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If you learned German, you’re obviously aware that the term “Meerschaum” comes from Germany, but for those who don’t speak the language, it translates as “sea foam” and is a type of clay. A porous substance serves as a filter, absorbing toxic tobacco tars and nicotine, much like every other form of foam.

The real reason Meerschaum pipes (or “meers” for short) are so common is that Meerschaum differs from most other forms of clay in terms of structure. It doesn’t burn and gives you a “clean” smoking experience that you won’t find with other types of pipes.

Here’s why you may want to invest in a high-quality meerschaum pipe:

1. Neutral flavor. Meerschaum has a milder taste profile, rendering it a more “true” manifestation of tobacco blends;
2. Interesting style and finishes. The mineral composition of meerschaum helps craftsmen to carve it into more complicated, elaborate designs — motifs that would fracture the wood if attempted with a briar;
3. Natural patina. When a meer pipe is smoked, the pure white content steadily darkens over time, evolving from tan and auburn to darker red and orange hues, almost like a steady sunset. It’s a pleasurable method that physically represents the pipe smoker’s interaction with the pipe, as well as the amount of time spent with it and the number of bowls smoked;
4. Durable and lightweight at the same time. Since meerschaum pipes are lighter than briar pipes, those that choose wider tobacco chambers will find that a meerschaum pipe is lighter and more convenient to clench than a briar pipe with comparable lengths;

Pay attention to the fact all the pipes in this guide belong to one particular brand – Missouri Meerschaum. It is recognized for affordable prices, unprecedented quality and great design for the ultimate smoking experience of your life. Check these meerschaum pipes reviews, the comparison table and buying guide before getting your pipe online. 

Missouri Meerschaum Country Gentleman Tobacco Pipe – the best for the bent stem!

For any novice smoker or the discerning pipe enthusiast, Missouri Meerschaum provides a low-cost, long-lasting rustic tobacco pipe. It’s an outstanding gift for a husband or parent.

In the bowl of the pipe, there is a genuine hardwood insert. This good-sized bowl will last for 20-25 minutes.

Among bigger, filtered pipes, the Country Gentlemen Corn Cob Pipe features a bent stem shape. It has a wide, barrel-shaped bowl with a dark stain applied to the coating, giving it a distinct look.

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Missouri Meerschaum Legend Corn Cob Pipe – the best for beginners!

There are three bowl shapes to choose from: 5th Avenue, Rob Roy, and Flat. This model belongs to the first category.

As seen, each bowl form contains an amber-colored straight or bent bit. You can find any chipping on the top edge of the pipe due to the quality of the corn cobs. This is absolutely natural and would have little impact on how the pipe burns.

The smaller bowl size is suitable for when you need a fast rest, and the pipe’s decreased weight ensures you can clench it without tiring your jaw.

With a medium-sized bowl and a coating that brings it a soft yellow color, the Legend Corn Cob Pipe is the most common item in the brand’s series of mid-sized, screened pipes for this price.

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Missouri Meerschaum Ozark Mountain Pipe – the best for the hardwood bowl!

Since this tobacco pipe is constructed of low-mass fruitwood, it lies as soft as a feather in the mouth’s corner. The pipe is much more practical and it is less expensive than a tin of tobacco. This compact Ozark pipe is suitable for a week-long camping trip.

In the series of mid-sized pipes, the Ozark Mountain hardwood pipe has proven to be a common option. There are 2 options available. The Maple finished bowl has a circular form and a straight stem, while the Cherry finished bowl has a Rob Roy shape and a bent stem.

For a real hardwood pipe, the Ozark Mountain is a great deal. It is also good for quick smoke during a road trip.

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Missouri Meerschaum Pride Corn Cob Pipe – the best for the natural corn cob!

This is a decent choice whether you’re new to smoking pipes or only new to cobs. It does, however, take some break-in time.

The build quality seems to be outstanding, with no significant faults, the color seems to be a decent fit for the images, and it draws well and stays illuminated for a long time.

The MM Pride is a tiny cob that was left undone but is quite sweet. Consequently, it creates the dry, cold smoke that any pipe smoker wants.

