How does a chillum work?

[jomorning]

I have read about chillums but I still don't understand how they work exactly. I did this drawing: img225.imageshack.us/img225/6894/chillumgj0.png (sorry for not making it a link, the forum didn't let me) Is this correct? How does the stone look? How does it work?

 

[oldpink]

chillums are used like a pipe but normally its cupped between your hands
see here for more details

 

[D Rock]

I really want to get one of those and a chalice as well.

 

[jomorning]

Nah I didn't ask how to use it. I want to know its "mechanics" so I know how it works and I could build one myself.

 

[mangled]

what even crazier is a chubbler. hitting one of those is wierd. For those who dont know what a chubbler is, it is a chillum bubbler.

 

[jomorning]

OK so my drawing was correct. But still, wtf is the stone? I just make a circular piece and drop it in there? Doesn't air have trouble getting through then?

 

[Harry Gypsna]

no, because the stone will have 3 shallow V-shaped grooves cut into the sides which will make small channels for the air, and thus the smoke to pass into ur lungs but not, hot burning herb.....
a purist wouldnt even use a stone and just stick a bit of wet rag or snall bundle of fresh leaves in there......

 

[jomorning]

But why is the middle hole there?
http://shop.grasscity.com/images/item_detail/chsto_400.jpg

 

[varriform]

let air through , keep it from clogging.
P.S. in my book chillums(chilams) have been the best pipe for thousands of years and nothing has changed . Obviously that is just my opinion