Oh, did not know they had silicone ones, should have done a bit more research. I’ll check those out. Thank you!
I got rid of all my BJ Long rubber bits once I discovered the silicone ones
Don't let them touch your palate. The tongue shouldn't be involved when clenching. Problem solved!
I have used rubber bits on some of my ebonite stems and have noticed a slight discoloration - a darkening - where the bit sits if left on the stem for a week or more (or perhaps the stem oxidizes a bit on the part not covered by the bit, though I’m pretty good about using obsidian oil after each smoke). Has anyone had a similar experience? I was wondering if using silicone bits might have a different result, assuming oxidation isn’t the reason. Thanks!
Yep, been there myself. I mean, it was Amsterdam, and how often does one get to fit in with your friends doing something that is pretty normal over there, right?
Didn't stick around long enough to ask her.
Saliva will make its way under the bits and discolour the stem.
That makes me feel better about using them. It doesn’t seem to happen on my acrylic stems, but immediately removing the bit from my ebonite stems after each smoke does appears to help - I just recently started doing that. I always rub in a dab of obsidian oil after a smoke and wipe with a soft cloth after 20 minutes or so - takes 5 seconds and that stuff is absolute magic. Thanks again.
I agree. I find either silicon or rubber buts are more comfortable on acrylic stems. And except for P-lips, my tongue doesn't touch the stem, so I've only noticed bad tasting ebonite rarely, when I went way too long delaying maintenance.
