I agree with you 100% Matches! Any pipe will do, especially if u cant smoke as much like me, and u r in a nice setting. I love spring n summer, in the morning while watering the veggie garden, i like to sit down wiith a pipe and coffee and RELAX Great video as always Doug
Clayton Douglas Oh yes, and your favorites now will most likely take a back seat as you find new ones, but you'll always come back to them for a thrill!
One question that I haven't heard much about is small vs. large diameter inner chambers. To me, it seems like if you want to keep your bowl cool, it'd be easier with a wide diameter inner chamber. I like my small pipes for a quick bowl, but I find it takes more control to keep them from being harsh and bitey.
Excellent video with some great points made. I, funny enough was just thinking about this topic and doing a follow-up so I am uploading a follow-up to your wonderful video. Nice brainstorming with you across the miles!
Great video and good advice John. I myself go through stages where I'll smoke a weeks rotation of bent pipes then switch to straight billiards and then corncobs. I find the week I am smoking the cobs is when I have some of my best smokes. Cobs for me just feel traditional and old worldly. I love'em.
Another great video. And I agree with you 100% on everything you said. It's crazy because I have a Dunhill and a stanwell that are great pipes. But I smoke my Dr grabow royal duke and my mm mark twain more than anything. Now my Dagner poker cob gets a lot of attention. Again great video.
+sasquatch It's pretty funny what we gravitate to and when. My most expensive pipe is very eye appealing but doesn't really do much for me as a smoker. Give me a junkie pipe any old day!
Decided to re-watch this video after watching birdman talk about it. Enjoyed it again. Bought first pipes in mid 1970s, Grabows, Medicos, don’t remember Yellow Bowls sold down here, lots of basket pipes. Smoked the drug store tobaccos, Sail, Amphora, etc. Smoked a lot of Flying Dutchman. No longer made. Recently bought a “like Flying Dutchman.” I guess it’s best to let memories be memories. Not what I remember at all. Anyway, I agree one can get great smokes from all kinds of pipes. I now like pipes with some heft. I like thick walls. Feels good in my hand, and all of that kind of thing is part of the pipe smoking experience. I enjoy my collection of Eric Nording pipes and a new Savinelli Poker. But the most enjoyable part of pipe smoking is the moment. I also smoke a lot of cigars, which I greatly enjoy, but cigars require attention to the burn, pipe smoking is a self-contained moment. If you smoke slowly, you can soak up the tobacco flavor and the tactile feel of the briar on your fingers holding the pipe. Total bliss. (or as you say “fantastic) Greatly enjoy your videos. Greetings from a brother of the briar.
Blue Dog "The moment"...so well put! I do believe we pipe smokers have some fantastic times not experienced by others. A chance to ponder,reflect, or simply enjoy a moment in time. Thanks for the comment my friend of the briar!
One Peterson. Pain to clean. Savinelli or Edwards or even cobb never a problem. Even a couple of basket pipes enjoyable. Several estate pipes from ytpc friends. Very enjoyable. You’re right. Some overthink things. Will stick with Savinelli purchases in the future unless I find another Edwards. 673 on order. Will smoke the Friday Savinelli with a toast to you! Thanks for the videos.
Watching this reminds me of when I first started out. I wanted an expensive nice Sherlock Holmes pipe to look the part. I thought the more expensive pipes gotta smoke better. Well after a year of smoking, buying and being gifted a good bit of pipes, that has not been the case. Anyone starting out does not need an expensive pipe. Its not about the pipe looking sexy or appealing. Its about the experience of smoking the pipe and sitting there, relaxing and just enjoying it. This of course is my opinion lol.
Mmmmmmmmatches860!!!!!! How did the rest of the yard go ? ...John I just downloaded a video about a pipe I found on eBay ......need some advice from you as always .....thanks my friend ......
Hi Matches. Great video once again.Your opinion is highly regarded by many people including myself and I would appreciate yout opinion on a tobacco I recently bought that I think you would like a lot.Gawith and hoggarth "Coniston cut plug".I think it is the best smoke I have had for a while and would like your opinion on it. I would like to send you a sample of this tobacco for your opinion, would you mind if I did this.I have never sent a sample before and don't know how to do this so if you can help me with this I will get a sample to you for your opinion, regards Wayne
Hi Wayne! I just saw an ad for this at 4Noggins, which is where I get my stuff from. I'll pick some up next order and review it. Many thanks for the kind words!
You made some great points. There a lot of variables that make a great pipe, and cost isn't one of them. I have some high dollar rack queens that smoke badly, and I have some low end pipes that smoke like a dream.
Bought a Friday Savinelli yesterday in honor of you, John. From your favorite virtual pipe shop - The Pipe Nook! Though I have had incredible smokes out of my $7 cob - as you said; it’s mostly about the time & place, not the pipe 😊
I'm new to the hobby, but I've acquired a few pipes so far. I have a Peterson and Rattray's that I love. But I also have a Highway Nine starter pipe that probably costs about 30 bucks by itself (it came in a kit). But I love that pipe too! Smokes great! Not a thing wrong with it .
My Butz Choquins don't smoke as good as my Peterson's but my Peterson's don't smoke as good as my Savinelli's. My Dunhill smokes better then all of them it's just drilled perfectly and smokes wonderfully, about as good as my cobs. ;) cheers
Hi Matches! Great video once again! Couldn't agree with you more. I have a nice collection of Peterson's, Savinelli's, Stanwell's, etc., however, some of my cobs and Grabow's smoke just as well. The experience of it all is what really matters and makes the hobby magical for me. The total package is what's really important. The pipe, the tobacco, the friends, the place. Have a great weekend! -Jim
Oh i wanted to tell Matches about a peterson's pipe i am chasing. Wel it is just a stem and a bowl you put your tobacco in and smoke it. Thanks Matches hahahahaha.
