I'll second all of the suggestions on pipes made so far in this thread. Just be aware, MM cobs come in filtered and unfiltered
versions. Starting out, you might want the unfiltered versions to get a clear taste on the tobaccos you are sampling. After
that, you might sometimes enjoy a filter; some folks (often Europeans) smoke almost exclusively filtered. Briar pipes that
can be bought on a budget -- there are a lot of them. Here are a few: Unfinished Savenelli pipes, unlike most Savenellis, are
sold unfiltered and cost around $50, from Pipe and Leaf and Cup O Joes, among others. Iwan Ries has house pipes, Iwan
Ries Exclusives, for about $34 to $52, and I recommend both their medium size and compact pipes (which are really quite
ample and good pocket pipes). I think PTM Amadeus pipes with Greek briars, from Iwan Ries, are excellent. And Chapuis-
Comoy from Tobaccopipes.com are excellent briar pipes for $31 to $50 -- just look for the Add to my Cart icon, since
they picture many pipes that are out of stock. Those are just a few good smoking pipes that are very reasonable in price.
Also, I am very pleased with Old Dominion corn cob pipes with bamboo stems, for a historical experience in a good light weight
pipe. One or two of these briars ought to get you started, with MM and/or Old Dominion cobs to round out a rotation. You
don't have to be a rich guy to enjoy a pipe.