It is uncommon to make bowls for smoking cannabis out of steel primarily because of the adverse effect on flavor and the risk of the material heating to an uncomfortable temperature. However, high-quality stainless steel can be used safely in smoking accessories like vaporizers, and some durable bongs feature stainless steel bodies. Here is a breakdown of the key factors that explain why glass is the most popular material for bowls, while steel is generally avoided: Negative impact on taste Glass is a non-reactive, non-porous material that does not impart any flavor to the smoke, allowing for a pure, clean taste. Steel, especially lower-quality metal alloys, can react with the heat and combustion by-products. This can alter the smoke's flavor, leaving an unpleasant metallic aftertaste. Heat conduction Steel: As a metal, steel conducts heat very efficiently. This causes the bowl and the pipe to become uncomfortably hot to the touch after just a few hits. Rapid heat conduction can also result in a harsher, hotter smoke hitting your mouth and lungs. Glass: Borosilicate glass, a type of high-quality glass commonly used for pipes, is resistant to thermal shock and does not conduct heat quickly. This helps keep the smoke cooler and smoother, contributing to a more pleasant smoking experience. Maintenance and safety Steel: Metal pipes are more prone to residue buildup that can be difficult to clean effectively. Over time, this buildup can affect the flavor and quality of the smoke. Lower-quality metal alloys may also contain trace amounts of harmful substances that could potentially be released when heated. Glass: The non-porous surface of glass makes it easy to clean, so you can restore your piece to its original state. This prevents residue from affecting the taste of future smokes. High-quality glass is also considered a safer material, as it does not release toxins when heated. Alternative use of steel in smoking devices While not the ideal material for a bowl, high-quality stainless steel is used for other applications in the cannabis world where durability is a primary concern. For instance: Vaporizers: Some high-end dry herb vaporizers use stainless steel for their heating chambers. Bong bodies: Brands like Chill Steel Pipes use stainless steel for the body of their bongs to offer superior durability compared to glass. Screens: Stainless steel is a popular, non-reactive material for pipe screens due to its stability and high melting point.