Hi John, my comment to Alex is just the right to you: This is an everlasting contemporary issue. I have new and expensive pipes just as cheaper new and estate pipes or corncops. My first pipe was a new Winslow Crown Collector. I don`t want to boast, but today I`m very glad about that, because till this day it is my best smoker, and my heart set on it much more than on other pipes and I don`t knwo, if I would be still a smoker without this pipe. Otherwise I love to smoke a corncop some days. I think it is important how I connected to every single pipe and what a day it is. Perhaps in some years I`ll see it different, I dont know, my experiences will show me the way. We can advice someone an in our eyes good pipe, but everyone will and have to make their own experiences, the same thing to tobaccos. And most of the members in the YTC show how to do a good job! Thank you for this!!!
The Riflemans quota?interresting name ,i love Rus Oulettes creations but this is new to me ,who sell it cause i didnt finded it at the Smoking Pipes list
So true I was out on the river running lines and had 2 pipes with me a Medico guardsman and a yellow-Bole . Let’s just say that the catfish were jumping in the boat 🚣♀️. And I had some Half n Half . I can’t remember a better smoking experience to date. Enjoyed your time
Oh jeeze same here! I had no clue until I subscribed to Pipes & Tobaccos magazine...and with that, there's no two way dialog like we have with the internet now. Oh well, we were pioneers!
I'm glad you mentioned to older Grabow's ect. I own 10-12 of these types and still smoke them all the time. They are dirt cheap and smoke great. I enjoy that they have age on them.
Yup. A pipe is just a vessel in which to smoke good tobacco. Over-complicating it just reduces the art of smoking a pipe to a race to keep up with the Joneses.. Brilliant video, as always
Good one, matches! And yes, psychology is a big factor. In fact, it comes to play in most hobbies or endeavors. I have a set of criteria I've developed over 40 yrs of smoking pipes. They seem to work for me. would they work for you? Who really knows. And yea, a pipe wants you to find the right tobacco. That is common in my experience.
Awesome way to keep perspective!!!! Corncobs I'm not a big fan due to mouthpieces. I clench and chew so I like volcanite, having to learn to like acrylic stems. Have a good one!
I agree 100%. I love collecting all makes and models from peterson/savinelli to cobs and grabows. I always come back to my cobs and grabows after all your not smoking the name.
Very good Vid, I Started out years a go as a Occasional Pipe Smoker, mostly because I enjoyed smoking and Using two Hands on my Hobbies, I always Had a Couple Of Dr Grabow Larks, and thats my go to pipe Today, light short smoke, and easy on the Teeth..I now have tried a Few MM and like them as well, I figure if I get Budget Pipes I can afford to Buy and Try More Tobacco's...Cheers!!!
Thanks for sharing your experience & knowledge. I always enjoy your videos so keep up the good work. Just about to push the sub for you (actually it's really for me :) BTU)
Hello Matches. I'm pretty much a cigar smoker, but like to watch your videos. I find them very relaxing. I would like to know if you could either suggest, or better still, do a video on some good pipe cigar blends you may have tried. Thank you.
There's a subject that is right up my alley! Not being a card carrying cigar smoker, it may be difficult for me to know what a cigar smoker might be looking for, but I can give it a shot. Thanks for the idea!
Hi John, Truly fantastic video. Really inspirational. You speak the truth and I love your honesty and perspective. Great advice and you give confidence and clarity. 'm only just getting started with pipe smoking and have some budget pipes but I'm loving them and hope that in 20 years I will look back on my first pipes and still be use them. Thanks again.
Darren Purdie Thank you Darren, sometimes you get a bad pipe, and sometimes you get an average pipe that becomes your all time favorite for any number of reasons which may or may not have to do with the pipe itself. Even a bad pipe tastes very good when you have nothing else!
Hey! Love your videos! And they have lead me to try tobaccos I have never even heard of from places I didn't know existed! Like peretti blends! I loved trying the old blends from people that been in the business longer than I have been alive. That leads to my question, do you have any other recommendations of house blends from great tobacconists? Stuff I will never find on pipes and cigars! Also I hate to ask another question but I am also a collector of books and learning lost art forms... Do you have any suggestions on good books on the subject of pipes and tobacco? Especially on blending tobaccos. I don't know if there is such a thing as a recipe book for blending! Thanks again and keep the vids coming!
Thank you Michael! So many tobacconist's house blends are really just popular brands which the tobacconist has renamed. Perretti of course is an exception as they've been in business so long. The only tobacco related book I can recommend is The Ultimate Pipe Book by Richard Hacker...a very nice read.
Very well done! I have always felt the same regarding pipes and smoking expierience. In my dozen plus collection of pipes my inhereted Grabows have given me the pleasure of a great smoke. One pipe I have, and I am sad because I broke the stem, was the best smoker in my collection and it a rusticated bent Grabow my father had and while enlarging the draft hole I accidentily drilled through the bowl ( I know ) I found a maple twig on the ground shaped it and plugged the hole. Even after still the best smoker until I dropped it and broke the stem.
Oh my, I ruined a B-C pipe trying to drill the airway so a pipe cleaner could pass. The bit slipped and of course came out the bottom of the bowl. I was somewhat pissed off! Luckily, I had not fallen in love with the pipe yet.
Hello, would you discuss different categories of tobaccos in terms of using a pipe for a certain type of tobacco. For example "there are xxx different types of tobacco, they are blank, blank, and blank, and you should have pipes for each category and not mix them." It is as simple as aromatic tobacco pipes and non aromatic pipes? Or do you recommend having a different set of pipes for orientals, virginias, english, ect. I'm really struggling with this as my collection starts to develop. Also short of asking a tobacconist you trust face to face, is there a sure fire way to tell these categories apart? Just because it smells good doesn't mean it is aromatic or flavored does it?
I too started with Grabows and Kaywoodies. Had many of good smokes from them especially the Omega. I currently have a Kaywoodie gold burl that i love ! As far as seconds sometimes youll find a Savinelli in a basket. It will have a balsa filter in it as a givaway. I have one that smokes as good as my Trevi ! I too have a Peterson that just doesnt cut it, lol ! I think when you get used to a Savinelli nothing else will do. They are my favorite pipes.
Exactly. My first smoke after work is always tastes the best. No matter pipe or tobacco. I have the same Peterson system pipe. I throw a half Savinelli filter in the reservoir and make use of the army mount and detach and blow out the spit. Love it. Cool dry smoke.
hi from greece. i have drill all of my pipes at 4mm and i had no more juices in my mouth. a dry cooler smoke. u r very informative. thanks. keep doing the good job my friend.
