REVIEW of new Pipe (long)
Donald Gifford
REVIEW:
I recently purchased a “Bent Rhodesian” from Invicta Briars.
(www.invictabriars.com).
Up front, I am a customer, collector, pipe smoker, crotchety old Jarhead
and in no way associated with this company other than as a new customer.
I am a member of NASPC, Smokers Forums, ASP, and a former TUCOPS member
(RIP Tom Dunn).
Using my Pipe Rating methodology, I review each pipe I purchase. There
are objective and subjective rating areas.
Objectively, this pipe rates “Excellent” with a score of 42 (max 50-55)
Subjectively, this pipe rates “Good” with a score of 19 (max 25-30)
Overall, this pipe rates a solid “Excellent” with a combined total of 61
My smoking points (15 maximum) are not included in the above rating, but
this pipe rates a maximum 15 points and is an OUTSTANDING smoker.
The Good: This is a well engineered pipe, with an outstanding fit and
finish. It is a modern representative of the Bent Bulldog shape, without
bowl rings. It is well balanced, clenches well, holds well, and has a
classic saddle bit.
The pipe is advertised as a Bent Rhodesian and is in their “Classic
Shapes” line. The naming of this shape has, and will always be a matter
of discussion amongst pipers.
The Bad: None
The Noticed: There is a small flaw on the left side of the shank. I
have seen larger flaws on High end pipes, and artisan pipes. This flaw,
in no way affects the smoking of the pipe and is but a bit of
character. The button is the tiniest bit too large for me, but is
perfect in regards to the pipe (my mouth/teeth are messed up right now).
It needs no adjustment.
The Smoking: I expected the first bowl to be rough (hey, it IS a new
pipe), but this did NOT occur. There is was no bowl coating on this
gal. The first bowl was smooth, sweet and to the bottom. I tend to
abuse my pipes during break in to get that initial cake moving. This gal
stood up and screamed SMOKE ME!, so smoke her I did and she was
wonderful, cool, dry and smooth. This is a direct result of the high
quality briar and excellent engineering.
The Customer Service Experience: I am a demanding individual (hellooo....
former enlisted Marine) and am not forgiving on customer service.
Peter's customer service is OUTSTANDING. He worked with me, answered my
questions, corresponded with me, and then, because I could not decide,
sent me two pipes to choose from. All for a purchase from their standard
“Classic Shapes” catalog. We are talking Rock Star Service for a
purchase that was not from their top line. I ended up purchasing both
pipes.
The Value: Based on the above, all things combined, this pipe is a “buy
'em up” value. I highly recommend this maker, his work, and will be a
returning customer.
--
"It's OK, my cardiologist smokes a pipe". Once a Marine, Always a Marine
Paul Z
wrote:
Thanks for the review Don.
Paul Z