Suggestions on getting started.

[tlindow]

As I am a new pipe smoker, would someone like to suggest a few classic tobaccos I must try out? So far I've just smoked Tinderbox in-store brands. I've enjoyed several, with Burleylight being my favorite so far, and Espresso #2. Their Wilshire I like pretty well also.
Also, what are your thoughts in what I might want to be looking for in my next few pipes? (My first pipe is a La Rocca brand, Ravina model. Seems like a good starter pipe. I like the bent/curved shaped, but haven't tried others yet, of course.) I don't expect to become a huge collector, and these would be "working pipes" but I would like to try a few that are very different. Is there anywhere you know of where you can "try out" a pipe and see if you like it? (Sounds a little gross, I know.)
Thanks for helping the newbie, guys.

 

[winton]

There are many guys that enjoy corn cob pipes. I actually took one to the Chicago Pipe Show, since they are great for trying out different blends. If you want to try different styles, then you have to buy them. Perhaps you should get Dr Graybow pipes. They are great starter pipes. Stay away from "basket pipes" from tobacco shops. They may or may not be decent.
Sounds like you found some good tobaccos to start.
Winton

 

[entz72]

Since I am from PA, I would like to suggest Boswell's Pipe tobacco. go to their website and check them out www.boswellpipes.com

 

[unclearthur]

Peterson and Savinelli both offer excellent entry level pipes. I agree on avoiding the basket pipes. The Tinderbox pipes are (or were, when there was still one near here) made by major manufacturers . I have several that are excellent. Cobs are also a good way to get going in pipe smoking.

 

[cortezattic]

The selection of both pipes and tobaccos is a pretty personal thing. The pipe(s) you choose will

be dictated mainly by appearance, size, and situation (i.e. if both your hands will usually be

occupied, a 3/4 or full bent pipe will give you plenty of leverage for tooth clenching, etc.)

PipesAndCigars.com has a selection of entry level pipes you might want to look over.
For tobaccos, an organized approach is best. My suggestion would be to sample from the various

tobacco genres for exposure and education. For this, check out Luxury Tobacco Reviews.com.

In the left hand column most of the popular blends are organized by "Tobacco Categories";

and whether or not there is a smoker review, each blend's tin description usually appears.

This will help you navigate the bewildering world of tobacco.
Keep in mind that pipe smoking is somewhat of an acquired taste, and an ongoing learning process;

but with persistence the perplexity will eventually vanish, and you will find yourself luxuriating

in billowy clouds of Elysian bliss -- well, most of the time. :lol:

 

[admin]

Tom, it looks like you are about 12 miles from Smoker's Haven in Columbus. You can get directions right from that link using our Pipe Store Locator.
I would go there and see if they have any open tins for sampling. I don't know if they do, but some stores do and some don't.
There's nothing like being able to smell the tobacco and hold the pipes. Some stores have little plastic covers they put over the stem so you can try it in your mouth too.
Here are a few blend recommendations -
- Frog Morton (McClelland) (A mild - medium English / Latakia, which will be smoky)

- Maltese Falcon (G. L. Pease) (A mild - medium English / Latakia, which will be smoky with a little sweetness)

- Manhattan Afternoon (Cornell & Diehl) (A nice sweet Virginia with honey added.)

- Escudo Navy De Luxe (A slightly sweet Virginia / Perique in "Coin" form.)
I could list over 100, but that's a start.

 

[jasongone]

oops doubled posted.

 

[jasongone]

along with smokers haven i would also suggest braclay pipes in columbus. they have a very good selection of estate pipes cleaned sanitized and polished up.