Perfect Storm of Repair Difficulty

[georged]

Snapped-off tenon? check

Super high-end collectable, so replacing the entire stem is an extremely undesirable last resort? check

Crazy-small stem & tenon, so it's practically watch repair, not pipe repair? check

Stem is curved w/a flared barrel, so holding it rigidly still for drilling without causing damage is a major PITA? check

Drilled hole must not only be dead-center, but perfectly aligned axially? check

New tenon material must be Delrin to keep it from snapping again, but cutting a rod to .226" diameter without deflection (Delrin is slightly springy) isn't possible without special tools or a watchmaker's lathe? check

 

[doug535]

Nice! A Tokutomi/Eltang collab pipe. Well done!

 

[jhowell]

Only georged could have accomplished this! Total c craftsmanship! Exceedingly well done George!

 

[sablebrush52]

Snapped-off tenon? check

Super high-end collectable, so replacing the entire stem is an extremely undesirable last resort? check

Crazy-small stem & tenon, so it's practically watch repair, not pipe repair? check

Stem is curved w/a flared barrel, so holding it rigidly still for drilling without causing damage is a major PITA? check

Drilled hole must not only be dead-center, but perfectly aligned axially? check

New tenon material must be Delrin to keep it from snapping again, but cutting a rod to .226" diameter without deflection (Delrin is slightly springy) isn't possible without special tools or a watchmaker's lathe? check


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Nice use of licorice bubblegum at the join of the replacement tenon to the stem!

 

[J Clifton]

That was one heck of a challenge! Beautiful work!

 

[geopiper]

It's comforting to know it's still possible to get these types of repairs done. I sure hope these skills aren't lost over the course of time.

 

[jhowell]

I think in George's case it's skill AND talent...

 

[woodsroad]

Makes me want to drop my priciest pipe.