Just got a little Bari Pearl bamboo pipe. Have been looking for some kind of bamboo enhanced pipe since Banjo has been regaling us with his wonderful collection of same. Got this very inexpensive since it had a partially broken tenon and a hole through the bamboo--now repaired. Haven't seen much discussion about using bamboo and if it affects the smoking qualities of a pipe. I have seen some comments about it absorbing tars and other stuff from the smoke stream. Don't know whether 1 knuckle or 5-6 knuckles make any difference. I haven't had one to smoke so the experts can weigh in for help. It does seem that it adds to the work and expense of adorning the pipe. Sure does make for some interesting and beautiful specimens !! Hoppes