How to Choose Your First Tobacco Pipe: A Beginner’s Guide

So, you’re ready to buy your first tobacco pipe—but where do you start? With so many shapes, materials, and styles out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through the essentials so you can confidently choose a pipe that fits your budget, your hand, and your lifestyle.

1. Start Simple

If you're just starting out, I highly recommend getting a brand new Missouri Meerschaum corncob pipe. You can buy them from their website or even on Amazon. They're cheap (under $20) and perfect for learning the basics.

If you really want to start with a briar pipe, a restored estate pipe from a trusted source (like Woodman Loft) can be a great choice. Expect to spend around $30–$75 for a quality starter. Brand new briar pipes (entry level) will typically run anywhere from $75 to $150.

2. Choose the Right Material

Briar is the gold standard for a reason—it’s heat-resistant, durable, and improves with use. Other options include:

• Corncob – Inexpensive, cool-smoking, and great for learning
• Meerschaum – Clean flavor and no break-in period, but more fragile
• Clay – Old-school and pure tasting, but heats up fast and can break easily

Best choice for beginners? Briar or corncob.

3. Pick a Comfortable Shape

Pipe shapes affect both comfort and smoking characteristics. Common beginner-friendly shapes include:

• Straight Billiard – Classic, well-balanced
• Apple or Author – Rounded bowls that feel great in the hand
• Bent shapes – Curve downward, taking weight off your teeth if you clench

A good rule: If it feels awkward in your hand or mouth, skip it. I recommend starting with a straight pipe because they tend to be less finicky in terms of moisture management. Your mileage may vary. Some people love the look of a bent pipe so much that they have to start with one. I get it.

4. Filter or No Filter?

Some pipes come with 6mm or 9mm filters to reduce moisture issues. While not essential, they can help beginners ease into the hobby.

Filters are more widely used among European pipe smokers. Americans on average tend to dislike filters and simply yank them (no pun intended) out of all their pipes. I fall into that category myself.

There's nothing wrong with a filter—but it's just another thing to think about. If you do use filters, make sure you replace them frequently. Leaving a nasty old filter in a pipe is not recommended.

Quite a few of the old pipes I restore have a crusty old filter petrified in place when I get them. Gross.

5. Avoid Gimmicks

Pipes with metal inserts, weird shapes, or “cooling systems” usually complicate things more than they help. Stick to a simple, well-made pipe that lets you focus on the process—not the gadgetry.

6. Ask Questions Before You Buy

Whether you're buying in person or online, don’t be shy about asking:

• Is it made from genuine briar?
• Has it been properly drilled (air hole alignment matters)?
• Is the pipe ready to smoke, or does it need cleaning?
• Has it been repaired or need any repairs?

If you’re shopping here at Woodman Loft, feel free to get in touch. I’d be happy to help you choose your first pipe.

7. Start With One—Then Explore

You don’t need a bunch of pipes to get started. One good one is enough. Figure out the basics of packing, lighting, sipping, and maintaining your pipe.

Once you've smoked it a dozen times or so, you’ll know if pipes are for you—and what kind of pipe you might like next. Maybe a bent or a straight model? Maybe a slightly smaller pipe or one to dedicate to heavy English blends. Soon you'll be on your second pipe, and your third, and…

Welcome to the rabbit hole.

Final Thoughts

A good pipe isn’t just a tool—it’s a companion. Whether you’re smoking on the porch after a long day or quietly reflecting in the workshop, your first pipe should feel like something made to last.

Browse our current selection of handmade and restored pipes here at Woodman Loft, and if you’re stuck, just drop me a line. I’ll help you find something worth lighting up.