A Question for the Tamper Makers Out There

[matchstickman]

I have long been interested in making my own pipe tamper, but I have absolutely no idea how to begin this process. What do some of you guys use to make tampers with? My father recently cut down a tree in his back yard and has offered to give me some of the tree, I think it might be a cherry tree, but I am not 100% sure. I would guess that this sort of wood is not very fire resistant and I couldn't make a tamp that is just bare wood. I know you can obviously put metal caps on tampers, but what metals do you use, where do you find it, and how do you install it? I am thinking of trying my hand at whittling a tamper by hand to start off with, and then maybe moving on to something a little more fancy. Any help at all would be appreciated.

 

[winton]

There are no rules. Anything that pushes ash down is a success. Once you upgrade from a roofing nail, you are only making it more pleasing to look and touch. Basically any wood would work. You might want to avoid balsa and cork. Every wood burns, but you are not sticking it in a bonfire. You don't need a metal tip, but it will increase the life expectancy of the tamper from 35 years to 50 years, unless you lose it or give it away. Since you have access to cherry, use it. You need to shape it until at least one end fits into the bowl of your pipe. Make the other end comfortable to your hand or more decorative. Finish will make it look better. Sandpaper will make it feel better. Now you know all the rules. Owning a garage full of woodworking or metal working tools will help, but a saw, file and sandpaper can also work. Or the knife you have in your pocket. Afterwards, if your pipe keeps smoking and you enjoy holding the tamper, you have succeeded.
Winton

 

[jcsnaps]

Well put Winton. I have to agree, if you don't crush out your ember or burn your fingers you did it right. If you haven't yet, take a look at both tamper swap threads to see what was made. Mostly have fun.

 

[ace57]

Afterwards, if your pipe keeps smoking and you enjoy holding the tamper, you have succeeded.
Well put.

 

[matchstickman]

You don't need a metal tip, but it will increase the life expectancy of the tamper from 35 years to 50 years

Thanks for the heads up. I didnt realize that non briar (or other non fire resistant type woods) didnt need to have a metal tip. I will keep this in mind when I go to make my tamp. Hopefully I can fashion something and will have pictures up soon. Thanks guys!