Best Tobacco Pipes: Buyer’s Guide

Are you searching for the best tobacco pipes? If so, you’re not alone. Despite the rise in popularity of cigarettes and cigars in the 20th century, today, tobacco pipes are once again gaining favor, and for good reason. Not only can a single bowl of flavorful, aromatic tobacco last for up to an hour, but the contemplative and reflective nature of sitting down with a tobacco pipe is a pleasant alternative worth savoring and enjoying. That being said, finding a great tobacco pipe is easier said than done. With so many sizes, shapes, and materials to choose from, you could spend hours of trial and error trying to find the right tobacco pipe for you. That’s where we come in. Whether you’re new to pipe smoking or a seasoned aficionado, we created this buyer’s guide to help you find the perfect tobacco pipe for your budget, lifestyle, and sensibilities. Enjoy!

Best Tobacco Pipe Reviews

Savinelli – Best in Style

Description

The Savinelli billiard style Italian Smoking Pipe is one of the best in class for those who love briarwood pipes with skilled artisan looks. The Savinelli brand has been around since 1876, so they know what they’re doing when it comes to building a superior pipe. This pipe has a lovely look to it and feels good in your hand with a straight Billiard shape that lets you go hands-free. Savinelli is synonymous with Milan, Italy, so you can feel that hand-carved craftsmanship when you hold it in your hand or look at it in the light. It’s truly a beautiful pipe that looks more expensive than it is.

Features

This pipe has a royal blue color and is in the Arcobaleno series, which means Rainbow in Italian. There are three finishes in this series, including green and smooth seal brown. The best thing about this pipe is the way that it pulls and gives you that air of rich briar for those first few puffs. The smoke is consistent and smooth with each take. In addition, the price isn’t so bad for the quality of the pipe. You can see the craftsmanship in the fine lines and color of this pipe. It even has the perfect bowl depth and height. This pipe is also a conversation starter, so be prepared to get lots of compliments.

Verdict

We love that the Savinelli pipe comes in so many different finishes. Most pipes are made from briarwood, but it’s nice to see that Savinelli has taken the time to hand-carve these pipes so they look unique. The smoke pull is rich and consistent throughout. You’ll love pulling out this piece in front of your friends at the poker table or co-workers.

4th Generation Tobacco Pipes – Beautiful Handcrafted Briar Pipe

Description

The Danish company 4th Generation has been in the business of making unique tobacco pipes for many years. This 1957 style is crafted in the same shape as their original vintage pipes. Made from briarwood, this pipe has a tan finish that gives off a classic look. Unlike other pipes, the 4th Generation is made to rest in your mouth. It’s easy to puff away and get a good pull just from holding the stem on your lips. However, the whole pipe isn’t made from wood. The black and brown contrast nicely, however.

Verdict

For a no-fuss type of pipe, we were expecting a lower price, but this is all-natural wood. You can smell and taste the briar within the first few pulls. We also liked how durable the pipe was. Even though it was dropped, it showed no signs of wear. This pipe comes with a protective sock and box.

Verdict

Anyone who wants a classic pipe with a natural wood feel will enjoy this vintage piece. The bowl has a different shape with a narrower hole than we typically like, but it’s great for getting a consistent smoke. While it’s not the best-looking pipe on this list, it certainly feels like it should be because of the price.

Missouri Meerschaum Legend Tobacco Pipe – Best tobacco pipe for beginners

The Legend from Missouri Meerschaum is one of the most popular tobacco pipes on the market today. It offers a terrific balance of appearance, functionality, and cost. The classic corn cob pipe is made with corn cob grown in the USA and is fashioned after the tobacco pipes of yesteryear smoked by Mark Twain, General MacArthur, and several other notable figures in American history.

If you’re searching for a classic corn cob pipe that smokes just as well as briar pipes but costs much less, the Legend may be for you.

