Buzzard, if chain smoking a briar pipe works for you, I imagine that's a good thing. I have always been of the belief that briar pipes should be allowed to rest a few days after smoking a bowl or two. Just a heads-up, here are a few reasons why for you to consider:
Resting a briar pipe after smoking is a common practice among pipe enthusiasts. While it’s not strictly necessary, there are several reasons why many pipe smokers choose to let their briar pipes rest for a day or more:
- Moisture Evaporation: When you smoke a pipe, it accumulates moisture from the tobacco. Allowing the pipe to rest allows this moisture to evaporate, preventing it from lingering inside the pipe. A dry pipe tends to smoke better and provides a more enjoyable experience.
- Cooling Down: Pipes heat up during smoking due to the combustion process. Resting the pipe allows it to cool down, which can help prevent overheating and potential damage to the briar wood.
- Flavor Enhancement: Resting allows the pipe to recover fully, enhancing the flavors of different tobacco blends. When a pipe is too wet, it may mute some of the subtle nuances in the tobacco.
- Wood Rejuvenation: Briar pipes are made from porous wood. Resting allows the wood to rejuvenate, ensuring it remains in good condition. Over time, the natural resins in the briar can migrate through the wood, leading to a better smoking experience.
- Avoiding Mold and Odor: Chronic dampness inside the pipe can lead to mold growth and unpleasant odors. Resting the pipe helps keep it dry and fresh.