Hello John. Wow, this video was a real treat. A masterpiece! Great thoughts, suggestions and topic. Enjoyed every minute of it, hope you are having a great weekend. Regards Mark
Thank you Mark! I had been tossing around the idea for a few months and I guess the time was right. Lots of melting going on since we've moved above freezing at least for the short term! Thanks for coming by!
None of mine have drains in the reservoirs either. Interesting idea though, I could drill a hole in the shank where the base of the reservoir is and keep a plug in it until it's in need of draining.
Tough question, as I know a Chinese maker or two, but also have heard negative experiences with Chinese pipes.Let's say I'd be cautious. Other than that, I'm pretty adventurous.
I bet you are absolutely spot on when you add the environment to the pipe and how wonderful it could become. Perfect settings always influence our moods. Thanks for sharing your knowledge, us younglings to the hobby greatly appreciate it.
Thanks Colin, in thinking about the best smokes I ever had, some came about after not having a smoke for longer than usual while others involved being in a great location and frame of mind. Sweet Smokes to you Buddy!
I bought a Savinelli 320KS as my first pipe, then a month later a Missouri Meerschaum cob pipe. I was so surprised by how well the cob smoked, I kicked myself for buying the Savinelli first, in case I didn't want to continue the hobby.
I still get that question most often..."What should I get as my first pipe?" Many people understand the reasoning behind getting a cob first, but a few folks want to dive in head first with cash streaming behind them. Oh well, what are ya' gonna do?
I was naive and didn't even think about cobs until later when surfing TH-cam. But that's ok, I like both pipes and I will most likely continue as long as the wife continues to tolerate it...lol.
Theres nothing like picking out a basket pipe for 35 dollars and finding a balsa filter in the stem, its like striking gold because you know its a Savinelli 2nd ! Some of my best smokers. I started out on Grabows back in the early 80s when they had a blue spade on them, had many of good smokes from them loaded mainly with London Dock or Middletons 5.
John, finally, someone puts the reasons for having a pipe in perspective....I have always been a firm believer that a pipe should be taken care of, but to put the bloody thing on a pedestal and admire it for its beauty, do that while its being smoked...My saying is, it is a vessel for smoking a great tobacco, if it does that then great....... John, nice to see you again and great smokes to you....Cheers, Big
Hi Big! I have to thank some folks on FB for the inspiration for this. I enjoy good pipe conversation, but it needs to be kept in perspective. A pipe is a tool for pleasure and whatever else you get out of it psychologically needs to be discussed within that framework...Sweet Smokes!
If you have a thin walled pipe, it will smoke hot. For a normal pipe, if it's getting very hot, I'd say you have to slow down a bit. I tend to be a fast puffer myself and all my pipes get hot.
Great video. I started off with a cob from my local tobacconist here in 716 and paired it with a house blend aromatic. It was okay. THEN not too long ago I bought a $30 basket pipe from Tinderbox along with some FM Cellar. Holy cow what a difference. I noticed the Czech pipe drew better and the Cellar was a cool burn. I don't smoke often, but I do look forward to my basket pipe. I have a Sav 320 on my wish list.
im a new subscriber and a huge fan. I have been smoking a pipe since the 80s. I dont think ive ever had more than three pipes at once. one for straight Virginias, one for English blends, and one for other. Just found the ones that worked best for the job. I am in the process of getting a Pauls pipe. Anyway, thanks for taking time to share your thoughts.
They replaced the pipe with another and the draft hole was 3/8" off the bottom. Wondering if this retailer was selling seconds for first quality prices.
Thanks for the video Matches, I just recently started watching you, I'm a new subscriber as of last week. I'm also a relatively new pipe smoker (mostly have smoked cigars) I love your videos, I have gone crazy trying to understand what pipes to buy and what tobaccos to try, I tried your Haunted Book Shop and my head spun in circles. Too much nicotine for me, but liked the taste. I really enjoy your stories and knowledge. Keep up the videos, they help guys like me tremendously. Have a great weekend, Cheers.
Hi Scott, and thanks for the support! Haunted Bookshop is no place to start a tobacco journey LOL. However, you learned you don't like a lot of nicotine but want the taste. John Patton's Storm Front, or maybe a flake of some sort may be more to your liking. Ask around and keep sampling stuff, you'll narrow down the things you're looking for. A great week-end to you also!
Matches860 Hi John, is the amount of nicotine in *_Haunted Book Shop_* comparable to the amount of *_Peterson's Irish Flake_*? Because this tobacco has been much too strong for me (besides the taste of cigars). Have a great weekend!!
Great video and great advice as always! I look forward to watching your videos every week. I have to say my first pipe was a Grabow. And it's still one of my favorites. Now that I think about it, it may not be because it's my best smoker (which it's not), but more because of the memories it brings up. In the right mind set, it's the "best smoke ever". Thanks for the insightful video. Keep 'em coming. We love watching!
Great stuff John. Anyone who has smoked for years have had a Dr. Grabow or other "drug store" pipes for sure. That's is how I started in the 70's and added corncobs and then moved on and purchased basket pipes. I have a Tinder Box brand pipe that has always smoked great and I'll bet I didn't pay $20 for it. Be well and all the best, Bill I hope the warmer weather is hitting your area by now.
Hi Bill, yeah, the Grabows and a few others used to be the only game in town for the average Joe. I can't say enough about basket pipes and seconds...hidden gems! Have a good week-end my friend!
Every video i watch of yours i am just in total awe of that massive pipe collection. So amazing. Makes me look at my 3 antiques and 2 cobs and frown. HA HA HA. Love the info you pass on! Thanks.
Excellent talk on the subject John!. I've found that watching videos of pipers enjoying a certain pipe that I'm interested in buying has helped me to pick a few winners. I bought my Savinelli 673 Roma from watching your videos and I couldn't be happier with it! Going sight unseen or not being able to see how well it smokes is difficult. I only keep the winners in my collection (with only a few exceptions that I've sold for financial reasons) and my pipe collection is one that I can say has none that smoke any less than fantastically. I might have to do the video I was planning along these lines discussing what makes a pipe a/the favorite pipe.