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Meerschaum Mini Hand Finished Lattice Pipe – the best for the finish!

Every MM pipe is hand-finished and tested for design and quality accuracy. It is available in a few stem colors.

The mouthpiece is simple to extract from the bowl since it is constructed of silicone. The bowl is made of ceramic and is exquisitely detailed. The bowl is also very wide, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

You should predict a 15-30 minute smoke from the pipe, depending on the blend and the cadence.

This rather short-tasting pipe is not designed for lengthy pipe sessions.

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The Buyer’s Guide

Do you enjoy smoking? One of the best ways to smoke is with a Meerschaum pipe. These pipes are made from porous white clay and they have an amazing ability to cool down hot tobacco, which makes for a better-tasting smoke! In this blog post, we will discuss what kind of Meerschaum pipes are out there and how to choose the right one for your needs. We also have some tips on how to care for these beautiful pipes so that they last you a lifetime!

Meerschaum types

Two types of meerschaum are used to produce smoking pipes:

• Block meerschaum. A pipe made of block meerschaum was cut from a single block of meerschaum retrieved from the mines near Eskisehir, Turkey, in a conventional way. This style of meerschaum makes for extremely fine hand carving and produces the desired cold, even smoke;
• Pressed meerschaum. A pressed pipe is crafted by mixing shavings and other small pieces of meerschaum with glues and forcing them into a mold. This form of meerschaum is stronger than block, smokes hotter, doesn’t color as good, and any carving is clunky and uninteresting. The very best approach to guarantee a better experience is to make sure your pipe is made from block meerschaum;

Mouthpiece

Examine the mouthpiece closely before buying a meerschaum pipe. If it’s a strong yellow color, it’s most definitely a flimsy plastic mouthpiece that was used to save money by the maker. The best meerschaum pipe mouthpieces are constructed of Lucite, vulcanite, amber or even clay, and they look like they took some time to create. 

Probably more important than the material from which the stem is produced is how it binds to the bowl. If the stem is screwed directly into the meerschaum, the bond may deteriorate with time and eventually will break.

Size

Although some may claim that size does not matter when it comes to this sort of pipe, some experts claim the larger the bowl, the longer and more pleasing the smoke. A bigger pipe often feels better in the hands and is typically easier to vacuum. Looking for a pipe with a bowl with a width of at least 1/2 to 3/4 inches and a total length of 5 to 6 inches is the best suggestion.

Carvings

It’s understandable why many people purchase this sort of pipe for the carvings as well as anything else. However, don’t be too taken aback (in a positive way) by the carving (unless the pipe has historical value). Before placing too much attention on the carving, please ensure the pipe follows our other specifications. After all, you might only be staring at a well-crafted pressed meerschaum pipe.

Bowl depth

Bowl depth is crucial to remember since a shallow bowl with a thin wall would only make for a brief smoke and will heat up faster than a deep bowl with a thick wall. If the wrong bowl is picked, a ten-minute smoke will easily turn into a thirty-minute experience.

Shapes

Another important consideration when selecting a pipe is the design of the pipe. There are a couple of items to remember, such as when you can smoke the pipe and about how long each session will continue. If the pipe would be used mostly outside, a bent pipe will be preferable to a straight pipe for functional purposes.

Bent pipes cause smoke to be diverted away from the smoker’s face, reducing the chance of rogue embers being whipped straight at him. Many pipe smokers would have several pipes in their rotation, with one appropriate for each situation. As a beginner, you won’t have this choice, but picking the first pipe is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make.

Textures of meers

• Smooth. Some would be silky smooth to the touch and brushed to bring out the wood. The most popular colors are brown and red, accompanied by black, although there are several others;
• Rustic. The rustic finish is another common option. By etching a rough finish on the pipe’s surface, heat is spread unevenly in the pipe, keeping it colder on the side. A varnished pipe is often simpler to grip for certain individuals;
• Sandblast. Sandblasting is another procedure that has a similar result. Tobacco pipe makers may produce a rugged surface that resembles porous rock by using a high-pressure sand jet. The sandblast has the same advantages as a rusticated pipe;

Other tips for buyers:

• Never buy a meer made of pressed block;
• Check the weight of a pipe before buying – you don’t want a too big or small pipe;
• True meers won’t cost less than $50;
• There should be an insert in between the pipe’s body and the mouthpiece. Such pipes are more durable and easier to clean;

How to identify a fake Meerschaum pipe? 

