Works (The 10-Second Explanation)

Think of the carb hole as a "turbo button" for your hit. The process is simple: you cover the hole with your thumb while you light the bowl, which allows the chamber to fill up with smoke. Once it's full, you release your thumb. This lets fresh air rush in and push the entire cloud of smoke into your lungs for a quick, efficient rip.  

The easiest analogy is a straw: it’s like covering the end with your finger to trap liquid inside, then letting go to have it all rush out at once.

Why is the hole on a pipe called a carb?

The name "carb" is just shorthand for carburetor. Its function is similar because it controls the mix of air and smoke, just like a carburetor in an engine controls the air-to-fuel ratio. However, don't confuse this with car engines! In the world of pipes and bongs, it's all about mastering airflow for the perfect hit.

Our Hands-On Review: The Highs and Lows of the JM Skull Bong

We got our hands on this piece to give you the real scoop on what it's like to own and use.

The First Impression: Unboxing and Feel

Right out of the box, the first thing you notice is how lightweight it is. It's easy to handle and pass around, but it still feels solid and doesn't have that flimsy feel some cheap plastic pieces do. The skull design is definitely a fun, novelty touch that makes it a great conversation starter for a session with the crew. It’s not trying to be a piece of high-end art; it’s trying to be fun, and it nails that.  

The Sesh Test: How Does It Hit?

For a beginner, the experience is super intuitive. The carb hole is easy to find and use, making clearing the chamber a breeze without any complicated techniques. The hits are direct and get the job done effectively. As mentioned, there's a very slight acrylic taste on the first couple of bowls compared to glass, but it's not overpowering and tends to fade after a few uses and a good cleaning.

Editor's Note: As someone who's reviewed dozens of pieces, my go-to tip for any new acrylic bong is to give it a thorough rinse with cool, soapy water before your first use. It helps minimize that initial "new plastic" taste and gets you to the good stuff faster. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.

Who is This Bong PERFECT For?

• The true beginner making their very first bong purchase.
• The social smoker who needs a durable "party piece" that can handle some bumps.
• Anyone on a strict budget who just wants a reliable, no-frills daily driver.

Who Should Probably Skip It?

• The flavor connoisseur who wants to taste every single terpene in their bud. You'd be happier with a simple glass beaker bong.
• The collector who sees glass as functional art and is looking for high-end, intricate designs.  

Is Acrylic Toxic? Answering Your Safety Questions

It's a fair question to ask: is acrylic toxic like some other plastics? The high-quality, food-grade acrylic used in water pipes from reputable brands is stable and considered safe for its intended use—which, and this is important, means using it with cool water only.  

And yes, to be clear, 100% acrylic is a type of plastic. That's why you should never expose it to high heat or clean it with harsh chemical solvents. As long as you use it as directed, you can have a safe and enjoyable session. We are not making any health claims here; simply follow the rules, and you'll be fine.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Are acrylic bongs good for beginners?

Absolutely. They're tough, cheap, and easy to use, making them a perfect low-risk way for a beginner to get started with water pipes.  

What is the main disadvantage of an acrylic bong?

The most significant disadvantage is flavor. Unlike glass, which is totally neutral, acrylic can sometimes impart a slight plastic taste to the smoke, especially when it's new.  

Is a carb hole on a bong necessary?

It's not strictly required (many glass bongs use a pull-out slide instead), but for a simple bong like this, it's a very common and easy-to-use feature for clearing the smoke from the chamber.  

Can you put hot water in an acrylic bong?

No, never. Acrylic is a plastic and can be damaged or warped by high temperatures. Only use cool or room-temperature water.

Is acrylic plastic safe to smoke out of?

When used correctly with cool water, the food-grade acrylic in a quality bong is considered safe. Avoid high heat and harsh cleaning chemicals to maintain its condition.

The Final Verdict

Ready to stop overthinking and start your first sesh? The JM Plastics Skull Top bong is a no-frills, all-fun way to get into the game. It’s tough, it’s affordable, and it’s waiting to join your crew.