New Pipe Smoker

[mikethompson]

So it looks to me like a Missouri Meerschaum cob pipe is a good inexpensive first choice

I am going to go against the grain and recommend a briar pipe instead of a cob

welcome to the forum first and foremost. I think you will find all sorts of answers here and plenty of opinion too.

An inexpensive cob is a good choice for your first pipe. The entry fee is very low compared to a briar pipe. BUT lately I have come around to the idea of a cheaper briar pipe as a starter pipe. You can find any number of good new briar pipes for under or around $50 which deliver excellent value.

Good luck on your journey!

 

[whsergent]

Welcome Id like to second Carter Hall and its hard to go far wrong with most of the C&D burleys, some can be a little strong, just a word of caution.
Pegasus is good, Not topped or flavored too much.
Lane Blwb is also a good beginner burley smoke, Burns cool tastes good, not overpowering.

 

[Erehwesle]

You mentioned you drink tea? Have you tried Ambessa “The Earl of Harlem” blend by Marcus Samuelsson/Harney &Sons? It’s a smokey earl grey that I enjoy sometimes with my pipe. Bit of acquired taste but good.

Yes, it is a great blend, Harney and Sons has some good ones, are you familiar with Upton Tea in Mass? THey are where I normally order my teas from, and are excellent for single estate assams, darjeelings, and ceylons.

They have two blends I HIGHLY recommend if you like a smokey tea. Baker Street Afternoon which is a blend of Lapsang Sochong Darjeeling and Keemun, and St. Issacs which is like an earl grey but a more Russian blended of Ceylon and China black teas, with bergamot and citrus.

 

[Tommy Boy]

Welcome from S.W Michigan. Sounds like you are well on your way

 

[Erehwesle]

Just a matter of waiting on the post..... shame 'cause today was such a nice day sitting on the porch writing in my journal and doing some light watercolor. Would have loved a smoke.

 

[uzzi101]

Welcome to the hobby. I’m 1 year new to this and often wish I found this haven before diving into the world head first.

I was introduced to pipes though my Gramps too, fond of the occasional cigar, especially on the golf course but leaves my mouth tasting like an ashtray for days.

As for the pipe, it’s in the eye of the beholder. Just like art, the pipe is a piece that is admired. There’s so many choices, it’s easy to buy many. Go slow.

For tobacco, I find Seattle Pipe Club’s blends to be quite nice. If your 1 to like sweet and savory then many of their blends will be nice for you. I find Plumb Pudding (all variations) to be a solid, satisfying choice. The Mississippi River Rum Barrel is awesome too.
Have fun

 

[Dandy Pipesmoker]

Welcome to the community!

Take it easy (and slow) and enjoy, smoke good quality tobacco, and find what you like.

Greetings from Switzerland!
John