How to smoke a pipe

O.k., this is a simple exercise for all you cigarette smokers who have never tried pipe smoking, but would like to start. There are two ways people usually start:

1. Buy a pipe & tobacco and smoke it.

This is a great way to start, no hassles and very easy. Don't worry, you'll figure it out. However, the method has its drawbacks. The main one being that you may not like what you get. If you go to the drugstore, you may get some awful tobacco, if you go to the tobacco store, they may sell you more than you need or want. Still, it's not a bad way to start.

2. Research.

Read everything there is on pipes and pipe tobacco. This can be a very engrossing way to start a new hobby, but it can also be very confusing. There are a lot of opinions out there on the subject and when you are all through with the reading, you still don't have a pipe.

I propose a middle path. First, read the beginners guide at Pipedia, don't commit it to memory, just read it once. Now, go to the drugstore and buy yourself a pipe that looks good to you. Now, go to the Tobacco store, or order online, a can of Frog Morton: Across the Pond*. This is a good, mild tobacco, that isn't too expensive and should appeal to many (non menthol) cigarette smokers. While you're at the tobacco store, pick up a cheap pipe tool. Go home and reread the pipedia article and start smoking. That's it. For about $40 you'll know whether pipe smoking is for you or not. If it is, then you can invest in more expensive pipes and different types of tobaccos. Enjoy!

*If you want something that tastes very cigarettey, go for some Prince Albert.

Photo: Library of Congress