Even an attractive wooden pipe can have hidden flaws — and probably does if it comes with a low price tag. If price is your main concern, a corncob pipe is a safer bet. A metal filter in the stem can absorb moisture and perhaps alter the flavor. This is a matter of personal preference, and the filter should be removable if you change your mind.
Avoid pipes with walls thinner than ¼ inch (6mm), about the width of a pencil. The base should be at least this thick as well; to measure this, put a straight pipe cleaner down the chamber, pinch it at the top of the chamber, then compare this height to the outside wall. Stick a pipe cleaner down the stem. It should run smoothly through and emerge very close to the base of the chamber. Although there are exceptions, thick varnishes may flake and bubble from heat after heavy use.
A lighter or matches. Plastic butane lighters are cheap and plentiful but some smokers dislike the smell and taste. Pipe lighters are available for a variety of prices, but it might be a good idea to start with a good supply of wooden matches. You can always invest in a pipe lighter later. A bundle of pipe cleaners to keep your pipe clean and functioning properly. Pipe tamper. This is used to pack the tobacco in the bowl.
Aromatic blends (sometimes called American) have added flavors. Most beginners prefer these milder, sweeter options. Non-aromatic blends are pure tobacco, typically with a strong, spicy taste. “English blends” are non-aromatic blends that include Latakia, a powerful, smoky variety. Any tobacco can go through a “Cavendish” process to make it sweeter and lighter. If possible, purchase two or three small sample tins so you can try a range of options.
Ribbon cut tobacco comes in long, thin, ribbons, which can be placed directly in the bowl. Flake cut tobacco comes in thick strips, or irregular broken pieces. Either way, rub it between your fingers until it breaks apart into small pieces.
If you’re smoking a new briar pipe, smoke indoors away from drafts. Even gentle wind will cause the pipe to burn hotter, which can damage a briar pipe before it’s “broken in. “[3] X Research source This is not necessary for most other pipes, including corncob pipes.
Drinking alcohol before or during a smoke is not recommended, since it greatly increases smoke-related cancer risk. [4] X Trustworthy Source American Cancer Society Nonprofit devoted to promoting cancer research, education, and support Go to source
Drop a tiny pinch of tobacco in the chamber. Tamp this very lightly or not at all, leaving plenty of air between the leaves. Add a slightly larger pinch, tamping lightly until the bowl is half-filled. Finish with a third pinch, tamping with a bit more pressure until there is a gap of ¼ inch (0. 6mm) above the tobacco. Note — when breaking in a new briar pipe, many people fill to ⅓ or ½ the depth described here the first few smokes. This helps form a protective cake of charcoal, although not all smokers agree with this approach. [6] X Research source [7] X Research source
A minority of pipe smokers do enjoy the occasional inhale, which gives more of a nicotine buzz. Pipe smoke is much stronger and thicker than a cigarette, so stick with a gentle pull and limit yourself to one or two inhales per bowl. Avoiding inhalation does make lung cancer less likely, but there is still a high risk of oral cancers from long-term use. [11] X Research source
Never take apart the pipe while it is still warm. This may crack the stem.
Briar pipes need a charcoal buildup (a “cake”) to protect the wood. Cover the bowl and shake the ash around to loosen it and distribute it around the bowl of the pipe. With your finger, rub the ash into the walls of the bowl. Dump the remnants out. [13] X Research source For other pipes, most smokers prefer them kept clean. Shake out the ash, then wipe the bowl with a paper towel or pipe cleaner. (Meerschaum pipes especially should never be allowed to cake heavily. )
If you want to smoke more often, add a second pipe to your collection. You can leave a pipe cleaner in the pipe to absorb any remaining moisture as it rests.
