The $200 Dollar Question. The R. Quagliata Experience

[Sigmund_]

Having smoked pipes for a while and having been more recently introduced to pipe forums I’ve heard and asked the question: “Does a two hundred dollar pipe smoke better than a less expensive factory pipe?” I really wanted to find out. After owning dozens of very acceptable pipes by many factory makers I decided to experiment. On a bit of a whim I ordered a hand made pipe from Ryan Quagliata (http://www.rquagliatapipes.com/). I expected a pipe that might be a little better, maybe a little more free on the draw. I really wasn’t sure what to expect. I wasn’t even convinced I’d notice a difference (consider me a cynic).

I received my first RQ pipe and noticed immediate differences in the draw hole as well as the stem. While unpacking it at the post office (since the box wouldn’t fit in my motorcycle saddle bags) I took a draw off the empty pipe and found a shocking lack of resistance. I hurried home where I loaded it up with some Stonehaven.


My first and continued response was WOW! I first packed it normally and everything was great. Then I gave it a good tamping. It burned even better and the resistance was still low. Eventually, I tamped this chamber like I have tamped no other and I could not make this pipe clog. No clogging, no gurgling, not one single issue. Additionally, the coating Ryan uses in his pipes has no unpleasant taste. It’s scarcely noticeable even on the first smoke. There was none of the roughness typical of a pipe that hasn’t been broken in.

I have since received two other RQ pipes and I have another on the way. I have many other pipes but my interest in smoking them is seriously waning. I have searched for comparisons or metaphors to this experience and can find none. I can simply say that these pipes have increased my pleasure in our hobby. They are beautifully crafted, exact, and well thought out. The draw is incredible and they somehow seem to allow the flavor of the tobacco to come through with more clarity than I have experienced in any other pipe. I would rather have a hand full of these pipes than the 30 or so other pipes I own.


In addition, let me add that Ryan is a pleasure to work with. His passion for making pipes is evident in every conversation as is his drive to push his artistry further. While it may be true that I am afflicted with the acquisition of pipes encountering Ryan and his work has brought my “illness” to a new level of enjoyment.

Does a two hundred dollar pipe smoke better than a less expensive one? I have certainly found my answer. [/FONT][/SIZE]

The following link leads to my collection. They can of course be seen on Ryans site as well.

http://s729.photobucket.com/albums/w...current=RQ.jpg

[plexiprs]

Glad your are happy with your new acquisition. Just remember, just because it cost more doesn't mean it always is worth more ...... I've pipes from all ends of the spectrum of cost. Once one identifies where quality can be found, one can be assured of nearly always getting a return on investment.

[Sigmund_]

That is indeed true. The real answer to the question is "It depends on who made it". These are truly joyous pipes to own and smoke.

[MrMusicMan1]

Very interesting post. Like most things, the little details make the difference. I've basically quit smoking my pipe out of frustration with it going out, maybe I'll try again soon. Thanks for the post.

[Mad Hatter]

Personally I think airway diameter is as important as any other aspect of a pipe's drilling and I'll only buy pipes I feel can be opened up if needed (which most do), ie - the stem diameter or width allows for redrilling or flaring near the mouthpiece........ petite stems and saddle bits are always a problem. I'll only splurge on a nice pipe if its something special or a really good deal.

[sounds7]

Some of my best smoking pipes were far less expensive than many more expensive ones in my collection. But on the whole, you get what you pay for (with some exceptions.)

[AcworthAl]

The most I have paid for a pipe is $160.00, but I have several in the $85.00-$100.00 range. The more you pay the prettier the pipe. Always better smoking, I am not sure. I have a $65.00 clay pipe that is probably the purest smoker I have. I have a butt ugly Dr. Grabow that smokes GREAT! While I do agree, you generally get what you pay for, one must examine, what am I paying for a beautiful pipe (truly a thing of joy) or a good smoke. I believe the quality of the smoke is determined by both the pipe one is using and the tobacco one uses in that pipe. You put Cherry Blend in a Dunhill you are going to have a crappie smoke. You load a Corn Cobb with a good Virginia Flake you will have a great smoke. But that Dunhill full of Cherry Blend is more impressive and smells better.

[Mister Moo]

How many bowls do you smoke every week, Philip?

[dmkerr]

Originally Posted by Sigmund_

The real answer to the question is "It depends on who made it".

...and did they happen to screw one up, are their priorities similar to yours, did the briar happen to throw them a curveball, etc etc.

I've found several examples of what I would consider poorly made pipes by world-class pipemakers. Conversely, I've found several examples of outstanding pieces (that were cheap!) by companies that produce machine made pipes. I can't stress enough that people should review the individual piece and not the maker. I've even seen pipes by Lars Ivarsson and Baldo Baldi that had tight draws. I also own a cheap Savinelli Baronet that is as well made a pipe as I've ever seen, and smokes accordingly.

[dmkerr]

Originally Posted by plexiprs

Glad your are happy with your new acquisition. Just remember, just because it cost more doesn't mean it always is worth more ...... I've pipes from all ends of the spectrum of cost. Once one identifies where quality can be found, one can be assured of nearly always getting a return on investment.

Yes, indeed. Well said.