Do You Need/Want a Pipe Retort to Clean Your Pipe?

[kf4bsb]

Hello all,
I was involved in a discussion earlier today with a couple of people on here about making and using retorts. I have agreed to put together some retorts for some people at cost plus shipping. These retorts will be made of a 25ml borosilicate volumetric flask, tubing, and a test tube holder so you can comfortably hold the retort while heating. Lucky for me, I use to be a high school science teacher and still have connections in the lab wares industry. I look for the price, with shipping, to be more than $20. If you are interested, just let me know. Next Monday we will see how many names we have and I will go pick up the glassware and put them together. The more people we have, the lower the price per unit.
Thanks,

Wes

 

[simnettpratt]

That's really cool, Wes; thanks for the post. I already have mine, handmade for me from crk69 in my Secret Santa along with other toys and a TON of tobacco
Don't make the rookie mistake I made, and try to use 50% isopropyl alcohol; it never boils! At least it will feel like never. If you're using isopropyl alky and not drinking spirits, use 90% plus...

 

[kf4bsb]

You are correct, the higher the "proof" the better. Just be careful, the higher the proof, the more flamable it is.

 

[simnettpratt]

I boiled it with a little flat round candle on a big cookie sheet on the kitchen counter. I don't own gloves, but I had on glasses and a big bottle of water nearby. I figured the cookie sheet would handily contain the small amount of alcohol I was using if it did catch fire. Retorts work really well; thanks again for offering to make us some

 

[allan]

Great

 

[kf4bsb]

Glad it worked out for you simnettpratt. I love using them. I am glad to help out anyone who wants one. Just to be clear to everyone, I am not going to make any kind of profit on these. Whatever they cost me is what they will cost you, plus shipping of course. I am glad to do it for the community.

 

[mirain]

I'd be interested in a 'rig'.

 

[cajunguy]

I would be interested as well. Just let us know. I currently have a retort, but I'm nervous about the design and I dress myself in what looks like a HAZMAT suit when I use it. LOL

 

[kf4bsb]

Cajunguy and Mirain, I have added you to the list. As soon as I know how many people want them I will be able to give you a final price as volume affects final price of the parts. Hope that made sense.
BTW Cajunguy, I love the quote next to your coat of arms. I don't care what you say, Stumpy Joe was still the best drummer that band ever had.
Wes

 

[mirain]

Thanks, Wes. Gimme the details when available.

 

[romeowood]

I think this will give you a general idea of what kf4bsb is preparing for your estate restoration enjoyment:

 

[monjiro]

kf4bsb, Thanks for the nice gesture. Please count me in.
Yes, this is my first post. But I am a looong time lurker.

Please forgive me to saying hi to everyone this late.

When I notice and look back I have climbed such a steep learning curve.

With a pushing hand on my buttocks from you guys.

Just recently, with a help from Cajunguy, I could score a micro mesh kits and they're on its way.

Thank you Cajunguy for putting a nice link.

The reason I was lurking so long is simply this.

I am Japanese and when it comes to English. Sometimes I feel like my brain is slipping out.
I appreciate everyone on this forum without slipping.

 

[shaintiques]

To answer the question, you really don't need a retort. I actually only use mine when I have a stem that is totally blocked. And most pipes really don't need a salt alcohol treatment either, just a good reaming.

 

[tombraider]

I would also like a kit. Just let me know how to go about submitting payment and shipping info.

 

[mirain]

Thanks, Wes. Just ordered my kit on Briar Bid. Looking forward to receiving it.

 

[wayneteipen]

I have one but I like your design better. I'd be interested.
@shaintiques, good point, however, the airway on some bent pipes can't be reamed. I also think a retort, if used properly, can be more gentle on the pipe. To each his own.

 

[allan]

Monjiro
I wish my Japanese was as good as your English!
LOL

 

[cynyr]

Welcome, monjiro. Enjoy!

 

[monjiro]

Thank you allan and cynyr!!

You can talk to me in Japanese anytime allan. LOL

 

[rjscha]

I'm interested in a retort. Let me know when and where to make payment.