As this is my first pipe review on Blogcritics, I figure that I should give you an introduction regarding what to expect. When reviewing new pipes, I will evaluate various qualities and factors that go into each pipe. I will talk about the look, the feel in your hand, and the way the pipe gleams. I will discuss the overall taste, how well the pipe smokes, and how easy it is to break in. Basically, I will tell you exactly what I think of the pipe, every step of the way.
However, when I am reviewing a refurbished estate pipe, I really cannot talk about these things. After all, it is not the refurbisher's fault if the pipe was bad to begin with, but the maker's. Instead, I will talk about the quality of the polish, how clean it looks, and if there is any cosmetic damage. I will also talk about the bowl of the pipe, and if it was reamed and cleaned properly. Lastly, price is a huge factor in estate pipes, so that will be discussed.
A few weeks ago, when I published an article about picking out your first pipe, I mentioned that it is sometimes better to buy an estate pipe than a new one. Shortly after that, I put my own advice to the test, and decided to buy an old estate pipe. Bob from Perry White Pipes, who was refurbishing and cleaning a bunch of old pipes, had an Indian Chief pipe up for sale. Stamped as “Algerian Briar - Hand Carved - France,” and featuring a carved Indian head on the front of the bowl, the pipe was just too good to pass up. I loved the look, and the price, so I bought it.
After getting my pipe, I immediately noticed that the outside was in great condition. While there were a few nicks and scratches, the overall finish was still good, the carving still pretty, and the wood still shining. Save for the few cosmetic mistakes, the pipe looked very well cleaned and polished. Bob obviously put in a lot of work on this refurbish.
Article comments
1 - Brian
I am heading to the Columbus Pipe show in a few weeks and was wondering if this bob guy is there and will be selling more pipes
2 - Barga
I know for a fact that Bob will be at the show, and I am willing to bet that I will be as well. Even if he doesn't have any pipes for sale there (he will), you should check out his website, where he has some for sale.
3 - hungu2
Hi,
was looking at your wooden chief head pipe, i have one like that only mine has the feathers up higher than leaning back as yours, i got mine from a old shop in 1967. trying to get an idea of what it would be worth now?
thanks
4 - Rob
Thats a very cool pipe! I recently got one off of eBay, that is similar. I think it's really cool, it's obviously aged briar, but not used much. The draft hole is off center, but still it's a cool pipe just to look at.