Because briar is a natural resource, influenced by such factors as climate and soil, the quality of the grain varies greatly. The mark of a great pipe maker is to follow the natural grain of the briar to shape his creation. A few tubes have a perfect, uniform grain pattern and get great prices. Part of the pipes by the late Bo Nordh, command prices of more than $ 10,000 each! Most Churchwarden pipes are small, natural surface defects, the so-called sandbox, which can not be detected until the pipe maker cuts into the roughly-shaped blocks. These surface blemishes affect the tube appear, but they have no effect on smoking the pipe quality. These pipes can be sold for less than $ 100 if they have a smooth finish, or the pipe maker may choose to sand blasting or rusticate the surface a rough texture to create.
Tubes are available in an almost limitless variety of shapes. There are over 100 standard shapes and there are free forms when the pipe maker lets the bush of corn determine the shape of the pipe. When choosing a pipe, take some time to regard it as you would when buying on shopping bargains such as accessory like a watch. Think about how you see it in your mouth. Pick it up, treatment, and compare with others. Take your time! Remember, if properly treated, your conduit to a lifelong companion to help you enjoy hours of relaxation.
