- Joined
- May 26, 2008
- Messages
- 202
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Obviously, in earlier decades pipe production dwarfed today's production and many grand old names--that are now defunct or a shadow of a former self-- were available as regular production pipes. But, the choices of the 1950s or 1960s smoker were essentially limited to factory production pipes. While much of the factory production was very good, are we not now in a golden age of pipes in that what many of us are smoking are better made, better engineered handmade pieces?
I suppose it could be argued that the briar now is not as well aged as in the past but many of the artisans appear to take great pains to acquire fine briar and prepare it well for carving.
Shapes, too, are arguably more interesting. While I love the classic shapes, especially, of the English pipes from earlier times, I can still find those shapes plus many more variations and innovations in addition.
As I examine and buy more pipes, and, especially, as I choose between estates and handmades, it just seems to me that, although the pipe smoking culture is much smaller than in past decades, those of us sensible enough to enjoy this great hobby are buying and smoking an overall better quality pipe than our predecessors.
Thoughts?
I suppose it could be argued that the briar now is not as well aged as in the past but many of the artisans appear to take great pains to acquire fine briar and prepare it well for carving.
Shapes, too, are arguably more interesting. While I love the classic shapes, especially, of the English pipes from earlier times, I can still find those shapes plus many more variations and innovations in addition.
As I examine and buy more pipes, and, especially, as I choose between estates and handmades, it just seems to me that, although the pipe smoking culture is much smaller than in past decades, those of us sensible enough to enjoy this great hobby are buying and smoking an overall better quality pipe than our predecessors.
Thoughts?