Missouri Meerschaum Country Gentleman Tobacco Pipe – Best Tobacco Pipe for Long Smoking Sessions

The Missouri Meerschaum Country Gentleman Tobacco Pipe is also made in the USA and features an extra-large, barrel-shaped bowl for endless smoking enjoyment. While it’s also made from corn cob and features a 6mm filter just like the Legend, this is where the similarities end. The Country Gentleman is made for exactly that, gentlemen. Its coating has an appealing dark stain, giving it a distinctively masculine appearance. It also has a hardwood insert at the bottom of the bowl, making it look like smoke as well as really expensive tobacco pipes.

Mr. Brog Full Bent Smoking Tobacco Pipe – Best Full Bent Tobacco Pipe

Mr. Brog is known for making top-quality handmade tobacco pipes, and the brand’s Full Bent Smoking Tobacco Pipe is no exception. The handsome full bent pipe is made of quality pear wood that’s been dried and hardened for two full seasons, making it as dense and durable as briar pipes costing twice as much. Each handmade pipe features a classic full bent shape and is finished in carnauba wax and a natural coating. Its gorgeous shape, however, is the real selling point. Aside from looking great, its shape provides an amazingly cool smoke.

Scott Lobular Ebony Tobacco Pipe – Best Tobacco Pipe Set

Looking for an inexpensive tobacco pipe set complete with pipe, stand, cleaning materials, and storage bag? If so, the Scottie Lobular Ebony Tobacco Pipe may be for you. As far as the pipe is concerned, not only does it have a beautiful ebony finish, but it’s also heat resistant and features a premium German filter, leading to a nice draw and smooth smoke.

Small Shiny Tobacco Pipe – Best Portable Tobacco Pipe

Many tobacco pipes are small enough to put in your pocket and take with you to enjoy a pleasurable smoke while out and about and on the go. However, the fragile nature of corn cob pipes and the awkward shape of full bent pipes make them difficult to transport and ideal for at-home use. This isn’t the case with the Small Shiny Tobacco Pipe. In addition to featuring a simple streamlined shape, it’s only three inches in length from bowl to tip, making it one of the most portable tobacco pipes on the market today. Despite its portable size, however, it features a deep metal bowl. This allows you to pack plenty of tobacco and enjoy a nice long smoke. It also has small holes on the bottom of the bowl, so there’s no need for a screen, and the blacktip can be pulled off for cleaning.

Best Tobacco Pipes – Buyer’s Guide

There are hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of tobacco pipes on the market to choose from. To avoid wasting your money on a poorly made pipe or purchasing one that’s not right for you, it helps to know a little about them and understand what to look for. By doing a little research first, you’ll be able to enjoy the best possible smoking experience.

What to Look for In a Tobacco Pipe

If you want to channel your inner James Bond, Humphrey Bogart, or Carey Grant, no ordinary tobacco pipe will do. Here are some things to look for to choosing a great tobacco pipe for years of smoking enjoyment: • Fit and Finish A tobacco pipe should look like it was skillfully made with care. It shouldn’t have uneven stains, sandpaper marks, or any spots that haven’t been waxed. The shank and stem should fit well as well, allowing for a good draw and smooth smoke. • Aesthetic Style To get the most enjoyment from a tobacco pipe, you must like the way it looks and feels. A pipe may smoke great, but if it doesn’t please you aesthetically or feel good in your hand, you won’t want to use it nearly as much. Whether or not you like the style of a pipe, however, is completely subjective and up to you. Some people like corn cob pipes. Others like full bent briars, Dublin, or Billiard-shaped pipes. The good news is there are a variety of pipe styles out there to choose from and try. • Draw A good tobacco pipe must have a good draw. This means it should have good airflow when puffed. Unfortunately, due to poorly aligned parts and draft holes that are too small, not all tobacco pipes provide a good draw. In addition to creating a poor draw, these issues can also cause a pipe to smoke wet or too loudly, which ruins the smoking experience. • Weight In general, lighter tobacco pipes smoke better than heavier pipes. They’re also easier to hold and less fatiguing to smoke. Nonetheless, some people prefer heavier pipes, so like aesthetics and style, the preferred weight of a pipe largely comes down to personal taste. • Varnish From large manufacturers to small artisan craftsmen, tobacco pipe makers of all varieties use an array of finishing varnishes. Although many varnishes have absolutely no effect on the performance of a pipe, some varnished finishes tend to bubble or flake. That being said, there are exceptions to every rule as some impeccably made and highly sought-after pipes are finished with heavy varnishes. • Filters Filters help keep out debris and allow for a smooth and enjoyable smoke. However, metal filters inserted in the stems of pipes also tend to create condensation, leading to us and noisy smoking experiences.