Sounds like a fantastic topic! The #673 (for me) has a comfortable shape and of course there is something about Savinelli briar I adore. Beyond that, and of no interest to anyone but me, that pipe signals the start of my week-end.
As always John, a great video! When I got back into Pipes, I knew the best way to go was to buy a good Missouri Meerchaum Corn Cobb. That way if I didn't like it, I would know I had given it a fair shot with a good pipe that hadn't set me back $100.++. And now, I have my beautiful Savinelli's, Petersons and Nording's. I do have a beautiful new Turkish Meerchaum, but its still sits un-smoked. I am uns-sure IF I will like it. Quick question, I have a similar Pipe to your "Friday Sav", is that a Savinelli Roma Lucite KS 677? It looks the same. Anyway, thank you for taking the time out, I know its an effort. I am curious, what kind of work do you do when you're not making brilliant videos? Thanks! Dan
Oh Dan, you're making me work! The Friday Savinelli is a #673 Roma, slightly different. I call it a bulldog, some call it a Rhodesian. I've been hooked on lucite stems since I found them on Butz-Choquin pipes years ago. I've worked around senior citizens since I was old enough to work. For the last 27 years I've been a facility manager at an apartment complex for seniors here in CT. The facility is very much like assisted living or, just short of a nursing home.
Something that I've recently discovered after smoking a pipe for 25 years is that the best looking pipes are not always the best smoking pipes. I've picked up 3 "ugly stick" pipes from the Pipe Nook that have become my favorite smoking pipes. Some of the best looking pipes that I've "had" to buy don't even come close to the smoking experience that I've had with those pipes.
Yep, I experienced the same thing. I got a "free" old Kaywoodie with a cracked bowl that surpassed most of my newer purchased pipes. You just never know!
Nice video, my dad had a stand full of Dr. Grabows. It was what was available in that era before being able to order online. I have a couple of Grabows myself and enjoy them a lot. Love your channel, thanks for passing on your knowledge of pipes and life in general.
I find myself watching your videos multiple times. even ones that don't particularly pertain to what I need to know. or ones that ive viewed times before. when I have a bit of free time I just pull up the computer and watch..your videos are great and have given me much to think about. ive also learned a great deal from you. when I started smoking a pipe your simple explanations and calming demeanor gave me the interest to keep getting acquainted with my pipes. so long story short..thank you for the great videos and keep them coming.
Great video. Many thanks, John! We miss you
I agree with you 100% Matches! Any pipe will do, especially if u cant smoke as much like me, and u r in a nice setting.
I love spring n summer, in the morning while watering the veggie garden, i like to sit down wiith a pipe and coffee and RELAX
Great video as always
Doug
I'm right there with you Doug! The pipe becomes a part of the whole outdoor experience...leaf,fire,smoke...it's awesome!
Matches, thank you for pointing me to this video. I have enjoyed all the pipes I have so far...even though the collection is limited.
Clayton Douglas Oh yes, and your favorites now will most likely take a back seat as you find new ones, but you'll always come back to them for a thrill!
Matches has to be one of the greatest i have ever listen too
One question that I haven't heard much about is small vs. large diameter inner chambers. To me, it seems like if you want to keep your bowl cool, it'd be easier with a wide diameter inner chamber. I like my small pipes for a quick bowl, but I find it takes more control to keep them from being harsh and bitey.
A great topic indeed. There is a lot to bowl size/thickness which could be discussed. If I get the chance, we'll explore that subject.
Excellent video with some great points made. I, funny enough was just thinking about this topic and doing a follow-up so I am uploading a follow-up to your wonderful video. Nice brainstorming with you across the miles!
Great info! I love your talks. I completely agree that it's more important to enjoy the moment than details. :)
Thanks a lot for watching & commenting John!
Great video and good advice John. I myself go through stages where I'll smoke a weeks rotation of bent pipes then switch to straight billiards and then corncobs. I find the week I am smoking the cobs is when I have some of my best smokes. Cobs for me just feel traditional and old worldly. I love'em.
I know the feeling with cobs, that's why they've been around forever!
Great video!
Thanks Michael! Sweet Smokes!
Thank you for the perspective. Great video.
Another great video. And I agree with you 100% on everything you said. It's crazy because I have a Dunhill and a stanwell that are great pipes. But I smoke my Dr grabow royal duke and my mm mark twain more than anything. Now my Dagner poker cob gets a lot of attention. Again great video.
+sasquatch It's pretty funny what we gravitate to and when. My most expensive pipe is very eye appealing but doesn't really do much for me as a smoker. Give me a junkie pipe any old day!
Decided to re-watch this video after watching birdman talk about it. Enjoyed it again. Bought first pipes in mid 1970s, Grabows, Medicos, don’t remember Yellow Bowls sold down here, lots of basket pipes. Smoked the drug store tobaccos, Sail, Amphora, etc. Smoked a lot of Flying Dutchman. No longer made. Recently bought a “like Flying Dutchman.” I guess it’s best to let memories be memories. Not what I remember at all.
Anyway, I agree one can get great smokes from all kinds of pipes. I now like pipes with some heft. I like thick walls. Feels good in my hand, and all of that kind of thing is part of the pipe smoking experience. I enjoy my collection of Eric Nording pipes and a new Savinelli Poker.
But the most enjoyable part of pipe smoking is the moment.
I also smoke a lot of cigars, which I greatly enjoy, but cigars require attention to the burn, pipe smoking is a self-contained moment. If you smoke slowly, you can soak up the tobacco flavor and the tactile feel of the briar on your fingers holding the pipe.
Total bliss. (or as you say “fantastic)
Greatly enjoy your videos. Greetings from a brother of the briar.
Blue Dog "The moment"...so well put! I do believe we pipe smokers have some fantastic times not experienced by others. A chance to ponder,reflect, or simply enjoy a moment in time. Thanks for the comment my friend of the briar!
