New vs. Restored as a first pipe

[chiefwannapuff]

I'm new to this. Looking for my first Briar. I see lots of potential in restored estates vs. new, with regards to being seasoned and already broke in. Not sure if that's the correct approach, but, other than price, has anyone noticed that to be a real advantage?
As a newbie should I start with a cheap restore and practice?
Thoughts? Opinions?
Thanks.

 

[warren]

Why not go cheap and new? Missouri Meerschaum, get two, without having to refurbish a used pipe.

 

[anthonyrosenthal74]

I think it's a good idea if it's a restored pipe that you think you'll enjoy. But if you're careful and you want a new pipe, I think that's fine as well if you're careful. Don't smoke it too hot, don't remove the stem while pipe is still warm (unless it's a spigot or military mount. And don't use a torch lighter. And I think an inexpensive pipe would be best.

 

[saltedplug]

New stuff has the cachet of being new, whatever that is. Were I a newbie I would either go cob for about $10.00 or buy an estate under $50.00. There's a lot of what I feel is misinformation about pipes justifying high prices, but in the end a pipe has two holes, the bigger for tobacco and the smaller to suck the smoke into the mouth. What does matter is spot-on drilling and a comfortable stem. You can find good drilling in spades in estates, but I will say that cheap estates are not noted for steelwork. On the other hand you can buy new factory pipes for about $100.00 all day long. Savinelli makes a good pipe, as do others. You can always post a photo of a pipe(s) that you're thinking about and ask for opinions. Good luck to you and let us know how you're doing.

 

[uperepik]

No reason not to go used, especially for your first pipe.

 

[uperepik]

Was that a double negative?

 

[mothernaturewilleatusallforbreakfast]

Either. It's a personal choice. Just make sure that the pipe is drilled properly before you smoke it. I recommend a GBD estate or new non-filtered Savinelli as possible options. Good luck! ::

 

[Chasing Embers]

Get the pipe that speaks to you.

 

[chiefwannapuff]

Thank you, everyone! Good advice. I like to tinker, so I'll go the restore route, first. Consider proper drilling for research and find the one that speaks to me. Should I encounter issue, I'll get back to you.
When I do go new, I'll consider the GBD and Savinelli line.

 

[nevadablue]

Good for you. I have a small flock of estate briars and one I bought new. All of mine are good pipes, many I wouldn't have been able to afford new.

Yes to a few MM cobs too, good stuff, and cheap.

 

[dmcmtk]

A site you may want to take a look at, one of our sponsors, Blue Room Briars. Estates cleaned and restored to a very high standard, and ready to go.
https://www.blueroombriars.com/pages/estate-pipes

 

[chiefwannapuff]

Dave. Thanks for the link. Those I'll consider before brand new. I'll put something on the xmas wish list and see what shakes out.
Prices on the bay are all over the place. Used GBD seems to be a popular in bid wars. Some are selling pretty cheap, but with issues. Patience is required. I might spring for one of those lots, might be a gem in them, seems like fun.
Question: Can over bit stems be patched with JB Weld or other putty and re-sanded? I understand the JB weld is non toxic when dry? That would open up a whole lot of cheapo's to burn through before committing to a new one.

 

[chiefwannapuff]

Ken. I do have a cob and have only smoked it once and did enjoy it. It's in the truck with a few ounces of OHM Bold, just in case I find myself in a long wait going nowhere.
I really do want to try a briar, and think an antique would make it interesting.

 

[piffyr]

An estate pipe would be a fine choice for a first briar for a new smoker, but there are caveats. It's best to stick with established and reputable sellers such as those found in this forum's sponsor list rather than heading out to the wild west of eBay. There are good deals to be had on eBay for sure, but there are also a lot of ripoffs and bad investment potentials and a new pipe smoker simply doesn't have enough experience to make an informed decision.
A new pipe from an established brand has much less potential for regret in my opinion. Savinelli, Stanwell, Peterson and Bjarne all offer some perfectly serviceable starter pipes that won't break the bank.