Re: When is a Pipe "Broken In?"

Broken in...hmmm, I think it means when a pipe is finally smoking
great. Buy a pipe and there's a time element to getting it 'broken in'.
I think its a combination of factors, some of which you mention. Building a decent cake is a primary factor, having the briar absorb tobacco oils and moisture and going through many heat cycles is another.
And oddly, finding a particular blend or type of tobacco that burns best
in the pipe is an element of being 'broken in'. Lastly, there's a bond
formed with individual pipes that counts too. There are pipes I turn to in the evening, some I carry during the day, some when I want a long lingering smoke, and others for quick smokes. Broken in contains elements of all of this in getting the maximum enjoyment from a pipe, and that simply takes time. But isn't that what pipe smoking is all about?

bill


Warren F wrote:
Most of us prefer to smoke a "broken in" pipe. But, what does that
mean to you? When is your pipe "broken in?" Does it simply mean that
some cake has formed? Or that the bad flavor from new bowl coatings
has vanished? Or are there other factors you consider that make a pipe
"broken in?"

I've been a pipe smoker for about 7 years. Up until recently I thought
a pipe was broken in when there was some cake forming, and I could
smoke the pipe without too much worry of unduly charring the bowl.
Now, I think I am realizing there is more to breaking in a pipe.
There's something about having briar that has aged and received some
additional curing from the heat of smoking. But, I'm having a hard
time putting my finger on what the necessary "element" is in
considering a pipe to be broken in.

What are your thoughts?

.

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