One Peterson. Pain to clean. Savinelli or Edwards or even cobb never a problem. Even a couple of basket pipes enjoyable. Several estate pipes from ytpc friends. Very enjoyable. You’re right. Some overthink things. Will stick with Savinelli purchases in the future unless I find another Edwards. 673 on order. Will smoke the Friday Savinelli with a toast to you! Thanks for the videos.
Watching this reminds me of when I first started out. I wanted an expensive nice Sherlock Holmes pipe to look the part. I thought the more expensive pipes gotta smoke better. Well after a year of smoking, buying and being gifted a good bit of pipes, that has not been the case. Anyone starting out does not need an expensive pipe. Its not about the pipe looking sexy or appealing. Its about the experience of smoking the pipe and sitting there, relaxing and just enjoying it. This of course is my opinion lol.
Mmmmmmmmatches860!!!!!! How did the rest of the yard go ? ...John I just downloaded a video about a pipe I found on eBay ......need some advice from you as always .....thanks my friend ......
+Pipes And kayaks Backyard done! I still have the front to clean-up but it's smaller.
Hi Matches.
Great video once again.Your opinion is highly regarded by many people including myself and I would appreciate yout opinion on a tobacco I recently bought that I think you would like a lot.Gawith and hoggarth "Coniston cut plug".I think it is the best smoke I have had for a while and would like your opinion on it. I would like to send you a sample of this tobacco for your opinion, would you mind if I did this.I have never sent a sample before and don't know how to do this so if you can help me with this I will get a sample to you for your opinion,
regards
Wayne
Hi Wayne! I just saw an ad for this at 4Noggins, which is where I get my stuff from. I'll pick some up next order and review it. Many thanks for the kind words!
I love my grabow some of the best pipes in the world
Great video, John. You pretty much nailed it. Given the right environment, any pipe is going to be a good one.
I can't pay atention to what you say. When I'm stressed I simply put some of your videos and unwind :-) (Excuse my poor English)
I do the same thing something about him is relaxing.
It's sad that hes gone, have a great day.
Great advice. I am so glad your content remains my friend. I miss the stories, but I cherish the ability to rewatch past stories.
Sure do miss you John...Smoking my pipe this evening remembering you my friend. Thanks for everything 💨😇
You made some great points. There a lot of variables that make a great pipe, and cost isn't one of them. I have some high dollar rack queens that smoke badly, and I have some low end pipes that smoke like a dream.
I think we're all in the same boat. The search for the perfect pipe is like the search for perfect tobacco. A lot of it is in the mind me thinks.
Bought a Friday Savinelli yesterday in honor of you, John. From your favorite virtual pipe shop - The Pipe Nook! Though I have had incredible smokes out of my $7 cob - as you said; it’s mostly about the time & place, not the pipe 😊
I'm new to the hobby, but I've acquired a few pipes so far. I have a Peterson and Rattray's that I love. But I also have a Highway Nine starter pipe that probably costs about 30 bucks by itself (it came in a kit). But I love that pipe too! Smokes great! Not a thing wrong with it .
What´s that pipe from Czech John? Is it BPK or something else? I wonder, sice I live there..
Thank you, besides the cabinet, I still have a few pipe racks here and there.
I love basket pipes! Not a thing wrong with getting a good basket pipe at all. Besides I'm cheap. LOL (Not really cheap, just always broke).
My Butz Choquins don't smoke as good as my Peterson's but my Peterson's don't smoke as good as my Savinelli's. My Dunhill smokes better then all of them it's just drilled perfectly and smokes wonderfully, about as good as my cobs. ;) cheers
I have a SAVINELLI alagator, the ònline problem it starts to gurgglee,even with a balsa system filter. This pipe is not cheap, so I am disappointed.
Such a great video, my first pipe was a corncob I found at my Father-in-law's house, must have been 30 years old, it smokes like a dream!
Hi Matches! Great video once again! Couldn't agree with you more. I have a nice collection of Peterson's, Savinelli's, Stanwell's, etc., however, some of my cobs and Grabow's smoke just as well. The experience of it all is what really matters and makes the hobby magical for me. The total package is what's really important. The pipe, the tobacco, the friends, the place. Have a great weekend!
-Jim
Oh i wanted to tell Matches about a peterson's pipe i am chasing.
Wel it is just a stem and a bowl you put your tobacco in and smoke it.
Thanks Matches hahahahaha.
Hi John, my comment to Alex is just the right to you:
This is an everlasting contemporary issue. I have new and expensive pipes just as cheaper new and estate pipes or corncops. My first pipe was a new Winslow Crown Collector. I don`t want to boast, but today I`m very glad about that, because till this day it is my best smoker, and my heart set on it much more than on other pipes and I don`t knwo, if I would be still a smoker without this pipe. Otherwise I love to smoke a corncop some days. I think it is important how I connected to every single pipe and what a day it is. Perhaps in some years I`ll see it different, I dont know, my experiences will show me the way. We can advice someone an in our eyes good pipe, but everyone will and have to make their own experiences, the same thing to tobaccos. And most of the members in the YTC show how to do a good job! Thank you for this!!!
Thanks matches. RIP Brother.
The Riflemans quota?interresting name ,i love Rus Oulettes creations but this is new to me ,who sell it cause i didnt finded it at the Smoking Pipes list
Great topic, so many people put too much emphasis on name brands, and or makers.
So true I was out on the river running lines and had 2 pipes with me a Medico guardsman and a yellow-Bole . Let’s just say that the catfish were jumping in the boat 🚣♀️. And I had some Half n Half . I can’t remember a better smoking experience to date. Enjoyed your time
Thanks again for watching!
Great review for the beginner , you covered it all . Wish i had that info 37 years ago . One good peace of info smoke slow and enjoy the relaxing time
Oh jeeze same here! I had no clue until I subscribed to Pipes & Tobaccos magazine...and with that, there's no two way dialog like we have with the internet now. Oh well, we were pioneers!
I'm glad you mentioned to older Grabow's ect. I own 10-12 of these types and still smoke them all the time. They are dirt cheap and smoke great. I enjoy that they have age on them.
Grabows are an important part of pipe smoking in America and often get bad reviews...they helped me get started!
