Chicago Pipe Show - Alden Pipe

[sallow]

Went to the pipe show (I'm about an hour away in northern IL). First things first, here it is.

I'm smoking this for the second time today and I couldn't be happier with this Alden pipe. This cute little billiard is super light and is smoking sweet right out of the bag. It has a nice open draw and is constructed well. It also came with a longer, churchwarden style stem which I have yet to use. The finish on the pipe is also very nice, I'll try to take some better pictures in the future.
During the sale on Saturday I had a quick chat with Ryan Alden(Lonestar)and he seemed like a really nice guy. Ryan, thanks for the pipe and I'll post a picture from time to time.
I also got two tins of McCranie's Red flake and some Smoker's Haven tobacco.
As for the rest of the show, it was ok.

 

[captainsousie]

I've been eying that pipe on his site for a while. Glad you got it and that it smokes well. A guy could build a rotation from just his pipes and be happy.
And yes, he is a really nice guy.

 

[mrenglish]

Nice score!
I like how he made two stems for your pipe. Its always nice to have the option even if you do not use the churchwarden stem.

 

[papipeguy]

Very nice pipe. Hope you enjoy it.

 

[moonman]

Very nice pipe...enjoy it, I would love to go to a show like that

 

[docwatson]

Comgrats on a very nice pipe. And you say the Chicago show was just OK???? Sounds like you were disapointed??

As for the Germain Cognac Mixture, it's a great aromatic with very satisfying flavor. Enjoy.

 

[bentmike]

Nice! Congrats Alden pipes are great.

 

[lonestar]

That is so great to hear! I made this pipe just hoping it would be perfect for someone and it looks like it found its way home.

I really had a great time at the show and loved chatting with you Saturday. Too bad the whole forum can't meet at a show !

Here's to many years of sweet smokes my friend!

 

[simnettpratt]

I also met him when the Dallas/Ft. Worth pipers met and I agree he's a quality dude. I can also tell you the pictures don't do his pipes justice.

 

[lonestar]

One thing that really doesn't come through in pics is just how small this pipe really is. Not quite 5" if I recall correctly!

 

[sallow]

It makes a nice pair with my Stanwell featherweight, one of my favorite pipes (shown in the back). They both come in just under 5".
It's got a nice spot in the rotation.

 

[pitchfork]

Just under 5" is a great size for a billiard. Happy smoke.

 

[numbersix]

Congrats on that Alden! The two stems feature is really nice and I like the blast on the pipe too.

 

[pipedreamer]

His pipes are well made.