Mild Concern About Stem

[mick92]

Hello all,
smoked my Crown 733 briar pipe yesterday and cleaned it.
Noticed that on the stem, specifically the part that inserts into the shank, some deformation and bubbling has occurred on the rim near the hole (presumably from too much heat.)
Is it still safe to smoke out of?

 

[jaytex1969]

If plastic is melting and deforming, it's likely giving off some less than healthy content into the air stream.
I'm guessing this pipe is fairly new and you observed no damage before smoking it?
If so, I'd return it for a refund.
P&C lists the stem material as molded plastic. I'd seek vulcanite or acrylic for your next pipe choice.

 

[mick92]

Thank you very kindly for the advice.
After I knocked the tobacco and dottle out of the pipe I replaced it inside of a pouch while it was cooling.
Should I also dispose of the pouch and its contents? I'd made sure no smoke or significant heat emanated from said pipe before storing.

 

[jaytex1969]

Your pouch is likely fine, although keeping the pipe in the open air after smoking will generally be better for it, as it is drying out for the next usage.