Mmmmatchessssssssssssss 860!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yup. A pipe is just a vessel in which to smoke good tobacco. Over-complicating it just reduces the art of smoking a pipe to a race to keep up with the Joneses.. Brilliant video, as always
Good one, matches! And yes, psychology is a big factor. In fact, it comes to play in most hobbies or endeavors. I have a set of criteria I've developed over 40 yrs of smoking pipes. They seem to work for me. would they work for you? Who really knows. And yea, a pipe wants you to find the right tobacco. That is common in my experience.
There really is a lot more to it than we realize. Many thanks for the comment!
My first pipe was Dr Grabow was my first pipe... Still have it.. Great talk John..
So much of my collection consists of the old greats. I don't regret getting any of them.
Awesome way to keep perspective!!!! Corncobs I'm not a big fan due to mouthpieces. I clench and chew so I like volcanite, having to learn to like acrylic stems. Have a good one!
Yes, many folks get other mouthpieces made that will stand up to clenching. I don't smoke cobs all that often, but I do like them.
I agree 100%. I love collecting all makes and models from peterson/savinelli to cobs and grabows. I always come back to my cobs and grabows after all your not smoking the name.
Very true!
Very good Vid, I Started out years a go as a Occasional Pipe Smoker, mostly because I enjoyed smoking and Using two Hands on my Hobbies, I always Had a Couple Of Dr Grabow Larks, and thats my go to pipe Today, light short smoke, and easy on the Teeth..I now have tried a Few MM and like them as well, I figure if I get Budget Pipes I can afford to Buy and Try More Tobacco's...Cheers!!!
+Bill Alexander Yeah, once you get enough pipes, all your resources can be used for tobacco...it's a good place to be!
Thanks for sharing your experience & knowledge. I always enjoy your videos so keep up the good work. Just about to push the sub for you (actually it's really for me :) BTU)
171Talbingo Thanks so much! I look forward to doing each and every video...it keeps me out of trouble!
Hello Matches. I'm pretty much a cigar smoker, but like to watch your videos. I find them very relaxing. I would like to know if you could either suggest, or better still, do a video on some good pipe cigar blends you may have tried. Thank you.
There's a subject that is right up my alley! Not being a card carrying cigar smoker, it may be difficult for me to know what a cigar smoker might be looking for, but I can give it a shot. Thanks for the idea!
Hi John,
Truly fantastic video. Really inspirational. You speak the truth and I love your honesty and perspective. Great advice and you give confidence and clarity.
'm only just getting started with pipe smoking and have some budget pipes but I'm loving them and hope that in 20 years I will look back on my first pipes and still be use them.
Thanks again.
Darren Purdie Thank you Darren, sometimes you get a bad pipe, and sometimes you get an average pipe that becomes your all time favorite for any number of reasons which may or may not have to do with the pipe itself. Even a bad pipe tastes very good when you have nothing else!
Hey! Love your videos! And they have lead me to try tobaccos I have never even heard of from places I didn't know existed! Like peretti blends! I loved trying the old blends from people that been in the business longer than I have been alive. That leads to my question, do you have any other recommendations of house blends from great tobacconists? Stuff I will never find on pipes and cigars! Also I hate to ask another question but I am also a collector of books and learning lost art forms... Do you have any suggestions on good books on the subject of pipes and tobacco? Especially on blending tobaccos. I don't know if there is such a thing as a recipe book for blending! Thanks again and keep the vids coming!
Thank you Michael! So many tobacconist's house blends are really just popular brands which the tobacconist has renamed. Perretti of course is an exception as they've been in business so long. The only tobacco related book I can recommend is The Ultimate Pipe Book by Richard Hacker...a very nice read.
Very well done! I have always felt the same regarding pipes and smoking expierience. In my dozen plus collection of pipes my inhereted Grabows have given me the pleasure of a great smoke. One pipe I have, and I am sad because I broke the stem, was the best smoker in my collection and it a rusticated bent Grabow my father had and while enlarging the draft hole I accidentily drilled through the bowl ( I know ) I found a maple twig on the ground shaped it and plugged the hole. Even after still the best smoker until I dropped it and broke the stem.
Oh my, I ruined a B-C pipe trying to drill the airway so a pipe cleaner could pass. The bit slipped and of course came out the bottom of the bowl. I was somewhat pissed off! Luckily, I had not fallen in love with the pipe yet.
Hello, would you discuss different categories of tobaccos in terms of using a pipe for a certain type of tobacco. For example "there are xxx different types of tobacco, they are blank, blank, and blank, and you should have pipes for each category and not mix them."
It is as simple as aromatic tobacco pipes and non aromatic pipes? Or do you recommend having a different set of pipes for orientals, virginias, english, ect.
I'm really struggling with this as my collection starts to develop. Also short of asking a tobacconist you trust face to face, is there a sure fire way to tell these categories apart? Just because it smells good doesn't mean it is aromatic or flavored does it?
Excellent questions, perhaps I can do a video tomorrow. Keep an eye open!
I too started with Grabows and Kaywoodies. Had many of good smokes from them especially the Omega. I currently have a Kaywoodie gold burl that i love ! As far as seconds sometimes youll find a Savinelli in a basket. It will have a balsa filter in it as a givaway. I have one that smokes as good as my Trevi ! I too have a Peterson that just doesnt cut it, lol ! I think when you get used to a Savinelli nothing else will do. They are my favorite pipes.
Vince Sun Oh yeah, I'm totally spoiled with Savinelli's.
Exactly. My first smoke after work is always tastes the best. No matter pipe or tobacco. I have the same Peterson system pipe. I throw a half Savinelli filter in the reservoir and make use of the army mount and detach and blow out the spit. Love it. Cool dry smoke.
Yeah boy!
I swear by my $25 Mr. Brogs. I think they are pearwood and not briar but I'm 2 for 2 so far with them.
You can't beat $25.00!
hi from greece. i have drill all of my pipes at 4mm and i had no more juices in my mouth. a dry cooler smoke. u r very informative. thanks. keep doing the good job my friend.
just went on ebay and with shipping I got a vintage Riviera Dr Grabow for 14.20. hope it was at a good price and yes this is my very 1st pipe
Congrats! Yeah, very good price in my opinion. Enjoy!
now that's a man sized bowl!
