Finally Smoked My Hardcastle

[numbersix]

So I bought this little beauty about 2-3 weeks ago and only now had a chance to smoke it and I have to say it's a great smoker. I was skeptical at first, but I am finally beginning to believe that these older pipes and older briar really do make a difference in smoking qualities.
I still find it strange that it could affect the quality of a smoke, but this pipe is making a believer out of me.

 

[weezell]

Good lookin pipe!

 

[fnord]

It's a beauty, Six.
As to the smokability I would expect nothing less from a pipe made at the Dunhill factory.
Any idea on the age?
Here's some info on the brand from Pipedia: http://pipedia.org/index.php?title=Hardcastle

 

[numbersix]

fnord - that's a good question.
I am not 100% sure. It's an Old Bruyere - which means it's one of Hardcastle's top of the line and supposedly from the "pre-Cadogan era" - but as it was purchased by Dunhill, I don't get the connection with Cadogan (unless Dunhill is also owned by Cadogan?).
From what info I can gather, it most likely is pre-1967 - but how much older is tough to say. From the design of the logo on the shank and the wear on the logo on the stem (it's barely there, looks like it was slowly rubbed down over the years), I am thinking it is likely to be from the 1930s (but that could also be my wishful thinking!)

 

[cigrmaster]

6, I am glad it is a great smoker for you. For the money you can really get some great smoking pipes from the older British makes.

 

[vespertillio]

That is a smart looking pipe there. I'm glad it smokes great.

 

[gwtwdbss]

Great, nice looking pipe. Glad you enjoy it!

 

[irishflake]

My favorite shape! nice!

 

[gnatjulio]

That's a real nice pipe. One of my favorite shapes too. Real glad you enjoyed the smoke. Do you mind if I ask what baccy you smoked out of it.

 

[winterland]

Nice pipe.

 

[numbersix]

That's a real nice pipe. One of my favorite shapes too. Real glad you enjoyed the smoke. Do you mind if I ask what baccy you smoked out of it.

Sure- Lane Limited 1Q.