Stanwell HCA Issue Opinions?

[PapaCoolDown]

My experiences with Pipes and Cigars has been exceptionally good, though I typically only order from them if a new Stanwell catches my eye or if they have a really amazing sale. I try to buy my tobacco local, and SP is just better for pipes all around. I will say P&C does use generic stock images for their pipes, sadly. Even so, the difference in the picture and what you got is very obvious. I'd request a return.

As for Stanwell pipes themselves? The new ones are made in Italy, so some of the old heads who were enamored with Stanwell's past with famous Danish carvers are quick to hate on the new pipes. Which is understandable. But I have Danish and Italian Stanwell pipes, and both tend to punch way above their weight given their asking price. Estate Stanwell pipes are surprisingly cheap and easy to come by, so if you see one in good shape that catches your fancy, then definitely pull the trigger. I'm actually surprised they haven't become more collectible like old Petersons are.

Thanks man. I will look for some estates to try out. I saw the Stanwell Christmas pipe from 2000 and will add it to my collection some day. That is a great looking pipe.

 

[PLANofMAN]

I picked up this estate Stanwell 63M (pre-HCA) churchwarden this past February off eBay for $90. Good deals can be still be had.

Granted, each time I smoke it, I start muttering about "bothersome hobbits." Your milage may vary.

 

[coming to_falling too]

This is easily one of my best smokers. It was made in 2001 for a smoking competition, I believe. And the blast is phenomenal. I have a few other Stanwell pipes from the 80s and 90s and they're all pretty decent.

OP, you should check out Blue Room Briars. They usually have Danish made Stanwells in stock

 

[PapaCoolDown]

Granted, each time I smoke it, I start muttering about "bothersome hobbits." Your milage may vary.

Hobbits always create too much chaos in my life as well.

 

[BenMN]

This is easily one of my best smokers. It was made in 2001 for a smoking competition, I believe. And the blast is phenomenal. I have a few other Stanwell pipes from the 80s and 90s and they're all pretty decent.

OP, you should check out Blue Room Briars. They usually have Danish made Stanwells in stock

If you are interested in Danish made estate Stanwells I would second site sponsor Blue Room Briars. You'll pay a bit of a premium due to their professional refurbishing, which I have been happy with. If you buy one they will also refurbish (ream/buff/polish) once per year for free. I have not used this service yet but am sure they do a good job

Estate Pipes – tagged "Stanwell" – Blue Room Briars

Estate pipes are simply pipes that have been pre-owned in the past, or new old stock, purchased from another company. Our estate pipes are thoroughly cleaned and inspected to ensure that you don't have to do anything out of the box, other than select, pack, and smoke your preferred blend. If you...

www.blueroombriars.com

The most common competition marking is DM = Danmarks Mesterskab, although there are others

 

[BenMN]

I would add though- if new Italian Stanwells are what you like then nothing wrong with rolling with that. Another site sponsor The Danish Pipe Shop keeps a good supply

Pipes - The Danish Pipe Shop

At The Danish Pipe Shop in Copenhagen, Denmark you find the largest selection of tobacco pipes in Northern Europe: Tom Eltang, Stanwell, Peter Heding, Neerup Pipes, Poul Winsløw Pipes and many more!

www.danishpipeshop.com

But know that they coat estate bowls with waterglass..

*not trying to nudge you in one direction or the other. Just hoping to share info you may find useful!

 

[PapaCoolDown]

I would add though- if new Italian Stanwells are what you like then nothing wrong with rolling with that. Another site sponsor The Danish Pipe Shop keeps a good supply

Pipes - The Danish Pipe Shop

At The Danish Pipe Shop in Copenhagen, Denmark you find the largest selection of tobacco pipes in Northern Europe: Tom Eltang, Stanwell, Peter Heding, Neerup Pipes, Poul Winsløw Pipes and many more!

www.danishpipeshop.com

But know that they coat estate bowls with waterglass..

*not trying to nudge you in one direction or the other. Just hoping to share info you may find useful!

Haha, thanks Ben. Are you going to make it to Anthony’s tomorrow night?

 

[telescopes]

From my experience, Pipes and Cigars often has the blending tobaccos that I need for some of my own home blends. They also have some of the cheaper tobaccos in bulk that my dad loves to smoke. I have never had any problems with them, but then, maybe I have and it just didn't register. I am pretty easy going when it comes to doing business.