Here is how you should check the origin of meerschaum pipes: 

• Moist a finger and run it over the interior of an unsmoked pipe bowl. High-quality meers absorb moisture easily. Pipes constructed of low-grade meerschaum or chips consume moisture slowly if do it at all;
• Dot the bottom of the pipe with a piece of silver jewelry. Most synthetic meerschaum will produce a pencil-like trace, but true block meerschaum will not be labeled. The glue used to tie the meerschaum powder together has silver leaves on it;
• Examine the color of a meerschaum pipe that has been used. If the oils from the combustion byproducts soak into the meerschaum clay, the color gradually changes. White pipes can transform into gold and brown colored pipes. Pipes cut from strong meerschaum can alter color more evenly than pipes made of synthetic pressed meerschaum, which appear to develop irregular coloring of visible layers or unshaded white veins;
• Examine the meerschaum pipe’s stem and mouthpiece. If the stem is cherry wood and the mouthpiece is horn, the pipe was likely crafted from pressed meerschaum instead of being carved from a single strong piece like a true meerschaum pipe;
• Look at the new pipe’s color. A beeswax layer on real meerschaum pipes absorbs tobacco tar and grease, which is then evil to the top. The color of a meerschaum pipe changes from creamy white to a deep golden brown or cherry with time;
• Examine the pipe’s bowl for some “burned out” areas. Genuine meerschaum won’t burn easily;

FAQ

What should I look for in a meerschaum pipe?

There are a few things to consider when choosing the best meerschaum pipe for you. The first and most important consideration is always the quality of craftsmanship, especially in regards to the fit between stem and shank. When I take on an order, my only goal is customer satisfaction so if there’s anything that seems amiss with your pipe when it arrives, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. The next thing to consider is the size of your pipe, which will affect how it smokes. Generally speaking, a larger bowl allows for more smoke and longer sessions without requiring as frequent a light as you would experience with smaller bowls. You also want to make sure there are no air-holes in or around the stem when it arrives at your door – this is a common issue with cheaper pipes and it makes smoking the pipe more difficult. Another thing to look out for when selecting your new meerschaum pipe is the hardness of corn cobs used as mouthpieces to hold their shape after prolonged use – softer corncob means easier-to-smoke, but also quicker degradation over time.

Finally, the most important factor to consider when choosing your meerschaum pipe is the price. Because I use high-quality materials and take my time with each order, my pipes are not the cheapest on the market – but they are worth every penny.

How can you tell if a meerschaum pipe is real?

There are a few ways to tell if a meerschaum pipe is real. One way is to check the bowl of the pipe. If it is white, then it is likely made from meerschaum. Another way to check is to feel the weight of the pipe. Meerschaum pipes are typically lighter than other pipes. Finally, you can check the stamp on the pipe. If it says “meerschaum,” then it is likely made from meerschaum.

If you are looking for a high-quality meerschaum pipe, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the bowl is large enough for your smoking needs. Second, make sure the pipe is comfortable to hold and easy to smoke. Finally, look for rich color with beautiful patterns in the bowl of the pipe.

When you are looking at meerschaum pipes online or in stores, keep these tips in mind so that you can find your perfect pipe!

How much does a meerschaum pipe cost?

The cost of a meerschaum pipe can vary depending on the size and quality of the pipe. However, on average, meerschaum pipes cost around $50-$60.

When it comes to the cost of a meerschaum pipe, you have two main factors:

• Size: The larger the pipe is, generally, the more expensive. This is because there’s more material and labor involved in making a large-sized pipe compared to a smaller one. Larger pipes are also harder to make as they require greater precision and are more prone to defects.
• Quality: The better the quality of the meerschaum, the higher the price will be. Meerschaum is a natural mineral and therefore each pipe is unique. Some pipes have a more uniform coloration while others have intricate patterns and swirls. The best meerschaums are from the highest quality materials and are created by master carvers. These pipes can cost over $1000.

