Severe Oxidation- Live With It?

[Searock Fan]

Lucite stems look new forever with little to no upkeep.....

 

[paulfg]

Lucite stems look new forever with little to no upkeep.....

But is as hard as rock to my teeth,each to their own but I would rather polish my vulcanite stems occasionally.
I don't need to polish them often,
maybe once a year as they are kept in a cabinet away from direct light

 

[anotherbob]

It's cosmetic. No biggie.

nope that level of oxidization imparts a wonderful sulfurous taste.

 

[telescopes]

Just be care with the lighter. I use a flame as well. But proceed gently.

 

[Jack the ripper]

How many pipes will you seek pedigree for? It’s a basic tool…..most of my vulcanite stems are probably older than you are. I wouldn’t change a thing!

 

[Searock Fan]

But is as hard as rock to my teeth,each to their own but I would rather polish my vulcanite stems occasionally.
I don't need to polish them often,
maybe once a year as they are kept in a cabinet away from direct light

Lucite does have a slight "give" to it. It's not like you're holding steel in your mouth. The thing is vulcanite seems to be better for those who have a hard bite or chew. Fortunately, I don't do either. I have many pipes over 50 years old with lucite stems, have been smoked regularly and have almost no teeth marks at all. It's all about how you treat them.