Pipe shows often have tobacco samples in their goody bags, though you have to pay the price
of admission. Also, at some of the tobacco related web sites, you can come across offers for
samples, or at least for coupons for a buck or two on over-the-counter brands. Also at pipe
shows, some of the exhibitors will allow you to take a pinch of tobacco to try. This usually means
a modest bowl-full, though if you are greedy, you might be able to pack a big bowled pipe. My
local pipe shop owner lets regular customers sample a bowl full of tobacco of a blend of their
choice. I think he does this on a selective basis, assuming the person has bought something.
Incidentally, at the pipe shows you usually have to go outside to a patio or covered porch to
smoke, for fire and non-smoking regulations, but you still get the free bowl of tobacco; you
just can't smoke it inside. I recently answered an online survey from a tobacco company to get
a (lowly) $1 coupon on a pouch of their brands.