JS Pipes

Since the beginning of pipe smoking, it seems that every pipe smoker has had an idea about how to make a better smoking pipe.  I must count myself as one of those smokers.

However, if you look at pipes throughout the years, the ones that have survived are the basic shapes with tried and true production techniques.  That is why I stay with the basics, adding a few ideas of my own.

I first start with the best briar I can find. I make sure that the briar is well aged, dry, and that the grain is tight and distinctive. Only time will do a briar justice.

Virtually every briar comes with some imperfection.  Most pipe makers will drill and fill even a small sand speck.  This is very difficult to see on a new pipe.  Only after smoking the pipe for a while will you be able to see the imperfections.  Unfortunately, then it’s too late, since you already own the pipe.  I prefer to leave the small sand specks.  As the pipe darkens, the specks become less apparent and naturally blend with the pipe.  That is why the JS Gold series are without fills.

Nothing is more disappointing than purchasing a beautiful, high-gloss pipe, only to discover that the finish comes off in chunks after smoking for a while.  I only use a hand buffed, carnuba wax finish for my pipes.  The wax colors beautifully while you smoke and it does not seal the briar like a heavy, high-gloss finish would.

For the finishing touch I use a carbonizing technique that I developed on my own.  I never could understand why some pipe makers would make a beautiful pipe and then seal the briar from the tobacco with an impervious bowl-coating. After much experimenting, I developed my own carbon coating.  It is virtually transparent, letting you enjoy the fine briar you paid for.  This technique works, the feedback I get from my customers is that my pipes consistently rank among their best smokers.  Many now own several of the JS series.

Because I put great time and care into each and every one of my pipes, availability is limited.