The Magnet of Simplicity in Pipe Design

[mso489]

I have almost sixty pipes including cobs. I enjoy smoking all of them in rotation. But I have noticed

the distinct pull of the simpler shapes and the more traditional finishes. I like my variety of shapes

and points of national origin, but the billiards bent and straight, Dublins and bulldogs, as old standbys,

seem to get a little more action than others. Often, if I am smoking to relax, I don't want a conversation

with the pipe so much as to have the pipe support my conversation with myself, thoughts and revery.

Do you mostly reach for simplicity, or do you go for novelty first when you choose a pipe to smoke?

 

[agnosticpipe]

I don't have many pipes of a "novel" design. I find myself drawn to the simpler traditionally designed pipes. I love looking at, and I truly appreciate the work and artistry of interesting shapes and materials, but for me I find myself happiest smoking a straight or bent billiard or something similar. Don't know why I'm this way, but I've been like this for a long time, and don't see it changing anytime soon. :crazy:

 

[sallow]

Yes, I prefer a pipe to look like a pipe. Nothing fancy. Most of mine are straight or 1/4 bent, and come in just under 5'.

 

[jfox520]

Classics Canadians mostly.

 

[prndl]

in my time, the simpler designs I have come upon just seem to outlast the madder.
bent and straight billiards here.

 

[macabra11]

Most of mine are straight or 1/4 bent, and come in just under 5'

WHOA! Are you smoking alpenhorns!?!!

 

[msandoval858]

I too own a range of shapes that I enjoy. However, something about a perfect traditional straight billiard is just very appealing to me.

 

[metarzan]

For me there is a time to clinch, a time to hang and a time to hold. I like an effortless full bent hanging while driving. Most of the time lately I prefer a traditional clench while relaxing. Seems I go for the more cumbersome holders when smoking aromatics. As far as pure looks go I prefer traditional shapes with more modern textures. Awesome time to be a pipe smoker!

 

[settersbrace]

At one time I had a pretty varied collections of shapes with a couple of really plug ugly Frankenstein pipes and having gone through that "phase" I'm now more drawn to the classic shapes with billiards being at the head of the class. Lovat and smallish Canadians appeal to me as well. It's become more about the comfort of the pipe in my mug more than anything more recently. A flat, vulcanite fishtail just pulls it all together for me as I relax and puff contently.

 

[ssjones]

I'm all about the classic shapes, primarily the Rhodesian and Bulldog. Boring to some I suppose.