Hello John.
Wow, this video was a real treat. A masterpiece!
Great thoughts, suggestions and topic.
Enjoyed every minute of it, hope you are having a great weekend.
Regards
Mark
Thank you Mark! I had been tossing around the idea for a few months and I guess the time was right. Lots of melting going on since we've moved above freezing at least for the short term! Thanks for coming by!
gday mate as you know my first pipe was my grandads falcon pipe.
A grandads pipe would be great to have! You're very lucky!
Great talk. The best first pipe is whatever ya start off with bc that will begin to set the tone for all the upcoming pipes. Lol.
There's an interesting thought. Kinda like, your best smoke hasn't happened yet.
Matches860 You sir, are my hero. Awesome advice thanks for the video....
LOL, I'm speechless!
I had a Peterson standard system. Problem was that they never drilled the reservoir drain,and it always smoked wet.
None of mine have drains in the reservoirs either. Interesting idea though, I could drill a hole in the shank where the base of the reservoir is and keep a plug in it until it's in need of draining.
John, is there any place you wouldn't buy a pipe from? By that I mean country (China for example)
Tough question, as I know a Chinese maker or two, but also have heard negative experiences with Chinese pipes.Let's say I'd be cautious. Other than that, I'm pretty adventurous.
Are there any pipe smoking groups on Facebook?
Thank you
There are many pipe groups on Facebook, the problem is trying not to join them all...it really clogs your news feed LOL
I bet you are absolutely spot on when you add the environment to the pipe and how wonderful it could become. Perfect settings always influence our moods. Thanks for sharing your knowledge, us younglings to the hobby greatly appreciate it.
Thanks Colin, in thinking about the best smokes I ever had, some came about after not having a smoke for longer than usual while others involved being in a great location and frame of mind. Sweet Smokes to you Buddy!
I bought a Savinelli 320KS as my first pipe, then a month later a Missouri Meerschaum cob pipe. I was so surprised by how well the cob smoked, I kicked myself for buying the Savinelli first, in case I didn't want to continue the hobby.
I still get that question most often..."What should I get as my first pipe?" Many people understand the reasoning behind getting a cob first, but a few folks want to dive in head first with cash streaming behind them. Oh well, what are ya' gonna do?
I was naive and didn't even think about cobs until later when surfing TH-cam. But that's ok, I like both pipes and I will most likely continue as long as the wife continues to tolerate it...lol.
A few of my $10 basket pipes from the 80's are my best smokers.
Same here! $11-15 went a long way back then!
Theres nothing like picking out a basket pipe for 35 dollars and finding a balsa filter in the stem, its like striking gold because you know its a Savinelli 2nd ! Some of my best smokers. I started out on Grabows back in the early 80s when they had a blue spade on them, had many of good smokes from them loaded mainly with London Dock or Middletons 5.
+Vince Sun I never had the pleasure of getting a Savinelli out of a basket...that would be the best!
+Matches860 Typically the 101 and 111 shape billiards you will find as 2nds sometime the 614 shape too but they are not as common.
Great chat John. Great insight and "tour" of your early pipes. I love the cat meow at 10:36
***** LOL, the cat talks to a chipmunk that lives between the foundation and front steps. They go back & forth all the time!
Matches860 PLEASE DO A VIDEO OF THAT!!!!!
***** I'll try to catch them on camera next time.
Fantastic John. By any chance do you own a 614 Savinelli? I’m looking at getting one in feb to celebrate my 12mnths :)
No, that shape doesn't appeal to me after smoking the slightly bent bulldogs for so long, but don't let that stop you!
Matches860 just noticed it’s what sgt savinelli smokes. Definitely going to get one. :) love that “hang”
I can never tell the difference between a saxophone and Oom Paul. Yeah, Sarge does the saxophone shapes.
Am I the only one who finds the Matches860 vids to be extremely cool? Love these and could watch them for hours.
+Jason Desjardins Now there's a comment to brighten my day! Thanks so much Jason!
John, finally, someone puts the reasons for having a pipe in perspective....I have always been a firm believer that a pipe should be taken care of, but to put the bloody thing on a pedestal and admire it for its beauty, do that while its being smoked...My saying is, it is a vessel for smoking a great tobacco, if it does that then great.......
John, nice to see you again and great smokes to you....Cheers, Big
Hi Big! I have to thank some folks on FB for the inspiration for this. I enjoy good pipe conversation, but it needs to be kept in perspective. A pipe is a tool for pleasure and whatever else you get out of it psychologically needs to be discussed within that framework...Sweet Smokes!
As always John, a very excellent video....Well done my friend, well done....Cheers Big
Thanks Tim! Sweet Smokes!
Great video! Solid content for the beginners. Nothing wrong with a cob... Have a great weekend. -Michael
Just a quick question every time I smoke my pipe the bowl gets hot why does that happen??
If you have a thin walled pipe, it will smoke hot. For a normal pipe, if it's getting very hot, I'd say you have to slow down a bit. I tend to be a fast puffer myself and all my pipes get hot.
Thanks
Great video. I started off with a cob from my local tobacconist here in 716 and paired it with a house blend aromatic. It was okay. THEN not too long ago I bought a $30 basket pipe from Tinderbox along with some FM Cellar. Holy cow what a difference. I noticed the Czech pipe drew better and the Cellar was a cool burn. I don't smoke often, but I do look forward to my basket pipe. I have a Sav 320 on my wish list.
im a new subscriber and a huge fan. I have been smoking a pipe since the 80s. I dont think ive ever had more than three pipes at once. one for straight Virginias, one for English blends, and one for other. Just found the ones that worked best for the job. I am in the process of getting a Pauls pipe. Anyway, thanks for taking time to share your thoughts.
Thanks for another enjoyable video John. Have a great weekend. Chris Nichol.
Started with corncobs and got three unfinshished savinellis for 90€ quit and cound not be happier :-)
They replaced the pipe with another and the draft hole was 3/8" off the bottom. Wondering if this retailer was selling seconds for first quality prices.
