Purchasing A New Pipe Online - Experiences?

[jmsmitty6]

I have purchased every pipe I own online and most from smokingpipes.com. As others have stated, if you call, you can have them go through anything with you. The fact that so many reputable members recommend them on this thread is testament to their customer service.
In addition, I've never had an issue with reputable sellers on Ebay coopersark and pipestud (even though Steve is in Waco!!!)

 

[kickinbears]

Went through the Briar Blues Artisan Pipes inventory yesterday. Those tomato shapes interests me from a flavor profile point of view. Been looking at pot shape lately, and that comes off as a king-of-the-pot shapes!

 

[mso489]

If you really have doubts, try phoning the online retailer, getting them to inspect the pipe, and if it passes their inspection, and the person sounds helpful and credible, go ahead with a moderate priced purchase. Stick to name brands. Once you have had a successful experience this way, you may find yourself buying directly online. Just inspect the pipe when it arrives, and if has obvious problems, return it unsmoked. The ebay is the wild west and requires a lot more research on sellers and due diligence; many love ebay for the sport, and get some terrific deals on good pipes ... and may not mention the rip-offs that occasionally occur. I don't use ebay; too much work required and disappointment involved. Others find that part of the fun.

 

[saltedplug]

Sometimes someone whose integrity you never thought to question gets downright frisky when money is involved. You have to kiss their *ss to accept the return, which I did, but disagreeably as submission isn't my strong suit.