In the world of tobacco pipes, estate pipes refer to previously owned pipes. The term also connotes old pipes that have not been smoked. They offer a unique opportunity to own a vintage or rare pipe at a fraction of the cost of a new one. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about estate pipes.
Where Can you Find Estate Pipes?
You can find estate pipes in several places. The only catch is that you will need to look hard enough and conduct adequate research to know what you need: Here are your best options.
Pipe Shops
You can find estate pipes at good old pipe shops. The good thing about sourcing vintage products here is that they are refurbished, meaning you don’t have to work on them.
Online Retailers
You can buy your highly-sought after estate pipes from online retailers. They often have a wide selection of products, ranging from classic Dunhill estate pipes to modern designs. Similarly to pipe shops, you will find refurbished and new old stock pipes.
Estate, Garage Sales, and Flea Markets.
You may find pleasant surprises at places like these. Most times, you will have to search hard to find a hidden gem. Bear in mind that estate sale pipes may not be in the best condition and require more elbow grease to restore them to usable conditions.
What Should I Look For When Buying an Estate Pipe?
Regardless of how you buy Dunhill pipes or other brands, you should consider the following factors.
Condition: The most important thing to consider is the condition of the pipe. Check for cosmetic and structural damages such as chips, cracks, or other imperfections.
Size: Choose a size and design that is comfortable for you.
Draft hole: Check the draft hole (the hole through which you draw smoke) to make sure it is not blocked or too small. A blocked or small draft hole can make smoking the pipe difficult.
Stem: The stem should not have cracks or damage.
Chamber: Look inside the chamber (the area that holds the tobacco) for any cracks or damage. Most times, damage to this part will affect the overall smoking experience.
How do I Care For an Estate Pipe?
Caring for an estate pipe is similar to caring for a new product with a few extra steps to consider:
Clean the Pipe: Make sure to thoroughly clean the pipe before smoking it. This includes removing any old tobacco residue and cleaning the stem and chamber.
Season the Pipe: If the pipe has not been smoked in a while, it may benefit from seasoning. Seasoning a pipe involves repeatedly smoking mild tobacco to coat the inside of the chamber and stem- This can help improve the smoking performance.
Use a Pipe Cleaner: Make sure to use a pipe cleaner after each smoke to remove any moisture or debris from the stem and chamber- This will help prevent the pipe from becoming clogged or damaged.
Store the Pipe Properly: Make sure to store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This will help prevent the pipe from becoming damaged or warped.