The price of a meerschaum pipe is generally not based on how long it will last or even its durability, but instead, it’s mainly about aesthetics as well as craftsmanship. The most expensive and best-looking meerschaums tend to be the most valuable.

What is meerschaum made from?

Meerschaum is a mineral, which was formed millions of years ago by the evaporation of seawater. It has properties similar to clay and can be molded into various objects. Meerschaums were used for pipe making as early as in 17th century. They are normally white or cream-colored but sometimes you may find some meerschaums in other colors. The color depends on which elements were present at the moment of the mineral’s formation.

The porous structure of the meerschaum allows it to absorb moisture and filter tobacco smoke. This makes meerschaum a perfect material for pipes. Meerschaums don’t need much care but you should avoid exposing them to sudden changes in temperature or humidity.

There are many different types of meerschaum pipes. You can find them in different shapes, colors and even decorated with precious stones or gold.

How often can you smoke a meerschaum pipe?

Meerschaum pipes are a great way to enjoy your favorite tobacco blends. They are also a great way to smoke cigars. Meerschaum is a natural mineral that is found in certain parts of the world. It is white and porous, which makes it an ideal material for smoking pipes and cigars. When you smoke a meerschaum pipe, the tobacco smoke is absorbed into the natural material of the meerschaum. The more you smoke it, your pipe will turn darker and darker from all of the oils that are in a smoker’s mouth.

Many people ask how often they can smoke their meerschaum pipe. The answer is that you can smoke it as often as you like. However, it is a good idea to let the pipe cool down between smokes. This will help to preserve the natural mineral, and it will also make your pipe last longer.

One of the best things about meerschaum pipes is that they are very durable. They can be dropped and knocked around, and they will not break as easily as other types of a smoking pipe. The only thing to worry about with a meerschaum pipe is knocking the gold band off of it or breaking the stem- both problems which can be avoided if you take your time and treat the pipe with respect.

Meerschaum pipes have been around since long before anyone can remember. They were used by many different cultures in various parts of the world, including Asia, Europe, Africa, pipes North America. Today there are still meerschaum miners who extract blocks of pure white material from underground. This meerschaum is used to make smoking pipes and other ornate items.

Are meerschaum pipes fragile?

No, meerschaum pipes are not fragile. They are very sturdy and can last for many years with proper care. They are a great option for smokers who are looking for a pipe that is both durable and affordable.

Do meerschaum pipes get hot?

The meerschaum pipe is a type of tobacco pipe that is made from the mineral meerschaum. Meerschaum pipes are not only beautiful, but they are also cool to smoke. This is because meerschaum absorbs the heat from the tobacco, which prevents the pipe from getting hot. Meerschaum pipes are so cool that they can be smoked even after being left in a hot car.

Meerschaum is a very porous mineral, which means that it absorbs the flavors and aromas of tobacco. This gives meerschaum pipes a unique flavor that cannot be found in other types of pipes. Meerschaum is also very soft and easy to carve, which allows pipe makers to create beautiful designs on the pipes.

Meerschaum is also a good material for making smoking accessories such as meerschaum cigarette holders, lighters, and ashtrays. These products are prized by collectors because they can be made in rare colors such as red or purple (also called “amethystine”).

Many different designs can be made from meerschaum, such as bulldog and apple shapes. Meerschaum pipes also come in various sizes, which range from large to small. The most popular size is the medium-sized pipe with a diameter of about one inch (25mm).

Meerschaum pipes and other meerschaum products are rare because they must be dug out of the ground. Meerschaums are found in parts of Turkey, Iran (called “Lebanon” there), and the former Yugoslavia. However, most meerschaums come from Eskisehir, a city in central Turkey.

As of now, it is difficult to get high-quality meerschaum in the United States. This is because most imported meerschaums are low quality and have been dyed with artificial colors or filled with plastic particles. However, there are still some good meerschaum products available on the market today.

There are many benefits to using a meerschaum pipe. First of all, they are cheaper than briar pipes because the raw material is so inexpensive; however, they still smoke well and last for years if properly taken care of. Meerschaums also look great, and they come in many shapes that are not possible to make with other types of material.

