Just thought you guys would appreciate this. Let me know what you guys think, I also did a bit of work on my site, D.M. | Fine Smoking Pipes You can also find additional photos of this pipe there if you want to see more.
The screen is totally replaceable, It sits in a groove that is cut into the inside of the bowl. It fits the standard screen size, so that you don't have to even cut the screen to fit. It's very easy to replace. Functionality is a big concern of mine... haha. The reason for this groove, to hold the screen, is that, it looks better, and also it allows there to be an air pocket under the screen, this lets air evenly flow over the entire surface of the screen. In a regular glass pipe, you get air flow concentrated in the middle of the bowl, making for uneven burning.
Yep, they are made from O1 tool steel, hardened and tempered. The tempering process is what gives it that rainbow color. I used a small anvil and hammer, with propane forge, to rough out the shape, then used micro files to refine it. Lining up and drilling the various holes for the hinge assembly, so that the bowl lid fits flush and snug, was a bit of a challenge, haha. I would say that the hinge alone took around 15 hours. Also, here is another full shot,
Definitely an OLD design that' around a new life! here's a real old one: http://www.dagoodstuff.com/shopping/product_details.php?id=416
How much does one of these pipes usually run? If it's not too expensive I would definitely pick one up!
Here is my current price list for the pipes on my site, Clouded Nautilis - $350 Fire and Stone - $200 Flamingo - $125 Purple Toad - $125 Old and Wise - $350 Blue Cobra - $350