What Materials are Tobacco Pipes Made With?

Tobacco pipes can cost as little as $5 and as much as $500. Traditional tobacco pipes are almost always made of briarwood do the material’s heat resistance, appearance, and durability. However, pearwood and other hardwoods with similar qualities to briarwood are also used. Thanks to its ability to be carved into intricate designs, meerschaum is another popular material used in tobacco pipe construction. However, the clay-like material isn’t as durable as briarwood and requires a little more care. Meerschaum pipes are also more expensive. Lastly, there is the corn cob variety. They’re the cheapest option and smoke quite well. However, corn cob tobacco pipes don’t last as long and are usually only good for a year or two. Nonetheless, given their affordability, they are a popular option and a good choice for first-timers.

What are the Different Tobacco Pipe Shapes?

Tobacco pipes tend to fall into two primary categories based on the shape of the stem. They are either straight or curved. From this jumping-off point, they can take any number of creative and exquisite shapes. In terms of smoking characteristics, straight tobacco pipes generally provide a better smoking experience. This is because straight pipes tend to collect less moisture at the base of the bowl beneath the draft hole. With straight pipes, such as corn cob pipes, the bowl also sits higher, which does a better job of keeping smoke from emanating off of the bowl and into your face. Tobacco pipes with curved stems, on the other hand, are more comfortable to smoke, especially for long periods. These pipes are the ones associated with “Sherlock Holmes” and other notable figures throughout European history.

How to Pack a Tobacco Pipe

Packing a tobacco pipe correctly is crucial for enjoying a good, quality smoke. Unfortunately, this is often done incorrectly by newbie and experienced pipe smokers alike. The good news is once you get it down, it will become a breeze. You may struggle at first, but with a little practice and the right technique, you’ll get the hang of it and enjoy pleasurable, hassle-free smoking experiences time and time again. There are two packing methods you can utilize: Read more in our article “How to light and pack a tobacco pipe?” 1. The Pinch Method First, grab a nice large pinch of your favorite tobacco. You should pinch enough that it looks like it won’t fit in the bowl. Then, place it in the bowl and use your free thumb to hold it in place. Next, use both of your thumbs to gently press the pipe tobacco into the bowl. It should be packed tight enough to hold the pipe upside down without the tobacco falling out. Lastly, test the draw. You may need to use the end of a safety pin, a small nail, or a similar item to poke a hole through the center to let a little air in. After that, all that’s left to do is light it and enjoy it. 2. The Triple-Layer Method For this method, you first need to gravity fill the tobacco into the bowl by grabbing a pinch and dropping it into the bowl without pressing or tamping it down. You can also scoop the bowl right into the jar or pouch of tobacco. Either way, fill it to the top and press it down until the bowl is filled halfway. This will be the first layer. Do the same thing once more, but this time the pressed tobacco should fill the bowl 2/3 of the way. This, of course, is the second layer. Finally, do it again for the third layer. When finished, place some loose tobacco on top and press it down until the bowl is filled just below the rim. The pressure should feel like it is increasing with each layer. While the first layer won’t require much pressure, you’ll need to press down on the tobacco for the third layer. Lastly, test the draw. It should feel similar to sucking juice, tea, soda, or anything else through a straw. If it feels like you’re sucking through an empty straw, the bowl is packed too loose, so you’ll need to press it down and add more tobacco. On the other hand, if it feels like you’re sucking a milkshake or smoothie through a straw, it’s packed too tight. In this scenario, you’ll need to poke a hole through the middle of the bowl for increased airflow just like the first packing method. While this method requires a few extra steps, most people prefer it to the simpler method as it helps ensure a proper draw and provides a longer smoking session.

