Finding a tobacco pipe that looks, feels, and functions perfectly for you can be a real challenge. With countless options to choose from and numerous features to consider, finalizing this purchase decision could be a bit daunting. Fortunately, there are a few guidelines that you can use to both simplify these efforts and ensure truly outstanding results. Following are a few key things to look for when buying a tobacco pipe.
Smooth, Seamless Alignment of All Parts
Proper alignment of a tobacco pipe’s components is a critical factor for ensuring a smooth, continuous stream of smoke and a comfortable and easy draw. Well-made pipes are comprised of several components that have been seamlessly and precisely aligned from the tip of the mouthpiece all the way to the bowl’s draft hole. Misalignment in any area throughout this path can lead to an overly loud and excessively moist pipe along with considerable turbulence with each draw.
Built-In Features for Reliable Smoke Cooling
With a short and cheaply made pipe, the delivery of smoke is virtually guaranteed to be harsh and unpleasant. Features that support gradual smoke cooling will allow you to better taste and experience tobacco flavors. For instance, if you intend to savor your tobacco over an extended smoking session, be sure to shop for a pipe with a fairly long stem. Longer stems allow the smoke to gradually cool before it reaches your mouth. Sometimes referred to as „reading pipes“, the longest options in tobacco pipes deliver a very soft, mild-temperature smoke. Long, lightweight pipes often make it easiest for new pipe users to fully appreciate tobacco flavors and their overall smoking experiences.
Filtered vs. Unfiltered Tobacco Pipes
Many French tobacco pipes come with either a 9 mm filter or an all-metal filter. In some instances, metal filters actually prevent smoke cooling, thereby leading to a moist, unpleasant smoke. Conversely, 9 mm filters which are comprised of either activated carbon or foam do not add heat, and they also help clean nicotine so that the smoke hits both softer and smoother. These same benefits can often be gained from balsa filtration which is common in quality Italian pipes. Finally, you also have the option of choosing an unfiltered pipe. Whether or not to choose a filtered pipe is a matter of personal preference and depends upon the amount of maintenance you want to perform, and the manner in which you want the smoke to hit.
A Well-Centered Draft Hole
The draft hole on any quality tobacco pipe will always be properly centered in the bowl. Moreover, it should be aligned perfectly with the stem’s airhole. For optimum draw look for pipes with draft holes that terminate at the base of the bowl rather than partially up the bowl’s side.
Consider Convertible Pipes for a More Streamlined Smoking Experience
Convertible pipes such as those made by Savinelli are largely customizable. These are the best pipes for anyone who wishes to streamline each smoking experience to their preferences. With the ability to make moderate adjustments across the entire layout of the pipe, you can ensure that your pipe is always easy to handle, transport, clean, and assemble for excellent smoke delivery.
Quality Materials
Tobacco pipes can be fashioned out of a very broad range of heat-resistant materials. Many of the best-loved pipes are fashioned from Erica Arborea or briar. Briarwood has a very dense grain that allows for the production of dry, cool smoke. It also has a consistently impressive ability to withstand constant exposure to high heat. As such, it creates highly functional, easy to maintain, and incredibly durable pipes that are just as pleasing to look at as they are to use.
If you’re shopping for tobacco pipes on a modest budget, you can find a variety of low-cost clay pipes that might make great starters. Keep in mind that although they’re available at an affordable cost, clay pipes heat up rapidly which makes them uncomfortable to hold for an extended period of time. These units are also quite fragile and can break entirely if dropped or roughly handled. For a quality, low-cost pipe considers using a corn cob pipe instead. These pipes have a decidedly rustic look. Best of all, because corn cob pipes don’t need to be broken in, they’re ready to smoke with as soon as you get them.
If you enjoy pipe tobacco regularly and like experimenting with different tobacco brands and flavors, you may eventually find that owning multiple pipes allows you to get the most from each smoking experience. With a variety of well-made pipes at your disposal, you can choose one to fit your needs in every location, with every grade of tobacco, and according to the type of smoke delivery that you want. Choosing a quality convertible pipe that meets all of the above-mentioned requirements is a great way to get started.