Pipe Length Preference?

[jiminy]

Alright, so I know that this is a highly subjective thing, but do you prefer a shorter pipe or a more standard/long pipe? For instance, the Savinelli 106 is generally produced to be around 5.5 inches long, but they also make a pocket version that is a little under 5 inches. Other companies may produce models that are standard sized (5.5-6"), while having pocket/shorter models a inch or so shorter. If given the choice, what would you choose, and why? Are there any inherent advantages/disadvantages? I'm more of a standard length fan myself, but that is purely based on aesthetics for me.

 

[Swiss Army Knife]

I tend to clench my pipes so generally longer mean faster jaw fatigue.

 

[bullet08]

Never measured them. So, not sure. But I don't smoke nose warmer, nor do I smoke churchwarden.

 

[SBC]

I like standard length, as well as moderately longer shapes (e.g. the "Prince" shape), as well as churchwardens.

What I do not like are shorter pipes. I cannot stand the smoke in my nose and eyes, and I have always re-homed these.

 

[jiminy]

What I do not like are shorter pipes. I cannot stand the smoke in my nose and eyes, and I have always re-homed these.

I've never had a proper nose-warmer, but I like full bents. Mind you, then hanging around my chin is different than one at the tip of your nose haha

 

[jiminy]

I tend to clench my pipes so generally longer mean faster jaw fatigue.

Good point, I didn't consider this as a possible reason.

 

[cigrmaster]

All my pipes are at least 5 inches and my longest is 6.5 inches of which I only have a few. I do own a number of straight pipes mostly around 5.5. I have only a few pipes that are 6-6.5. 2 are Rad Davis Lovats, a Rad Davis Billiard and a Brian Ruthenberg Caliper grade Dublin.


My big Rad Davis and Brian Ruthenberg I will hold more while I smoke them. I can still clench easy enough while lighting them up but I use my hand more on those. My two 6.5 inch Rad Lovats are light enough to clench while smoking as both are straight. For years the only thing I have smoked in them is 2007 Stonehaven. They both love that blend.

 

[SBC]

I've never had a proper nose-warmer, but I like full bents. Mind you, then hanging around my chin is different than one at the tip of your nose haha

I really like half-bent pipes, but I do not like full-bent pipes for the same reason -- smoke in my face. YMMV.

 

[didimauw]

Alright, so I know that this is a highly subjective thing, but do you prefer a shorter pipe or a more standard/long pipe? For instance, the Savinelli 106 is generally produced to be around 5.5 inches long, but they also make a pocket version that is a little under 5 inches. Other companies may produce models that are standard sized (5.5-6"), while having pocket/shorter models a inch or so shorter. If given the choice, what would you choose, and why? Are there any inherent advantages/disadvantages? I'm more of a standard length fan myself, but that is purely based on aesthetics for me.

I prefer anything 5 to 5 1/2. And won't buy a pipe if it's marked outside of that range. The Savinelli 106 is my favorite shape of all time.

 

[jiminy]

I prefer anything 5 to 5 1/2. And won't buy a pipe if it's marked outside of that range. The Savinelli 106 is my favorite shape of all time.

Interesting! What is the primary reason for staying in that range?

I have a friend who got a Sav 106 in March, and everytime he uses it he marvels at how well it smokes. It is a sharp looking pipe

 

[El Capitán]

I like my pipes from 13-15 inches. I feel I don't get as much heat.

 

[sandollars]

@Chasing Embers latest commission...

 

[mso489]

Somewhat shorter pipes apply less leverage against the teeth and strike me as more comfortable. But I like a churchwarden for a long smoke seated in a chair with arms. I have a clay pipe from Holland that is about 14 inches long. And I enjoy nose warmers and don't find that the smoke gets in my eyes or nose. I guess I enjoy variety, with short medium being a favorite.

 

[makhorkasmoker]

Shorter is better for me.

 

[Swiss Army Knife]

View attachment 170456
@Chasing Embers latest commission...

Chamber could be bigger.

 

[Chasing Embers]

View attachment 170456
@Chasing Embers latest commission...

Chamber could be bigger.

It always amazes me that no one realizes that Brad's pipes dwarf mine.

 

[ThermionicScott]

I've got pipes ranging from about 3" to about 16", but don't seem to have developed a preference. I'll have to smoke them all again and get back to you.

 

[OzPiper]

I'm height challenged, so I have a strong preference for 4"" to 6"(max) with 5" being the sweet spot.
I like nose warmers even though I don't clench.

Yes, I know hobbits are partial to churchwardens, but I don't like them or even "semi-wardens.

 

[telescopes]

My collection of pipe runs the gambit from churchwardens to pocket size Lovats. More often then not, I find myself reaching for the smaller shorter older makes. Why? Time for one and two, the ability to multitask. but when time is not an obstacle, the longer legged ladies take the catwalk.

 

[kcghost]

About 5.5" works well for me.