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Halloween's right around the corner, and Shane's back in the Inquisitor's Chair for this month's Mystery Review. Did we guess our treat in the blind test? Or did he stump us all with a bag of tricks? Watch the video above to find out. ... Read More

The title of this essay may be somewhat misleading, as it is not about flat-bottomed burls, but about tamping for flat-bottomed tobacco chambers. The pun on the Queen song was just too irresistible. ... Read More

In this episode of All Pipes Considered, Kaz and Chip discuss the work of American carver Larry Roush, including his background and pipemaking beginnings, muscular shaping style, stem materials, unique silverwork, and so much more. ... Read More

In this episode of Tasting Notes, Shane offers five spectacular recommendations for your autumn rotation — all perfect for cooler weather. Here's the shortlist, but make sure to check out the video above for detailed reviews of each blend. ... Read More

Artists tend to be a commonly misunderstood bunch. By and large, they keep odd hours, enjoy solitude, and rigorously follow their hearts — all attributes which can set them apart from the vast majority of society. For visual artist James Brown — also a Sommelier, adventure traveler, and Range Rover enthusiast — his heart took him to the mountains of Nicaragua. ... Read More

In this episode of All Pipes Considered, Shane and I discuss the great Kurt Balleby, covering everything from his introduction into pipemaking and various influences to his nuanced and meticulous approach to the craft. Learn more about Balleby and his incredible work today. ... Read More

In this episode of Briar to Binder, Shane and Kaz tackle RoMa Craft's Intemperance BAXXI A.W.S. IV Lonsdale. Watch the video above for a complete review of the stick, as well as a really interesting comparison between it and some favorite pipe tobaccos out there. ... Read More

Chad Terpstra held a special screening of his pipesmoking documentary Father the Flame at the 2017 Chicagoland Pipe Show. But many of you have wondered what's going on with this project? When will it be released? ... Read More

Are you a pipe smoker looking to get into the diverse and wild world of cigars? Don't miss this first episode in our brand new video series Briar to Binder, where Shane & Kaz discuss Crowned Heads cigars. ... Read More

Except for the beginning of pipe sandblasting more than 100 years ago, when curing techniques, softer Algerian briar (if that story is not a fable) and early, unsophisticated procedures launched deeply craggy sandblasts, sandblasted pipes have been mainly low profile in texture. Even today, in Denmark, the heart of artisan pipemaking ... Read More