Pipe stems

[rhurd1]

What are the best and worst types of pipe stems

 

[chubbster]

This will be purely subjective.
Each stem material has pros and cons.
I prefer ebonite over any others. I like the feel, don't mind the maintenance and pretty much all the pipes I but come with ebonite/vulcanite.

 

[rhurd1]

Guess I should ask which is the most bite proof

 

[kf4bsb]

Acrylic is very bite resistant. I have made a lot of replacement stems for people out of Acrylic/Lucite with very good results. Is bite through a big problem for you?

 

[chubbster]

Acrylic. Hands down.
However, I am purely a clencher. I use the soft tips. Some like them, some don't.

 

[rhurd1]

Thanks, yes it used to be more so when I had a pipe in my mouth most of the day. Now I am smoking less but enjoying it more and taking time to smoke.

 

[stylus156]

I too am going through a learning process with stems, pros and cons, cleaning, which manufacturer uses what, etc. I am only smoking vulcanites right now but look forward to trying acrylic with a soft tip bite for the easier maintenance.
So far I am a Peterson & Brebbia user, I know the Petes have vulcanite primarily, but am trying to decipher the Brebbias more clearly...
M.