Independent Pipe Maker

[el_mustango]

Hey all,

It’s been a while since I’ve been active on these forums so I hope everyone is doing well. Truth is, I haven’t really been smoking much these days (cigars or pipes). But, I recently discovered that my grandfather ran a local pipe shop - Vottis Pipe Shop in Amsterdam, NY. I inherited a piece of briarwood from him and I’d like to get it made into a usable pipe. I think it would be a nice tribute to him.

So my question is this: does anyone active on these forums make pipes or does anyone have any suggestions for independent pipe makers who might be willing to make a single pipe for me?

Thanks,
Dan

 

[el_mustango]

 

[Bostoneo]

Welcome home! Reaching out to one of the many of the independent pipemakers sounds like a stellar idea. Maybe theres a certain one whos styles you like, of course cutting into the briar you never know what flaws there may be of course.

 

[ak2000]

Assuming you're in the USA, I would think a pipemaker in the states would be the most economical. I would suggest reaching out to Mark Tinsky, Tim West, Dave Neeb, and Neal Monier to see if any would consider your project. Good luck

P.S. that looks like a hobby block, hopefully the Briar is quality all the way through.

 

[el_mustango]

Thanks for the suggestion. Neil’s pipes are amazing. I spoke with him and he’s going to make me a pipe. I’ll share photos once it’s done.

 

[el_mustango]

I just wanted to follow up. Thanks to those of you who offered suggestions on indie pipe makers. As I mentioned above, I spoke with Neil Monier, and he made me an absolutely fantastic pipe that has exceeded my expectations in every way. On top of that, Neil seems like a tremendous human being and was a delight to work with. I highly recommend him and his pipes.

With that out of the way, and without further ado, here is the pipe:

 

[Bostoneo]

very sharp! I'm happy this panned out for you

 

[ak2000]

Wow, that turned out fantastic!

 

[mitetak]

I just wanted to follow up. Thanks to those of you who offered suggestions on indie pipe makers. As I mentioned above, I spoke with Neil Monier, and he made me an absolutely fantastic pipe that has exceeded my expectations in every way. On top of that, Neil seems like a tremendous human being and was a delight to work with. I highly recommend him and his pipes.

With that out of the way, and without further ado, here is the pipe:

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gorgeous!