Frank Axmacher AA Grade w/ Horn Shank

[rockvillepete]

I was away from home for two weeks in order to handle a family emergency and when I returned last night I found the Fed Ex box containing the Frank Axmacher pipe waiting for me! With much anticipation I opened the box and removed the smaller Al Pascia box that contained this precious jewel. I couldn’t believe how heavy the box was! The pipe was listed as weighing 60g but the box was at least double if not triple that amount. Had Leonardo slipped in an additional pipe? Upon opening the box I discovered the reason for the additional weight: the pipe was enclosed in the thickest leather sleeve I have ever seen! More than adequate protection for its precious contents.
I have many beautiful pipes in my collection but I believe this one is the most gorgeous of the lot and is the Mercedes SLK 350 of my collection. The elegance of the design and its flowing lines, the awesome grain and warm staining, the horn shank extension into which fits a perfectly executed stem fashioned from the finest German ebonite rod stock all contribute to make one impeccable pipe. This baby wasn’t cheap but Frank still achieved much bang for the buck in his offering. German engineering at its finest!
As visually stunning as it may be, the true test of any pipe is in the smoking. This evening I’ll put it through its paces with a little Briar Fox and see how well it renders the Fox's subtle flavors.

 

[ssjones]

Well, it sure looks fabulous on the computer screen. That looks like one of those pipes that you have to see in person. If you ever have a free night and can make the Frederick Pipe Club meeting, definitely bring that one(along with your Pete's!)

 

[peckinpahhombre]

Gorgeous pipe. I am a sucker for horn.

 

[saltedplug]

Birdseye can have different shapes and be more or less defined. The birdseye on this pipe is so very pretty and a delight to my eye. When of this type I far prefer it to flame or straight grain.