New Peterson Real Bad Taste!

[greatsteaks]

Bought my first Peterson last week, a Kapet rustic 69. I unboxed it while driving home and put it in my mouth for the first time and couldn't get my window down fast enough! Had to spit the salty taste out of my mouth (and I love salt)! Then I smelled the bowl and yuk!! Took it home and cleaned the entire bit with grain alchohol, also cleaned the bowl with it too, cleaned it till there was no more black (stain?) coming off. It then was fine. Are all Petersons like that? I have been smoking cobs and baskets prior to this and never experienced anything like it. I have been smoking two bowls of CH a day since I bought it and can't really complain about the break in process that everyone, including the owner of the shop, warned me about with Petersons.

On a side note, I have read that you should test the draw on a new pipe before you buy it if you are buyin in person, how does one do that, I would think once it hits your mouth your committed to buy it, no? Thanks for any replies in advance.

 

[hans]

There has been a lot of talk on this site about the quality issues a lot of new peterson's have. them seem to be staining the whole briar lately, bowl and all.

i think there are a few threads on here about advice on how to clean that out or even ream it out down to wood.

 

[docwatson]

Personally I would clean the smoke chamber with alcohol and/or sand the inside gently to remove any stain on a new pipe.

As for trying new pipes for comfort. Years ago most shops had disposable slip on cellophane sleeves for the stems so you could determine if the fit was a good one for you. I haven't seen this practice in quite a while.

 

[rhogg]

I look at many Peterson's..... their quality control is bad for the price range. Draft holes, stem fit, staining.... you name it. The pipes are hit or miss. I don't buy the new ones.

 

[mrenglish]

Some shops have pipe condoms, which are little plastic sleeves that slip onto the bit and then you can put it in your mouth. This lets you test the draw but wont leave anything on the pipe. I think Chacom made a bunch, one of our local shops has them. I know this sounds funny, but it works. :D

 

[numbersix]

Welcome to the forum!
Petersons are IMHO a bitch to break-in, but it sounds like you're doing better than many others.
I have a couple of Petersons and while they have their QC issues, I still like them and use both of mine frequently. So congrats! A new pipe is always nice.