Another brand you might want to consider is Johs, available at SmokingPipes.com and a couple other places online. These are true Danish handmades at machine prices; I only have one but it has been since the very first break-in half bowl one of my very best smokers. The bit is thin and taut, perfect for my mouth. There are tool marks on the stem, however, which should have been sanded out, but this really doesn't bother me as it smokes so well and has such great balance; the rest of the fit and finish is perfect. Your mileage may vary.