The Art of Smoking with a Tobacco Pipe

Unlike cigar and cigarette smoking, pipe smoking is a more relaxing and meditative pursuit. While some cigar smokers might dispute this claim, it’s far more common to see cigar smokers huddled around in animated discussions than pipe smokers. Tobacco pipe smoking is much more introspective. Therefore, pipe-smoking often involves a comfortable chair and an unhurried or more relaxed state of mind. As such, the pacing is important and downright essential to enjoy the nuanced flavors of tobacco and appreciate the art of the blender. A slow puffing pace also helps regulate the burning of tobacco. In other words, to be a successful pipe smoker, patience and perseverance are a must. By being patient and relaxed, you can truly enjoy the experience and discover the endless tobacco blends available to you.

How to Light the Pipe

You can’t just put a flame in a packed bowl and expect the best results. Like everything else, lighting a tobacco pipe properly involves a process. Read more in our article “How to light and pack a tobacco pipe?” When the bowl is packed, you first need to char the top of the tobacco. You do this by holding the flame from your lighter above the bowl and moving it in a circle while taking a dozen or so short puffs. This will put a nice char on the top of the tobacco. Afterward, tamp the tobacco down in the bowl one more time. This will create a nice crusting effect on the top of the packed tobacco. After the tobacco is charred on top, hold the flame above the bowl once more. However, this time takes a handful of deep draws to suck the flame down into the tobacco-filled bowl. When the tobacco is lit, continue taking deep puffs to create a solid ember that will stay lit a long time. If you’re new to smoking out of a tobacco pipe, you may need to re-light the bowl several times before it is finished. As your packing and lighting skills improve, the fewer times you’ll have to re-light the bowl. As the saying goes, “Practice makes perfect.” Experienced tobacco pipe smokers can make a single bowl last upwards of an hour while only having to re-light it once.

Tobacco Pipe Troubleshooting

If your tobacco pipe ever becomes too hot to comfortably hold, the tobacco inside is getting too hot. In this scenario, let the ember die out and try re-lighting the tobacco. Only this time, take fewer puffs. Most pipe smokers take a puff every 20 seconds or so. You shouldn’t puff constantly like you would a cigarette. Also, if you ever feel a burning sensation in your mouth, which is called a “tongue bite,” the tobacco is once again getting too hot. So, let the ember die out and re-light the bowl.

Conclusion

As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when choosing a great tobacco pipe. However, picking out a proven tobacco pipe is only half the battle as you have to learn how to smoke it as well. Pipe smoking is an incredibly enjoyable pastime when you get the basics down. Hopefully, this buyer’s guide has also helped in that regard. Now that you know all about tobacco pipes and how to use them just like the gentlemanly scholars of old, it’s time to pick one out, sit back in your favorite chair, and enjoy hours of smoking pleasure!

FAQ Best Tobacco Pipes

What makes a Peterson pipe a choice selection for individuals who smoke a pipe, and how has the brand maintained its reputation since its inception?

Peterson has been a renowned name in the world of high-quality tobacco pipes since 1865. Known for their craftsmanship, unique system pipes, and dedication to tradition, Peterson pipes are prized for their use of premium materials, primarily briar wood, which provides a cool, dry smoke. The brand’s commitment to quality and innovation in pipe-making techniques has solidified its status among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

For someone looking to invest in their first pipe in 2022, what advice would you give to ensure they choose the right pipe that suits their smoking style and preferences?

When choosing your first pipe, consider the size, shape, material, and weight that will best suit your smoking style and physical comfort. Beginners might opt for a pipe that’s not too large, made from briar wood for durability and heat resistance. Researching reputable pipe brands or visiting a specialized shop can also provide valuable insights. Remember, the right pipe should feel comfortable in your hand and mouth, and be enjoyable to smoke.

