Very nice pipe brother. I like how the colors of the briar, bamboo, and stem contrast so nicely. Since you are now into bamboo and if you like corncobs then you should check out some Riccardo Santia pipes. They are awesome and smoke like a dream.
A very handsome pipe. That bowl shape and grain is a nice compliment to the bamboo. I look forward to seeing the coloring on this one a year from now, they really develop a nice patina. I was at JB Crouch in VA last week, they had an older Savinelli Autograph with a bamboo shank that had a lovely patina. I might have to go back and take another look at that one, it's been sticking in my mind.
Al, thanks. My Sav autograph from the 70's smokes like a dream. Just check the airway before purchasing, sometimes they can be small like many pipes of that era.
phil, thanks for the nice comment. I checked out those cobs, interesting work he does.