Introducing First Time Smoker: Tips?

[latbomber]

Introducing one of my best friends to the hobby this week and I can't decide what the best tobacco would be. He has never smoked anything before. An aromatic would be good and unoffensive but could bite and possibly gurgle. I have some light Englishes but I fear that might even be too strong. Has anyone had experience with a total beginner? I'm giving him a new cob so the pipe itself shouldnt be a problem.

 

[captainsousie]

1/2 Carter Hall 1/2 properly dried Lane 1Q would be my choice.

 

[hunterwold1]

Boswell's Northwoods might be a good place to start. When I had my first bowl my friend shared his Shenandoah blend from Georgetown Tobacco. I really liked that.

 

[tarak]

I don't smoke too many aros, but have enjoyed CAO Eileen's Dream. To me, it was the coolest smoking aro I've tried. And advise him to sip slow.

 

[foggymountain]

For a cob I like Troost or Black shag.

 

[numbersix]

1/2 Carter Hall 1/2 properly dried Lane 1Q would be my choice.

+1
Or just 1Q alone. It's not my fav, but it's so universally enjoyed and it's a light, easy smoke too.

 

[pstlpkr]

1/2 Carter Hall 1/2 properly dried Lane 1Q would be my choice.

I would just go with 1Q.

Carter Hall is good but, your first pipe should be unadulterated.

IMHO

::

 

[plateauguy]

1Q is what I learned with. The cob is a great idea - filtered or non?
I was introduced to the Falcon metal pipes by a forum member, this has given me a consistantly cool smoke. If your friend enjoys the pipe, he might want to go with a Falcon - 4noggins carries them.

 

[kashmir]

Yeah, for a first timer, I'd also suggest Lane's 1Q.

 

[mso489]

If I were there, I'd give him Lanes LL-7, which I find a little more beguiling than 1Q, but since 1Q is

more readily available, I think that's the one. Also, nothing wrong with Peter Stokkebye's Nougat,

sold as North Sea by Tinder Box. These are all flavorful but relatively mild aromatics that shouldn't

scare off a beginner. Don't lecture, but let him know that's it's okay to re-light; some beginners think

they are screwing up if they can't keep the pipe lit. A cob is a perfect first pipe. I think you'll soon have

a happy camper.