How important is it to use a pipe cleaner regularly, and what are the potential consequences of not maintaining a clean pipe bowl and stem?

Using a pipe cleaner after every pipe smoking session is crucial. Residue and moisture can accumulate in the pipe bowl and stem, potentially affecting the taste of your quality tobacco and the smoothness of your smoking experience. Neglecting this can lead to a buildup of “cake” that, if uncontrolled, can eventually crack the bowl. Regular cleaning ensures a fresh flavor with each smoke and prolongs the life of your pipe.

With so many types of tobacco available in 2022, how does a beginning pipe smoker choose the best quality tobacco that will ensure a smooth smoking experience?

For a smooth smoking experience, beginning pipe smokers should start with a milder tobacco blend, avoiding strong or heavily flavored tobaccos that can be overwhelming. Visit local tobacconists or engage with online pipe-smoking communities to get recommendations. Sampling different types of tobacco can also help you discover what suits your palate best.

What are estate pipes, and why might they be an attractive option for both new and seasoned pipe enthusiasts?

Estate pipes are pre-owned pipes that have been cleaned and, if necessary, refurbished. They’re often more affordable than new pipes, offering newcomers a less expensive entry point into quality pipe smoking. For collectors, estate pipes offer historical and unique pieces to add to their collections.

Why are briar wood pipes often recommended for those who enjoy smoking a quality tobacco pipe, and what benefits do they offer over other materials like clay pipes or corn cob pipes?

Briar wood pipes are popular because briar, a wood from the heath tree, is naturally resistant to fire and has a porous nature, providing a dry, cool smoke. It’s more durable than clay pipes, which can break easily, and while corn cob pipes are affordable, they don’t offer the same longevity or smoking quality as briar.

When considering the best tobacco pipe brands on the market, what distinguishing features should consumers look for that signify a quality smoking pipe?

Look for a well-crafted, smooth-fitting stem, uniformity in the pipe bowl’s drilling, and high-grade materials, such as briar wood or meerschaum. Brands known for meticulous craftsmanship and consistency, often with a long history in the industry, are also indicators of quality.

How can a pipe enthusiast discern between the different types of tobacco pipes available, such as churchwarden, Italian, or Sherlock, and determine which is best suited to their smoking preferences?

Understanding the different styles is key: Churchwarden pipes offer a cooler smoke due to the long stem, Italian pipes are renowned for their craftsmanship and quality materials, and Sherlock pipes are iconic and provide a unique smoking experience. Choose based on the smoking experience you prefer, the aesthetics you enjoy, and the comfort level of the pipe’s use.

For someone in the market for a new pipe in 2022, how do wooden tobacco pipes, specifically those made from briar, enhance the smoking experience compared to other materials?

Briar wood’s natural porosity and heat resistance make it ideal for absorbing moisture and withstanding the heat of burning tobacco, resulting in a cooler, drier, and more flavorful smoke compared to pipes made from other materials.

Why is it important for someone who’s new to smoking pipes to understand the different smoking accessories available, such as pipe tampers, wind caps, and pipe lighters?

Understanding and using the right smoking accessories enhances the overall experience. Pipe tampers help pack tobacco for an even burn, wind caps prevent tobacco from spilling, and pipe lighters are designed to light the bowl evenly without scorching the rim. Each accessory plays a role in achieving a satisfying smoke.

How can enthusiasts find tobacco pipes for sale that align with their preferences for a wooden pipe, and what should they consider when making a selection?

Enthusiasts can find tobacco pipes for sale at specialty smoke shops, online retailers, and even at some local tobacconists. When selecting a wooden pipe, it’s important to consider the wood quality (briar wood is highly recommended), the pipe’s shape and size, the craftsmanship, and the manufacturer’s reputation for producing quality pipes.

What makes a pipe a favorite pipe among smokers, and how does the choice of tobacco contribute to this preference?

A favorite pipe is one that not only has a comfortable mouthpiece and fits well in the hand but also provides a cool, satisfying smoke. The choice of tobacco significantly contributes to this, as premium tobacco tends to burn slower and cooler, offering a more enjoyable and flavorful experience.

