To filter or not to filter.............that is the question. Well .....I honestly can say that I personally have had no desire to try one...so I'm no help with personal experiences. Some would probably tell you that a filter pipe is the only pipe to smoke, others would tell ya there crap....so now we're in a quandary. I could tell you English blends are the bomb....others would argue that Vaper's are better. I would say that "cake happens" so don't worry about it to much and get flamed by those that believe there are certain rituals that must be adhered to.
The point I'm trying to make here is you have come to the right place for guidance...but understand that a lot is subjective. As you dive into this sport you will find what works best for you, what pipe you prefer, what blend you like etc...I know right now you want to try everything.....I'm still that way, however, pipe smoking is about patience you can't rush any of it.
You are on the right track, there has been a lot of sound advice already....good luck.
