Choosing your first pipe

So, here we are again with another pipe article. This time I thought I would assist readers in choosing a first tobacco pipe.

The trick here, as with many other pipe related things is that there really is no trick. What I mean is that no one can tell you what pipe is going to be best for you to start off with. As with tobacco selection it is an expression of yourself, and must be something you want and like. I do however caution you not to go out and spend hundreds of dollars on a pipe, especially not your first one. It may not even be a great idea to buy one off of ebay the first time you buy. The first pipe is a unique experience, and it should be one which you feel a connection to. It has to be an item you feel has character which you can relate to. Dont buy a plastic pipe from the smokeshop in your local grocery store either. I had one. it was my first pipe. I don't recomend it.

When choosing that first pipe. Personally I recomend something made out of briar, which is the traditional material for english pipes. It is realitively cheap and will last a long time if cared for. briar is wood, however it is fire resistant and as long as the bottom of the pipe is kept dry, and allowed to develope a cake of tobacco residue as time goes on it will last a lifetime, or longer.

So. Where do you find a briar pipe with character without hitting Ebay? My answer is go to a tobacconist, While you might pay a bit more for a pipe from a legitimate shop, you are also able to ask questions of the staff there, whom are generally smokers themselves. Some may be able to recomend a type of pipe to you, or share thoughts on what they enjoy. You should also ask about the bin of used pipes. If the store has a bin or rack of estate pipes, or used pipes you may be able to get a very unique pipe at a discount.

If you choose to purchase a pipe which has been used before, you may want to run a few pipe cleaners through it and wash the stem with alcohol before using it. This is just to make sure it is clean and that your first experience is a pleasant one, not one that tastes like someone elses mouth.

Finally, I say again. Do not spend a pile of money on a pipe. I got my favorite pipe (my second) for about fourty dollars CAN, brand new and its a great smoke. You dont need to spend lots to get an enjoyable pipe which is pleasing to you and smokes well. Only you can decide what pipe is right for you, there are so many styles and whatnot to choose from which I wont go into now, nor is it overly important to your choice. Pick what looks and feels right to you.

Happy Smoking!