What are the characteristics that define a great pipe, especially for those who prefer smoking churchwarden tobacco pipes?

A great pipe has a well-constructed bowl and a comfortable stem, offers a smooth draw, and is made of quality materials, such as briar wood, to withstand repeated use. For those who prefer churchwarden tobacco pipes, a longer stem for cooler smoke and an aesthetically pleasing design are additional defining characteristics.

For someone looking to discover the best tobacco for their smoking experience, what resources or methods would you recommend they use?

To discover the best tobacco, one should sample different blends from reputable tobacconists, read reviews and recommendations in pipe smoking communities and forums, and consider attending tobacco tasting events. Personal taste plays a big part, so trying a variety of premium tobacco types is key.

What factors have contributed to the popularity of the best selling pipe models, and why do pipe smokers own many pipes?

The best-selling pipe models are usually those that combine quality craftsmanship, durable materials like briar wood, and a design that provides a superior smoking experience. Pipe smokers often own many pipes to rotate between uses, allowing each pipe to rest and dry out, which helps maintain the pipe’s condition and the quality of the smoke.

How have new tobacco blends and affordable tobacco options impacted the market for pipe smokers, and what should consumers be aware of when trying new products?

New tobacco blends have expanded the options available to pipe smokers, catering to a range of taste preferences and budgets. Affordable tobacco options have made pipe smoking more accessible. However, consumers should be cautious about extremely cheap options, as the quality of tobacco can vastly affect the smoking experience. It’s best to stick with reputable brands and retailers.

What distinguishes pipes made by manufacturers who have been crafting pipes since 1825, and why is a pipe made of briar wood often considered perfect for those who enjoy a churchwarden smoking pipe?

Manufacturers with a long history, like those crafting pipes since 1825, often have a storied tradition of craftsmanship, using time-honored techniques, and a deep understanding of what makes a quality pipe. A pipe made of briar wood is considered perfect for churchwarden smoking pipes due to its heat resistance, durability, and ability to provide a cool, dry smoke, enhancing the overall experience.

What makes enthusiasts say a pipe is a great choice for beginners interested in exploring tobacco products, and what features should they look for?

When enthusiasts refer to a pipe as a great choice for newcomers, they often highlight its ease of use, comfort in handling, and the quality of the smoking experience it provides. Beginners should look for a pipe with a smooth, well-constructed bowl, a comfortable pipe stem that’s easy to hold, and a size and shape that suits their preferences. Additionally, choosing a pipe from reputable pipe manufacturers ensures better craftsmanship and overall quality.

How important is the maintenance of the pipe stem in the longevity of tobacco products, and what are the recommended care practices?

The maintenance of the pipe stem is crucial to the longevity and overall quality of smoking experiences with tobacco products. Regular cleaning after use, avoiding biting down on the stem, and using proper tools such as pipe cleaners can significantly extend the life of the pipe. Additionally, it’s advisable to periodically rest the pipe, ensuring it’s thoroughly dry before the next use.

In the opinion of seasoned smokers, why do many believe a briar pipe is perfect for those who frequently enjoy their tobacco products, and how do they compare to other materials?

Seasoned smokers often regard a briar pipe as perfect due to its natural resistance to heat, its ability to absorb moisture, and the unique flavors it can impart to the tobacco. Compared to pipes made from other materials, briar pipes are durable and tend to provide a cooler, drier smoke, which is often more enjoyable for regular users of tobacco products.

How do pipe manufacturers influence the market with their unique designs and materials, and what role does innovation play in the industry?

Pipe manufacturers significantly influence the market through their craftsmanship, choice of materials, and innovative designs. By introducing new shapes, utilizing advanced materials, or reinventing classic styles with a modern twist, manufacturers can cater to a wide range of smokers with varying preferences. Innovation plays a critical role in keeping the industry fresh and dynamic, attracting new smokers, and retaining the interest of seasoned aficionados.