Loading ...The question of whether to use a filtered pipe or not is more complex than it appears on the surface. One general recommendation would be that if you are going to inhale (not the best idea), use a filtered pipe to reduce the amount of tars and nicotine.
Next, let’s look at the different types of filters. There are two main categories of filters- pass-through and pass-around. The pass-through filters are the ones most people are familiar with, like the Dr. Grabow or Medico. Those filters use a paper or paper/charcoal element to remove particulate matter from the smoke. Other types of pass-through filters include charcoal or silica gel versions (usually 9mm for European pipes). The serve the same function as the paper kind, but use different materials to do the same job. Most people who don’t inhale don’t like this type of filter as it reduces the flavor of the smoke. Some people will buy this type of filtered pipe but will remove the filter. Due to the physics of air movement, this is not the best idea as a filtered pipe without a filter will tend to smoke wet.
The pass-around filters are usually made of wood (balsa or maple), and their whole purpose is to remove excessive moisture from the smoke. Savinelli pipes use either a triangular 6 mm filter (U.S. market) or a rounded 9 mm filter (Europe and elsewhere) made of balsa to do the job. Brigham pipes use a maple filter to serve the same function. These filters are generally unobtrusive, and most people find that they don’t affect the flavor of the smoke. Savinelli, in most models, give you an option, however. They include a 6 mm rod of material with a smaller hole down the center. This is inserted in the place of the filter, and basically turn it into a non-filtered pipe.
Resources
- New Pipes Pipes, pipes and more pipes. Here we have one of the premier selections of briar pipes in the world. From Peterson pipes to Savinelli pipes and everything in between, the briar pipes you want at prices you can afford!
- Estate/Used pipes Estate pipes or Used pipes have been offered by tobacconists for years. This is a great way to buy a high grade and or beef up a collection with out maximum outlay.
- Pipe Gift Sets Packs Need a gift for the pipe smoker in your life? This page will direct you to an assortmant of gift packs. Some featuring a pipe with tobaccos and some just featuring tobaccos. Either way there is something for every pipe smoker!
- Filters and Inserts Pipe filters have long been a standard for a drier smoke as well as having the benefit of removing some unwanted ingredients found in pipe tobacco. Nicotine and irritants are trapped in the absorbent filters.
- Pipe Tools This section is devoted to pipe hardware or pipe tools. Keeping your pipe clean is part of the ritual. These tools enhance your experience and allows you the honor of taking care of a prized possesion. You’ll see it all here from the very expensive to the really inexpensive.
- Tobacco & Pipe Pouches From the inexpensive to the outrageous (not really it just sounded good)! However, we have some terrific deals on pipe tobacco pouches. Whether for everyday or weekend use, you can find something for the pipesmoker you love! NEW LaRocca Nappa leather tobacco pouches just in!
- Pipe Cleaners Standard, bristled, churchwarden, fluffy and tapered pipe cleaners from – BJ Long’s, Comoy’s, Dill’s and Ream & Klean. A pipe cleaner for every need!
- Polishes & Wipes Sweetener, Buffing Cloths, Polishes and Wipes for both pipe and stem. All the goodies you need to keep your puffer looking good and in perfect working order.
- Pipe Lighters When it comes to putting the heat to the briar there is no substitution for a great pipe lighter. Convenient and always at the ready. We have tried to include lighters in all ranges for the brothers of the pipe.
- Stands & Racks Looking for a great way to display your pipes? Here you can select from an assortment of makes, styles, and colors that are sure to please the eye and grab attention to those you hold dear.
- Pipe Literature Love the hobby? Want to learn more? The best place to start is Pipes and Tobaccos Magazine. Richard Carleton Hacker has written several books on Scotch, Cigars and Pipes and his pipe books are required reading by any hobbyist.
