Ask some folks if they'd ever consider buying second-hand tobacco pipes and they're bound to look at you like you have three heads. "A used pipe? Are you kidding?" is one of the most common responses. This resistance to purchasing a secondhand pipe often comes down to the fact that a total stranger has been puffing on that pipe for who knows how long.

But think about it: you go into restaurants all the time and eat from the silverware they present you. We promise you the restaurant did not purchase that silverware just for you. Hundreds of people have probably had that fork in their mouths before you. And hundreds more will have it in their mouths after you. Nobody complains. Nobody leaves when presented with “used” silverware.

You still have a right to refuse a used pipe if you want, but the whole “I refuse to smoke a pipe someone has smoked before me" argument doesn't hold much water. With that out of the way let's look at some of the things you should consider before purchasing a secondhand pipe.

What to Look for in a Secondhand Tobacco Pipes

Secondhand pipes and "estate pipes" (used pipes with a pedigree), are actually pretty big business and attract interest from pipe lovers all over the world. It's not unusual for rare estate pipes in good condition to go for thousands of dollars. And if the pipe was owned by a historical figure, that price can be $50,000 or more.

For the purposes of this article, however, we're going to avoid historical pipes and focus mostly on everyday secondhand pipes that can be found at brick-and-mortar smoke shops or at a variety of online platforms, including websites like eBay.

Important considerations when purchasing such a pipe include:

Is there a ghost in the shell?

Pipes that have been broken in and used for a considerable amount of time may carry with them the ghost of a particular tobacco favored by the previous owner. In some cases, it will be easy to smoke through those ghosts, although you'll have to put up with the transition period. In other cases though that ghostly aroma may linger for an insufferable amount of time and undermine your enjoyment.

Why did the previous owner part ways with it?

This one is a stretch, we know because in some cases it can be almost impossible to determine why a person is willing to part with a particular pipe, especially if the pipe seems to be in good condition. But it doesn't hurt to ask. Who knows? If you're buying from an individual you might even get a straight answer.

Are there hidden flaws?

Speaking of virtually impossible... determining if there are flaws in used tobacco pipes being sold online can also be difficult if not impossible. Photos don't show the true condition of the pipe. Photos can easily be altered in Photoshop to hide problems, defects, or damage. So you need to take that into consideration before you pony up your hard-earned money for a pipe on eBay or some other online retail platform.

Is there excessive darkening around the bowl?

If the rim of the pipe is charred up with lots of darkening in and around the bowl it is often a sign of heat distress meaning whoever owned the pipe before regularly smoked it too hot. Burning tobacco is by nature a hot process, but it must be done in a controlled manner if you're to get the most from the tobacco and ensure the health of the pipe. Smoking too hot can cause fissures in the bottom of the bowl and permanently foul the smoking experience.

Are there cracks in the pipe?

Minor cracks can be dealt with but you still don't want to see them on your pipe. Cracks can be caused by excessive moisture or not enough cake built up inside the bowl. Being too aggressive when cleaning the pipe can also produce cracks in the bowl and stem. As we said, some cracks can be dealt with, usually by way of super glue, but cracks are not something you want to see in an estate pipe.

Do the shank and stem align properly?

If the stem and shank on a pipe are not properly aligned it can have a negative effect on airflow through the pipe which can negatively affect the quality of the burn. If the secondhand pipe you're interested in is in front of you, regard it carefully to determine if there is a misalignment between the shank and stem. If things don't match up the pipe may need to be restemmed. But if it's a particularly valuable estate pipe restemming may negatively impact its value.

Other Considerations Before Buying a Used Pipe

The first rule of art collecting is "Buy what you like". The same goes for purchasing secondhand tobacco pipes. Even if your intent is to fill a gap in your pipe collection, make sure the pipe you buy is one that appeals to you on a personal basis. If you buy a pipe you don't like just because you were led to believe it might someday accrue some incredible market value it's likely you'll end up selling it. So save yourself the long-term hassle and only buy what you like.

The second rule of collecting is “Spend what you can afford. No more, no less.” If you have your eyes on a particular pipe but you are concerned about the price don't default to picking up a less expensive pipe that reminds you of the other. This is a recipe for unhappiness because all the cheaper pipe will do is remind you every day of the pipe you really wanted. If a certain secondhand pipe is at the high end of your budget but still within your means, that is the pipe you should buy, not a cheap imitation.

Finally, if you've got your eyes on an estate pipe but it seems like it's been around the block one too many times that shouldn't necessarily be a deal breaker. Experienced restorers can salvage just about any pipe as long as it is still fundamentally sound. Now, if the secondhand pipe costs you $40 you may just want to clean it up yourself. But if you've shelled out serious money for an estate pipe consider letting a restorer work their magic on it.

Final Thoughts From The Paykoc Pipes Team

Secondhand tobacco pipes run the gamut from modestly priced models being sold by individuals who've lost interest in them to estate pipes that will cost real money and may even have some historical value. Regardless of which one you have your eye on, make sure you subject it to the list of considerations we provided above to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.

And for one of the widest selections of tobacco pipes, tobacco pipe accessories, and wholesale tobacco pipes you'll find anywhere check out the Paykoc Pipes online store.