Opinions on this inexpensive cob for a newbie testing the waters

[dj1340]

If you pull the stem out there's usually a paper type filter or some have another type filter. Check the pie before buying. I would imagine
you could get something relatively cheap. Lot of cigar shops also sell pipes, drug stores etc. Check the hole drilled in the stem to see if
it's centered. Hard to push a pipe cleaner through if it's off.

[jrfoxx]

If you pull the stem out there's usually a paper type filter or some have another type filter. Check the pie before buying. I would imagine
you could get something relatively cheap. Lot of cigar shops also sell pipes, drug stores etc. Check the hole drilled in the stem to see if
it's centered. Hard to push a pipe cleaner through if it's off.

Yeah, avid cigar and pipe smoking friend who's gentle prodding occasionally over the last year or so, that was part of what has gotten me the itch to try out pipes, plus all the other avid cigar smokers here and on CW who also smoke pipes, plus the inexpensive costs associated with pipes compared to Cigars, and to have a little something different from Cigars on occasion, told me where to find the filter and that it should be easy to remove if I decide it's any kind of hindrance.

Like most other pipe smokers whose posts I've been reading on a dedicated pipe forum, and the pipe section here, all seem to prefer pipes without filters, although no one has expressed a specific reason yet.

Do they hinder draw?

Or collect tar and fine ash over time and effect, if not outright block, airflow?

Also, since you mentioned pipe cleaners, (which I need to get, as I forgot about them) I would think the filter would keep you from being able to clean all the way into the bowl, leaving a bit just again, collecting fine ash and tar that can't be cleaned.

Seems that removing the filter would be all upside with no downside, and the brass mesh screens are dirt cheap to keep tobacco bits and the bulk of the ash out of the stem.

Unfortunately, there is nowhere here that sells pipes or pipe supplies. Even our little cigar shop has to sell a large variety of other items from art to antique guns, to stay afloat, plus each cigar averages about $4ea over the cost online, even counting shipping. So, unable to check any pipes in person, so taking my chances, but the Missouri Meerschaum Company has gotten the nod from a few people familiar with them, as a reputable seller of quality cob pipes and they can be bought from with confidence, even on the cheaper ones.

Anything besides Pipe cleaners I should get?

My butane lighter I bought for cigarettes has the adjustable flame come out the side away from the button on the top, opposite side, so no finger burning, and it also has a fold out tamper, poker, and a fine toothed saw type deal I have no idea what it's used for, but got it if I need it, lol.

Had it about a year, and it's been a solid lighter, lighting every time, and was like $20 or so on Amazon. Wish I could remember the name in case someone else is interested. I imagine having the tools right in the lighter would be a desirable feature for many. I'll see if I can find it..,



I friggin love cigars