Opinions on Filtered VS. Non-Filtered Pipes

[dongreyface]

So I'm curious on what the majority think of the different pipes. And I guess a subquestion would be if you aquire a filtered pipe, do you leave the filter in or take it out? The first couple pipes I bought are filtered but I have since removed the filter because it is so much easier for me to puff without the filter in. As for a taste difference, I haven't really noticed any. But then again my pallet isn't quit as refined as a seasoned smoker.

 

[ace57]

I remove the filters but I have one that has to have one in to smoke it's a Ventilator pipe that smoke well for Me.

 

[markw4mms]

I don't do filters either, except for my Sav's with the balsa wood filters, they're ok.

 

[philip]

I've never had a problem with the filter affecting the draw, so I have just used the filters with the pipes designed for them. My cobs tend to burn a little hot so I'm glad to have the filters there. On the other hand, my Design Berlin pipe was designed for a 9mm filter and I have not been able to find them locally. It has smoked just fine without the filters. So really, I have no idea. :roll:

 

[juni]

I have one filter pipe and I guess the balsa filters are ok but it smokes just great without it too so I never bother with the filter. One less expense, I guess.

 

[aussielass]

Newbie comment/question .... I've read (on Wesley's Pipes site) that if a pipe is designed to use a filter but you choose not to, apparently you must use an adapter, or if that name's wrong, it's a wee black tube I've seen on all sites, in lieu of the filter otherwise it does serious damage due to moisture getting where it shouldn't?

 

[juni]

I've never had that problem. I think the adapter makes the draw a little bit less open.

 

[scotrob]

all my pipes are filterless, but on those occasions when i have smoked a pipe with a filter i didnt really notice a lot of difference....maybe the smoke is a little cooler for having passed by some filter/metal, but i think its a matter of personal preference and I dont believe there are many pipes where filter removal could ever damage it, certainly not with briars which absorb moisture so well anyway

 

[yohanan]

I occasionally use a filter with my savinelli's, it also depends what type of tobacco I will be smoking. But for the most part I dont use them.

 

[ichbinmuede]

I use filters in all but one of my Brigham's which is the best filter system ever (the one just seems to get along better without) and I have tried about every filter system I've come across. Medico? Eh, I don't really care for them. 9mm Charcoal filters? Europe may like them but I do not. Savinelli? Better than the charcoal but just not my bag.

 

[pipetrucker]

I like the Savinelli balsa filter, but always remove the paper filters from Grabows and similar pipes.

 

[aussielass]

Managed to find the snippet I'd read on this - they have some fantastic photos showing severe damage too, but being as they're not a sponsor I guess I'm not allowed to put up the link? Anyway, here's the relevant text:
A most important word of warning about filter pipes:

Filter pipes must be smoked with either the filter or an adapter (usually supplied with the pipe).

Smoking without the filter (or adapter), even once, will allow moisture to condense in the empty space and seep into the shank, causing it to swell. This will result in a cracked shank, or a loose mouthpiece which is very difficult to remedy.

 

[ichbinmuede]

I'm not entirely convinced that is true. In my Georg Jensen that is drilled for 9mm filters both the filter and the adapter don't add over much to the length in to the shank nor does it gather much moisture behind it. I do use the adapter for it but that's because I don't care for the draw without it not because of concern. I'm sure that it could crack if it smoked very wet and wasn't allowed to rest but the same is true for any pipe.

 

[juvat270]

This subject has been beat to death on every pipe smoker’s forum on the internet by the same people who ask and answer the same questions on every pipe smoker’s forum on the internet. Google and forum search engines are your friend, and yes, I smoke filtered pipes with the filter. I do not use filters for a cool, dry smoke, I already smoke a pipe cool and dry, and I use them to help remove the oils and tars from the smoke stream for a cleaner, fresher tasting smoke.

Yikes! Sounds like someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed... 8O
As for the OP's question. If its a Dr. Grabow, I take the paper filter and chuck it into the garbage. Those paper filters are worthless IMO.
As for the few Savinellis I own. I do occasionally use the filter when I smoke certain aromatics. I don't notice anything taste wise but it does seem to cut down on the excess moisture and occasional gurgle. For other blends I don't bother with it.

 

[marmal4de]

This subject has been beat to death on every pipe smoker’s forum on the internet by the same people who ask and answer the same questions on every pipe smoker’s forum on the internet. Google and forum search engines are your friend, and yes, I smoke filtered pipes with the filter. I do not use filters for a cool, dry smoke, I already smoke a pipe cool and dry, and I use them to help remove the oils and tars from the smoke stream for a cleaner, fresher tasting smoke.

Woah woah woah, hold the vitriol please.
I pass on filters, the things are damn nasty.

 

[olderthandirt]

hehe

Search functions are all well and good but so is conversation, even if it's a repeat.
Same here with respect to the Savinellis'.

I use neither the filters or the adapters. Knock wood no problems. I do swab the shank after each bowl though.

 

[brewshooter]

I've never had a problem with the filter affecting the draw, so I have just used the filters with the pipes designed for them.

This is my take as well.

 

[harrier52]

Personally i hate paper filters. But i do use my Balsa filters regularly in my Savinelli pipes and found they also fit quite nicely into my grabows.

 

[buster]

Being new to pipe smoking I appreciate this topic. Especially since I just got a Dr. Grabow freehand that has a paper filter. I plan on using it for aromatics and am going to try with and with out said filter. Since aromatics seem to smoke wet I am wondering if it will help a little. Some times a little help is all it takes to make it more enjoyable. I'll get back to you on how it goes. Since I am just now coming back to the land of the living after being sick for a while. I have not smoked for two weeks. I have some Q1 to try for the first time and am looking forward to a Scotch and water with my pipe out on the back porch this week end.