How long will a meerschaum pipe last?

A meerschaum pipe, if properly cared for and maintained, can last a lifetime. Some pipes are even handed down to one’s children or grandchildren as heirlooms. Meerschaums that have been in existence since the mid-19th century still exist today! Similar but more modern materials such as briarwood may not last as long.

The reason meerschaum pipes last so long is because the mineral absorbs moisture and prevents it from entering the briarwood, which can cause rot over time. Meerschaums are also less porous than other materials, meaning that they don’t absorb flavors or aromas as easily. This makes them a popular choice for smokers.

How do you smoke a new meerschaum pipe?

If a new meerschaum pipe arrives, the first thing you have to do is break it in. This process can be done by smoking with coals or heating some water and letting it cool down while keeping your pipe away from the heat source (in other words don’t leave your pipe on top of hot water). You do not want to use a flame directly on the meerschaum as it could damage the pipe.

Once your pipe is broken in, you will want to clean it after each smoke. You can do this by using a damp cloth and wiping out the bowl and stem of the pipe. Be sure not to get water inside the chamber or down the stem.

Finally, you will want to store your pipe in a safe place where it will not be damaged. A meerschaum pouch is a perfect way to protect your pipe while it’s not being smoked.

How do you clean a meerschaum pipe?

There are two ways of cleaning a meerschaum pipe. One is the hot water method, and the other one is steam cleaning (using pressurized steam). The first process uses lukewarm water and mild soap to clean it. Use some mineral spirits on a soft cloth for removing any residue from your pipe if needed after using this method.

The second process, steam cleaning, is the best way to get your pipe clean. Pour some water into the bowl and put the stem in place. Put the pipe on low heat on your stovetop until the water starts boiling. Take it off of the heat and let it sit for a minute or two. This will ensure that it is warm enough to steam but not too hot.

Once the pipe has steamed, take a soft cloth and grip the shank of your meerschaum firmly in one hand while you wipe down any grime or residue on the outside with your other hand. Do this until all surfaces are clean and dry thoroughly before you put your pipe back away.

If you need to speed up the process of getting a dirty meerschaum cleaner, use an ultrasonic cleaner instead. Just make sure that it is not too hot and add some water when needed to keep it cool enough for the pipe while cleaning out any residue or buildup inside.

Can you touch a meerschaum pipe?

Meerschaum pipes have a reputation for being fragile and delicate. They are not as durable or sturdy as briar, but they certainly can take some abuse without breaking apart at the seams. It is possible to accidentally drop your meerschaum pipe on the ground or onto a hard surface, which could break it into several pieces if it is not made from high-quality materials. For the most part, meerschaum pipes are meant to be handled with care and should only be touched when it is necessary.

If you do need to handle your meerschaum pipe, make sure that you are gentle and use caution. avoid touching the bowl or stem of the pipe with your hands, as this will cause the oils and dirt on your skin to transfer to the meerschaum. Instead, use a soft cloth or cotton gloves when handling your pipe. This will help keep it clean and free from any unwanted debris.

How do I darken the meerschaum pipe?

Some people like to darken their meerschaum pipes with a special solution made from equal parts of vinegar and water. Soak a soft cloth in the solution, then rub it over the pipe until it is evenly darkened.

Another way to darken meerschaum pipes is to use a pencil eraser. Rub the eraser over the pipe until it is darkened to your liking. Be careful not to rub too hard, or you might damage the surface of the pipe.

Finally, some people like to use tobacco juice to darken their meerschaum pipes. Use a pipe cleaner to hold the juice inside as you rub it over your meerschaum.

If none of these methods work on your particular pipe, try using some very fine steel wool and rubbing in small circles until the surface is darkened to your liking. Make sure that you do not use too much pressure or the bowl of the pipe could crack. The steel wool should only be used to darken parts of your meerschaum and not for polishing it in general.

Video Tutorial: Meerschaum talk

Final thoughts

A good meerschaum pipe will offer you an unrivaled smoking experience. However, not all meers are made equal, much as not all other items in life. Hopefully, this guide can be helpful when you buy a Missouri meerschaum pipe. Always search for genuine pipes that may serve you for many years. 

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