I am coming to realize that I am gravitating towards very classic shapes. My "collection" consists of three savinellis, two Petes, a Stanwell, a Vauen, a Big Ben, one Catello 55, an old basket pipe and a few briars -- mostly bent shapes.
Having spent some tome trolling this forum and online, I have a real itch for a "classic" billiard or Canadian that is clenchable. Specifically, a Dunhill group 3 or 4 shell briar 3109 or 4109 speaks to me. I was considering a bent Savinelli shape like a 602 but changed my mind.
I see that I can save about 25% by ordering from the Danish Pipe shop or another overseas seller, as opposed to Smoking Pipes. And even if I buy from a US retailer I really don't have access to a B&M with a Dunhill selection.
I've seen some threads about the spotty quality control of Dunhills -- bad drilling, etc. My takeaway that they are generally good to great, but there are some duds.
So to the question -- how much of a risk is it to buy a Dunhill sight unseen? It is after all a fair bit of change and I'd like to approach it thoughtfully and carefully.
Also, I am REALLY interested in a Michael Parks pipe and am willing to pay more for it, and just emailed him, but not sure how long the waiting list is or if he is even still taking new orders.
Having spent some tome trolling this forum and online, I have a real itch for a "classic" billiard or Canadian that is clenchable. Specifically, a Dunhill group 3 or 4 shell briar 3109 or 4109 speaks to me. I was considering a bent Savinelli shape like a 602 but changed my mind.
I see that I can save about 25% by ordering from the Danish Pipe shop or another overseas seller, as opposed to Smoking Pipes. And even if I buy from a US retailer I really don't have access to a B&M with a Dunhill selection.
I've seen some threads about the spotty quality control of Dunhills -- bad drilling, etc. My takeaway that they are generally good to great, but there are some duds.
So to the question -- how much of a risk is it to buy a Dunhill sight unseen? It is after all a fair bit of change and I'd like to approach it thoughtfully and carefully.
Also, I am REALLY interested in a Michael Parks pipe and am willing to pay more for it, and just emailed him, but not sure how long the waiting list is or if he is even still taking new orders.