Howdy from down under 
Reformed / casual cigar smoker, who recently became interested in pipes from a buddy who I ride ADV bikes with.
Kinda jealous of the aroma of his pipe around a campfire, so decided to give it a crack.
Quite taken back by the level of commitment and learning involved, but the relaxation of sipping on a pipe for an hour or so certainly makes it a worthwhile hobby in my humble view.
Currently have a couple of pipes – a Savinelli Rusticated 106 and a MM Country Gentleman.
I bought the MM as a knock about pipe and the 106 as my “good” pipe – but to be honest the MM smokes as good if not better currently than my 106.
I’m guessing over time the briar (and my skill level) will potentially flip that view.
Unfortunately, being in Australia, the level of taxation in general, but especially for tobacco, has really activated my anarco capitalist side @ ~$70/oz.
I guess I’m fortunate to some degree that I’m a casual smoker, enjoying a few bowls on the weekend and one occasionally after work during the week.
Still it p!sses me off that I can’t grab 2oz tins for $10 like my US brothers.
Working on the breathe method and retro-hale currently; trying to get the taste of the baccys I’ve got.
It’s a process, but I’m slowly getting more than a mouthful of peppery smoke (working some C&D Autumn Evening and getting maple notes at the moment). Going SLOW and not puffing like a chimney (as you would with a cigar) has been the challenge, all while trying to keep the bowl lit.
Looking forward to learning more and hearing some good yarns from fellow pipers.
Reformed / casual cigar smoker, who recently became interested in pipes from a buddy who I ride ADV bikes with.
Kinda jealous of the aroma of his pipe around a campfire, so decided to give it a crack.
Quite taken back by the level of commitment and learning involved, but the relaxation of sipping on a pipe for an hour or so certainly makes it a worthwhile hobby in my humble view.
Currently have a couple of pipes – a Savinelli Rusticated 106 and a MM Country Gentleman.
I bought the MM as a knock about pipe and the 106 as my “good” pipe – but to be honest the MM smokes as good if not better currently than my 106.
I’m guessing over time the briar (and my skill level) will potentially flip that view.
Unfortunately, being in Australia, the level of taxation in general, but especially for tobacco, has really activated my anarco capitalist side @ ~$70/oz.
I guess I’m fortunate to some degree that I’m a casual smoker, enjoying a few bowls on the weekend and one occasionally after work during the week.
Still it p!sses me off that I can’t grab 2oz tins for $10 like my US brothers.
Working on the breathe method and retro-hale currently; trying to get the taste of the baccys I’ve got.
It’s a process, but I’m slowly getting more than a mouthful of peppery smoke (working some C&D Autumn Evening and getting maple notes at the moment). Going SLOW and not puffing like a chimney (as you would with a cigar) has been the challenge, all while trying to keep the bowl lit.
Looking forward to learning more and hearing some good yarns from fellow pipers.
