Smoking pipe (non-tobacco)

A variety of metal pipes. From bottom up : a carbed pipe, a chamber pipe with cap, two stem pipes, a bong slider and an extra bowlhead and elbow.

Pipe

Although metal pipes are generally more associated with cannabis rather than tobacco, this affiliation may be a function of their ability to be easily stowed rather than their suitability for marijuana over tobacco. Metal smoker’s pipes are typically made from lamp parts. Since copper parts from the plumbing industry release toxic, if not horrific tasting fumes, the suitability of brass and thermally inert nickel has made them a favorite for smokers since their inception. Though steel has always been a common material, brass, anodized aluminum and nickel plated brass are the most commonly used metals now due to their ease of workability and popular usage in the lamp and lighting industry. The primary disadvantage of the typical metal pipe is that metal conducts heat, and therefore retention of heat can make them uncomfortably hot. The use of rubber, plastic, or other non conductive grips on the outside of the pipe and at one or more of the threaded junctures can alleviate this problem.

Metal bowls are often overlooked by tobacco smokers for several reasons. Foremost among them is the common misconception that metal bowls create an aftertaste. While it is true that raw brass may be a party to this effect, it is more likely that machining oils from unwashed parts, or the use of brass screens which are often treated with plastic, are the cause. The use of clean, thermally inert, nickel plated brass, and a stainless steel screen are the best ways to ensure that smoking from a metal bowl will leave the smoking experience unaffected. Metal pipes, unless fortified with gaskets, o-rings, or other pliable heat resistant devices, are generally incapable of being smoked as a traditional briar pipe; lessening their attractiveness to the smoker of moist, flavored tobacco blends. The advantages of a metal pipe however are not in dispute. The use of interchangeable parts for optimization is of particular utility to the regular smoker. Threaded metal bowls and lids for storage of unused smoking material make metal pipes ideal for travel. Chambered metal pipes are particularly popular as the chamber is a convenient way to store additional smoking material. In concert with the numerous advantages a metal pipe has over a briar, meerschaum, wood, glass, or clay pipe, and the most attractive aspects of the metal pipe in many users' minds, is that they are (for the most part) inexpensive and indestructible, cementing their position as a vital and permanent part of smoking culture. Although not recommended, an easy metal pipe can be made out of an empty soda can by partially denting the round side and poking holes in it. Smoking material is placed over the holes, ignited, and smoke is drawn through the can's mouthpiece. This kind of pipe is usually used out of desperation, when no other smoking apparatuses are available, as inhaling aluminum particles, aluminum fumes, or fumes from the can's coating can be detrimental to one's health.

See also

• Bong
• Gravity bong
• Hookah
• Bowl (smoking)
• Chalice (pipe)
• Sebsi