Thanks for the video Matches, I just recently started watching you, I'm a new subscriber as of last week. I'm also a relatively new pipe smoker (mostly have smoked cigars) I love your videos, I have gone crazy trying to understand what pipes to buy and what tobaccos to try, I tried your Haunted Book Shop and my head spun in circles. Too much nicotine for me, but liked the taste. I really enjoy your stories and knowledge. Keep up the videos, they help guys like me tremendously. Have a great weekend, Cheers.
Hi Scott, and thanks for the support! Haunted Bookshop is no place to start a tobacco journey LOL. However, you learned you don't like a lot of nicotine but want the taste. John Patton's Storm Front, or maybe a flake of some sort may be more to your liking. Ask around and keep sampling stuff, you'll narrow down the things you're looking for. A great week-end to you also!
Matches860 Hi John,
is the amount of nicotine in *_Haunted Book Shop_* comparable to the amount of *_Peterson's Irish Flake_*? Because this tobacco has been much too strong for me (besides the taste of cigars).
Have a great weekend!!
Lars Hermanns Oh my, I've only had University Flake, which, as I recall, had a fair amount of nicotine. Yes, Haunted Bookshop can take you for a spin.
Matches860 For a spin? => The ideal tobacco prior to going out for waltz dancing... ;-))
Great tips, thank you sir! Cheers - Tim
Great video and great advice as always! I look forward to watching your videos every week. I have to say my first pipe was a Grabow. And it's still one of my favorites. Now that I think about it, it may not be because it's my best smoker (which it's not), but more because of the memories it brings up. In the right mind set, it's the "best smoke ever". Thanks for the insightful video. Keep 'em coming. We love watching!
great words fro a great man
+leaf smoker Well, I don't know LOL
Great stuff John. Anyone who has smoked for years have had a Dr. Grabow or other "drug store" pipes for sure. That's is how I started in the 70's and added corncobs and then moved on and purchased basket pipes. I have a Tinder Box brand pipe that has always smoked great and I'll bet I didn't pay $20 for it. Be well and all the best, Bill I hope the warmer weather is hitting your area by now.
Hi Bill, yeah, the Grabows and a few others used to be the only game in town for the average Joe. I can't say enough about basket pipes and seconds...hidden gems! Have a good week-end my friend!
Excellent video, great thoughts! I concur!
Always a pleasure to watch your videos; they are very relaxing and informative.
Hi matches great philosophy on pipes best wishes richard.
great video with excellent advice ;)
Best advice I ever got about buying pipes.
Every video i watch of yours i am just in total awe of that massive pipe collection. So amazing. Makes me look at my 3 antiques and 2 cobs and frown. HA HA HA. Love the info you pass on! Thanks.
I started out in the same situation! Luckily, those were my "favorites" and carried me along as the collection grew.Thanks for watching!
Excellent talk on the subject John!. I've found that watching videos of pipers enjoying a certain pipe that I'm interested in buying has helped me to pick a few winners. I bought my Savinelli 673 Roma from watching your videos and I couldn't be happier with it! Going sight unseen or not being able to see how well it smokes is difficult. I only keep the winners in my collection (with only a few exceptions that I've sold for financial reasons) and my pipe collection is one that I can say has none that smoke any less than fantastically.
I might have to do the video I was planning along these lines discussing what makes a pipe a/the favorite pipe.
Sounds like a fantastic topic! The #673 (for me) has a comfortable shape and of course there is something about Savinelli briar I adore. Beyond that, and of no interest to anyone but me, that pipe signals the start of my week-end.
As always John, a great video! When I got back into Pipes, I knew the best way to go was to buy a good Missouri Meerchaum Corn Cobb. That way if I didn't like it, I would know I had given it a fair shot with a good pipe that hadn't set me back $100.++. And now, I have my beautiful Savinelli's, Petersons and Nording's. I do have a beautiful new Turkish Meerchaum, but its still sits un-smoked. I am uns-sure IF I will like it. Quick question, I have a similar Pipe to your "Friday Sav", is that a Savinelli Roma Lucite KS 677? It looks the same.
Anyway, thank you for taking the time out, I know its an effort. I am curious, what kind of work do you do when you're not making brilliant videos?
Thanks! Dan
Oh Dan, you're making me work! The Friday Savinelli is a #673 Roma, slightly different. I call it a bulldog, some call it a Rhodesian. I've been hooked on lucite stems since I found them on Butz-Choquin pipes years ago. I've worked around senior citizens since I was old enough to work. For the last 27 years I've been a facility manager at an apartment complex for seniors here in CT. The facility is very much like assisted living or, just short of a nursing home.
Something that I've recently discovered after smoking a pipe for 25 years is that the best looking pipes are not always the best smoking pipes. I've picked up 3 "ugly stick" pipes from the Pipe Nook that have become my favorite smoking pipes. Some of the best looking pipes that I've "had" to buy don't even come close to the smoking experience that I've had with those pipes.
Yep, I experienced the same thing. I got a "free" old Kaywoodie with a cracked bowl that surpassed most of my newer purchased pipes. You just never know!
Nice video, my dad had a stand full of Dr. Grabows. It was what was available in that era before being able to order online. I have a couple of Grabows myself and enjoy them a lot. Love your channel, thanks for passing on your knowledge of pipes and life in general.
Yes, before the internet, we were very limited in pipes readily available to us. Thankfully, these drugstore pipes did the trick!
I find myself watching your videos multiple times. even ones that don't particularly pertain to what I need to know. or ones that ive viewed times before. when I have a bit of free time I just pull up the computer and watch..your videos are great and have given me much to think about. ive also learned a great deal from you. when I started smoking a pipe your simple explanations and calming demeanor gave me the interest to keep getting acquainted with my pipes. so long story short..thank you for the great videos and keep them coming.
+yooperdewper Thank you for such kind words! I hope to keep them coming as long as possible!
Great video John! A good weekend to you as well my friend!
Thanks for coming by Olivier! Always glad to see you!
One of the best smokes I have had in a good long while was actually in a Dr. Grabow Big Pipe just the other day.
+Christian Blade I can believe it! Grabow's have given me a number of good smokes also.
Great Talk !!!!