Bullet vibrators are tiny enough to fit in the palm of your hand but strong enough to enhance pleasure and intensify orgasm for some. Learn how to use a bullet vibrator to get the most out of your pleasure product. 

What is a bullet vibrator?

Bullet vibrators are a type of small vibrator, typically a few inches long and about the width of your thumb. They are designed for external stimulation, targeting the vulva and clitoris. Bullet vibrators are slim and smooth, like a bullet (hence the name), but can come in various shapes. Thanks to their size, bullet vibrators are also known as “pocket vibrators” and can make for a great travel sex toy, starter vibe, or addition to any play session, solo or partnered. 

How to use a bullet vibrator 

Here’s a quick guide on how to use a bullet vibrator for the first time.

1. Choose the right bullet vibrator for you

‍With so many brands and models, choosing one can be a bit overwhelming. But hastily purchasing the first vibe you see could lead to a disappointing experience. Before you buy, think about the material (e.g., aluminum, steel, medical-grade silicone, etc.) and what you’ll be using this vibrator for (e.g., partnered play, solo sessions, travel, etc.). You may also want to look into its speed and vibration settings, charging capabilities, and price.

2. Clean it

‍Clean your vibe before use, even if it is new. You should also properly clean your vibrator between uses.

3. Charge it

‍If you’re just unboxing your bullet vibrator, you’ll likely need to charge it before use. Read your product’s information to learn how to charge it, and how to tell when it’s running low on battery life. Most will have a USB rechargeable feature. 

4. Learn your bullet vibrator’s settings

‍Different bullet vibrators may offer different modes and intensities. Some may be controlled with a button, others may be smart toys with a connected app. Check your product’s details to learn how to control settings. Experiment with your bullet’s vibration intensities and see how each feels against your skin. Knowing its intensity levels before you place it on your clitoris will prevent any uncomfortable surprises later. 

5. Lube up

‍Get a compatible lubricant (water-based lubes work well in most situations) and apply a few squirts to the bullet's tip. This will help reduce any friction. 

6. Relax and enjoy

‍After you’ve cleaned, charged, and lubed up your new bullet vibrator, it’s time to relax and enjoy the pleasure it offers. 

6 tips to enhance play using a bullet vibrator 

Here are some tips and techniques to get the most out of your bullet vibrator. 

1. Trace it slowly over your vulva

‍“Start by tracing the bullet all over your vulva, using both the tip and the flatter side of the bullet,” advises Holly Jackson, co-founder of women's sexual wellness business, SheSpot. “Next, explore the clitoris and take your time here. Start on a lower speed and intensity setting, and increase this as your arousal builds.” 

2. Stimulate the clitoris indirectly

‍“Tease yourself and explore which areas feel best, e.g., inner thighs, external and internal labia, the clitoris — directly or through the hood, perineum, and anus are just a few options,” says Sarah Melancon, PhD, a certified sexologist. “Many enjoy stimulating the areas next to the clitoris, in the 11:00 or 1:00 positions, more than the clitoris itself.” 

3. Combine it with vaginal or anal play

‍Whether with a partner or in the middle of a steamy solo session, you can add a bullet vibe to the mix to amp things up. “A bullet vibrator can be combined with vaginal or anal penetration, either with a partner or using toys,” adds Melancon. “Different nerves transmit sensation in different areas of the genitals, and generally speaking, the more nerves stimulated, the greater pleasure and satisfaction.”

4. Alternate using your fingers and your vibrator

‍You can also alternate between using your toy and your hand. Mix it up! “Switching between fingers and your vibrator can keep your nerves on their toes, intensifying the sensation of vibration,” says Melancon. 

5. Place it inside your underwear

‍If you’re trying to spice things up, try wearing a pair of vibrating panties. These special-made undergarments have an insertable bullet vibe (or a pouch for one), so you can play in public. This is also an easy way to get a hands-free orgasm. No muss, no fuss. 

6. Make it a part of your foreplay routine

‍“For couples play, a bullet vibrator can be used during foreplay to add vibration and more sensation anywhere you want it,” says certified sexual health and wellness educator and CEO of My Secret Luxury, Stacy Rybchin. “A bullet vibrator can stimulate the penis or perineum during oral sex or a hand job. It can also be used externally during anal play to stimulate the nerve endings around the anus and perineum.”

3 positions to try using a bullet vibrator

If you’re using a bullet vibrator during partnered play or penetrative sex, you can incorporate your toy into most any position. There are a few positions, however, we recommend as they are particularly conducive to the shape and size of this type of vibrator. 

1. Missionary

‍The Missionary Position is when one partner lays on their back, and the penetrating partner straddles them. In this position, both partners are facing each other. 

“By placing the bullet vibe on your clitoris, you'll be able to enjoy some intense stimulation while your partner penetrates you,” says Pippa Murpy, a sex and relationship expert at condoms.uk. Laying on your back with your thighs spread apart (knees bent to either side) is also a great way to enjoy direct clitoral stimulation during a solo session. 

2. Doggy Style

‍In the Doggy Style position, one partner gets on all fours while the 

penetrating partner kneels behind them. (This is a rear-penetration position.) When getting in this position, you can place the bullet vibe against your clit before or during penetration. You can control the intensity with the controls and how hard you press the vibe against your body. This is also a great position to enjoy a little vibe action while receiving a rim job. 

3. Cowgirl

‍In the Cowgirl Position, the non-penetrating partner is on top. “With this position, you get to control the speed, angle of the penis [or dildo], and motion with your arms and legs, but you or your partner can also use a bullet vibrator to stimulate your clitoris and vulva,” says Rybchin.

The bottom line

Learning to use a small vibrator is often half the fun. As you experiment, you’ll discover what feels good, what modes and intensities you enjoy, and how to incorporate your bullet vibrator into partnered play (if that’s what you enjoy). To find one that’s right for you, explore our catalog of bullet vibrators.