Can I use filters in any pipe? Or does it require a specific kind of pipe?
In order to use pipe filters of any kind (balsa, charcoal, paper, etc.), the pipe must be designed specifically to accept filters. This means the pipe must have a "filter chamber" bored into the airway. This is nothing more than an enlarged area of the shank or stem were a filter can be placed during the smoke. Standard bore pipes do not have such a chamber and cannot accommodate filters.
Also, different companies and craftsmen design their pipes to accept filters of different sizes. The most common filter diameters are 6mm and 9mm. The lengths of filters varies depending on the type of filter. Many pipes that have filter chambers that will accommodate filters from various companies. For example, Savinelli pipes are designed to use Savinelli's famous "Balsa System" filters, but the pipes will also accept Dr. Grabow brand paper filters. (The balsa system is far superior, in my opinion, but in a pinch it's good to have options.)
Most online pipe shops clearly indicate whether or not specific pipes use filters. The vast majority of pipes sold in the United States are non-filtered pipes. So as a general rule, if a listing doesn't specifically say the pipe uses filters, it probably doesn't. However, in European countries, filter pipes are far more popular and even required by law in some countries.
No comments:
Post a Comment