Briars: A Soldier's Story

 

(smokingpipes.com) ... Why have pipes become so popular with those who serve in the field over (say) a cigar? Some of the reasons we have seen cited include their high degree of portability, when broken down and secured in the side pocket of BDU pants, as well as the continuing serviceability of a briar, compared to a stogie, after a few dozen body contacts with the hard desert. Time is still another factor. The availability of “admin” time in the field can be tough to predict and, often, even tougher to accurately gauge its length (nothing says “going tactical” quite like an unanticipated contact on a perimeter). With a pipe, time allowing, a troop can enjoy a long smoke. Should their temporary downtime be suddenly interrupted, a few taps of the bowl against a palm, followed by a quick stow, is far less onerous than having to stub out and abandon a freshly lit $12 cigar. Continued