Jay, In an effort to rescue this thread a bit let me say that:
If Coyote left the forum, then even though I know some liked him and no offense intended, but I say good riddance to him and I cannot say I'm really surprised. I caught him in a bold faced lie on another thread and rather than simply own up to it, all he did is attack me and another member here with more absurd accusations.
That said (here is the relevant part), and ignoring all of the disgusting bodily fluids so far, has anyone ever tried just treating their briar with Liquid Gold? I've used it for years and think the stuff is great. It imparts oils back into the wood and leaves the wood healthy, refreshed and vibrant, with no need to wax. I like a natural finish and do not care for glossy pipes sealed in wax. Liquid Gold leaves a rich, deep luster that enhances the grain of the wood. Naturally. I like a natural wood. And the stuff smells great.