Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Briar Or Meerschaum- What Else Should Be Considered?

Briar, which has been used for pipe making for about 350 years, is the root burl of the White Heath. The tree grows in certain regions of the Mediterranean. Briar is used for the majority of pipes, but other materials like clay, ivory, porcelain, amber, and meerschaum are used as well. Even metal, antler, gourd, bone, and shell have been crafted into pipes at some point or another. With so many choices at hand, picking a pipe can seem like a game of roulette.

A reputable, established pipe shop is key to finding a pipe that works for you, and which you will enjoy for years to come. Somebody new to the world of pipe smokers can take advantage of the experience of other pipe smokers by asking for advice on the different types available. In general, "best tobacco pipes" do not exist, because smoking a pipe is a different experience for each individual. However, there are a few criteria worth consideration.

First up is aesthetics, which is a very personal matter. The pipe smoker has to genuinely like the look of the pipe. Even a mechanically flawless pipe does not make up for the lack of visual appeal. Looking at the different styles of pipes, different materials, and price ranges will give the new smoker an idea on what is available. Narrowing down the selection will simplify the process of choosing the right one. The first rule of buying a pipe should be to buy a pipe the smoker truly likes and enjoys.

The degree of craftsmanship, with which the pipe was manufactured, is an important factor in the selection process. It is often hard for new pipe smoker to tell how well a particular pipe is made. A well made pipe has properly aligned parts. A quality pipe has a perfectly smooth airway, without anything obstructing the smoke stream. Any kind of obstruction can cause a pipe to smoke “loud†and “wetâ€.

Large holes and gaps are often referred to as “fillsâ€. Even though putty fillings do not necessarily have an impact on the smoking experience, they may cause the pipe to color unevenly. The finish of a pipe typically does not influence the quality of the pipe itself, but varnishes and sealed finishes are best avoided, as they tend to flake or bubble over time. The pipe should look and feel like it was made with care. Unfinished spots, uneven stains, stains inside the bowl, and visible sandpaper marks are telltale signs of a poorly manufactured pipe.

Knowledgeable personnel can be very helpful in finding the right pipe. Their advice can be a good guideline, but personal preference is all that really matters at the end. Smoking a pipe is a very personal experience, and taking time in choosing a pipe will ensure that the smoker will enjoy the new pipe for many years.

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