Welcome aboard.
You don't say where you are from and what resources might be available to you locally, so I would suggest that you talk with what pipe smoking friends you have as far as guidance on pipes and tobaccos.
If you have a REAL pipe and cigar store in your area, you might make a visit and tell them what you've told us. A good pipe store can offer a wealth of knowledge.
As far as pipes go, I much prefer briar over all others, having said that, I think Missouri Meerschaum pipes offer the absolute best value for a new pipe smoker. These are the perrenial corn cob pipes and come in different sizes and shapes. Prices vary, but they are just a few bucks. I like the Legend, which is more of what most consider a standard size and I like the Pony, which is a smaller pipe. Both provide excellent smokes and allow the flavors of the tobacco to come through.
As far as tobaccos go, the sky is pretty much the limit. Many people like the old standard tobaccos that were found at the drugstore years ago. I smoke quite a bit of Carter Hall. If you go online you will find:
www.marscigar.com
www.pipesandcigars.com
www.4noggins.com
as well as many others. I have dealt with all three of the above and you can expect terrific quality and service from all.
As far as briar pipes go, many swear by Stanwell, Peterson and Savinelli and they offer a wide range of prices.
There are some good to great bargains on E-bay for estate or used pipes, but you would probably be better served by gaining a bit of expertise before venturing down that road.
Hope this helps some, and again, welcome
