New to Pipes.

[DieHardAlbo]

Hello Puff.com, I'm Checking out Pipes Recently for the first time, Iv been a Cigar Man most of my life, A close friend introduced me to Pipes and i love them, Maybe even more then Cigars now.

So now I'm trying to get all the info on Pipes, Everything is Appreciated, Tobacco, Pipes, Good Cleaners, Flavors. Everything really, any information is welcomed..I'm new to this Site. Thanks to all. ~Albo4Life~

[Dedalus]

Pipe FAQ/101/Getting Started

YouTube - dubinthedam's Channel

[Blaylock]

Well, I see you found us!

Lots of good information here, and great people willing to lend a hand if you need it!

[DieHardAlbo]

I read the Link & watched the Vid, Anymore Info?

[Dedalus]

Albo,
There are 7 pages to that link that should get you started, and will undoubtedly lead to more specific questions. Also, Dub has about 25 videos. When I first started I set aside a couple hours and watched them all, and still go back to them from time to time. They're super helpful and clear.
All the best as you begin your journey. Cheers.

[ghe]

I found the The Ask A Pipe Guy sticky thread (Ask a Pipe Guy) very worthwhile to read from beginning to end.

[uncballzer]

I'll repost!

Here's some more links to get started:
Noob PIPE links and help

[DieHardAlbo]

Alright I'm checking all of that out, Thanks for all the Resources of information. I just have another question before i close this thread. I know a lot of people say some of the taste comes from the wood. But what do you guys think about the Steel Bowls Vs Wooden Bowls.

[uncballzer]

Haven't ever tried a steel bowl, but to see how much difference the taste is between pipes--try cobs, briar, and a meerschaum. (Starting with cob is best choice--you'll be able to practice lighting/filling and all the techniques without destroying a good meer/briar in the process).

[Arizona]

Welcome to the Forum, you'll find all the info and experience you'll ever need right here if you check in every day and peruse the threads.

Start out with a few cobs. Get a packet of soft/absorbant pipe cleaners, a tamper and you're in business. Be patient and enjoy. Relax and dont' fret too much over it not going perfectly at first. You may have to relight the pipe a few times per bowl but no big deal.

If you get a pipe with filters just toss the filter. You don't need it and all it does is collect gunk and tar and foul up the taste of your pipe.

The most common mistake new guys make is filling the pipe too tightly. Err on the side of filling it too loosely and you'll be OK. The pipe should draw easily - sort of like sipping soda through a straw.

Don't puff the pipe like a locomotive - just sip it smooth and steadily. If the pipe feels too hot in your hand you're usually puffing too fast - slow it down a bit. "Too hot" is usually defined by it burning your cheek if you touch the side of the bowl to your cheek. It will be a little hot always of course, just shouldn't be scorching hot on the sides of the bowl.

Feel free to ask any questions, but do NOT try pipe-pointing until you've gotten some experience under your belt! (See the "Pipe-Pointing" thread by Rolando)