I'm in the slow process of cleaning up my newly acquired 1955 Dunhill. I have some beeswax polish which is not very good on the briar. Which was should I be using? I can't seem to find anything in Canada for the purpose.
I like the results I get with a block of carnauba wax I got on eBay. It's hard, and needs to be applied with a cloth wheel (available for rotary hand tools), but it's durable and it buffs-up brilliantly if the underlying wood has a very smooth finish.
I picked up some Howards Butcher Block Conditioner (food grade mineral oil and natural waxes) awhile back and it seems to do the trick for a quick wipe down / polish. I use sparingly, and try not to overuse to ensure no splotchy wax buildup. I make sure to wipe with a micro cloth to buff between when the bowl is warm. Used on rusticated and smooth bowls without issue
I haven’t had any issues, no adverse effects, or wax buildup. Kind of surprised it’s not used by the community for general quick cleaning / shine; makes me a little worried I’m missing some reason why I shouldn’t be using it tbh ..
PS - I assume it’s available in Canada, can pick up for ~$8 usd on Amazon
I'vs heard good things about the carnauba wax as well. Is there an easier form of it though? Something more paste like? I've looked for Paragon all over the place.
Carnuba comes in hard bar form, the hardness is what gives it the ability to stay shiny. Avoid using it on textured pipes as it builds up in crevices. Think I picked mine up from Lee Valley. A buffing wheel (cloth) at lower speed on a Dremmel or bench buffer works well.
Paragon or Halcyon II you'll probably need to mail order, but easy to use!
Thanks for the replies guys. Bassbug, yes its primarily for aesthetics, I'm cleaning the bowl but it still looks a little too dull for my liking.
I've looked at Lee Valley and they do carry the bar, but hopefully I can find a paste.
Dave what did you use?
Mike, here is another option.
http://www.walkerbriarworks.com/html/stem_restore_kit.html
The carnauba wax is in a soft paste formula. It may be applied with your finger or soft cloth.
Regards
Good old reliable "nose grease." Readily available in all countries where in the people have noses. Granted, not what the OP inquired about for restoration purposes but, it does provide a nice, quick shine to a healthy, well maintained pipe.
Use "floppy" (unstitched) wheels when buffing blasted bowls, they'll get into all the nooks and crannies.