it's basically like any pipe with a carb you've seen before, only with water in the bottom for a smoother toke.
and I haven't ever gotten water on me, so maybe don't inhale so hard and you'll be good.
and yes, sadly, you do go through a decent amount of weed. Not as bad as a bong though.
I like the sound bubblers make.
post pics when you get it fa sho.