Pipe filters

[Robster]

I'm sure this has been asked a few times but I've decided one day, when i get another pipe, it would really benefit from a filter.

My current one leaves me with a black tongue, depending on the blend and if like to see what the fillers are like.

I've had my eye on falcon pipes for a bit now and I see others out there.

How long do filters last? Are they just a one use only thing? If so they are VERY expensive here in Australia.

Anything else I should be considering?

Is one system markedly different from another?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much,

Rob

 

[hawgsquatch]

I use medico filters in my cobs and DR Grabow filters in my Grabow briars. They are almost free here, but I usually don't bother to change them until they affect the draw. I use them to sop up excessive moisture, and avoid getting flakes in my mouth.

 

[the_edski]

Rob, filters are like DE blades, you can use them only once if you like, but I recommend to not use them for more than 3-4 bowls.

The Medico and Grabow filters are pretty much the same. Not sure what other paper filters there are, but they are probably similar.

The only different ones I know of are Savinelli balsa wood filters. But if regular filters are expensive by you, these would be probably be astronomical.

 

[john parker]

Robster, I am just a new pipe smoker myself, but in my reading on various forums I have never heard of pipe tobacco leaving anyone's tongue black. Guess I would ask is if you are sure that that is what is doing it? Only thing I can think of that ever left my tongue black was red wine.

 

[allawd]

As far as how long they last. A filter is soaking up moisture along with tar and other smoke by products. One bowl will leave a little Savinelli 6mm balsa triangle soaked. If you pull it out and let it dry you could use it a few times, but I find it is not working by the third bowl.

There are 9mm meerschaum filters that people seem to get a lot of use from. Also, check out Vauen. Germans seem to like filters in their pipes and theirs look more advanced than the paper Medicos or balsa Savinelli.

I don't use filters anymore.

 

[Commander Quan]

A short section of a pipe cleaner folded in half can also be used as a filter.

 

[Robster]

A short section of a pipe cleaner folded in half can also be used as a filter.

Now we're talking

I do admire practical yet creative solutions.

Filters huh. Who'd have thought it would be so simple... yet complex

Having said that, I'm your classic lazy consumer from way back and do love an easy solution. Mind you, a folded cleaner isn't going to stretch my mechanical skills too far.

Thanks to all for your advice, there's no doubt I'll try some commercial filters as well as some folded cleaners.

I love the pipe world.

Just have to get a pipe that takes filters now.

 

[johna2231]

I haven't been using filters on my MM corn cobbs but am getting tired of sucking in tobacco flakes. I might give 'em a try. Also like CQ's simple, yet effective solution.

John

 

[Hirsute]

I've used 6mm Medicos and Savinelli balsas, and 9mm Savinelli balsas, Vauen Dr Perls, and Adsorbas. For my money, the Savinellis and Vauens are excellent. Not sure of their availability in Oz, but they're not too expensive in the states, and do make for a dryer smoke. Some people use them a few times; I change them each time I smoke.

 

[Robster]

Just chiming in after finally getting a cob that takes Filters. I'm throwing paper medico Filters in and I love them. Getting two to three nights put of them (1-3 bowls). I went further and ended up with a mouth full of liquid. Disgusting.

Ordering from america they're cheap and next order I'll get maybe 30 or so boxes so I'm set and postage is absorbed a bit with the large order.

Thanks everyone for the advice. It was as you all said.

 

[AD9DX]

I have used cut pipe cleaners in my falcon before but prefer to just wipe out the bowl when I sense moisture. YMMV I hardly ever smoke aromatics.

 

[Whiskey Badger]

Has anyone ever tried the Brigham Maple Inserts?

I don't use filters. I've just seen them on SP and heard a little chatter on their performance.

 

[the_edski]

Has anyone ever tried the Brigham Maple Inserts?

I don't use filters. I've just seen them on SP and heard a little chatter on their performance.

I think I've heard good things about them here, hopefully someone will chime in.

 

[oc_in_fw]

I think I've heard good things about them here, hopefully someone will chime in.

Uncle Jackie is a Brigham smoker and should be around soon.