[Mister Moo]

My opinions:

1. Get block, not pressed, meerschaum - it colors better. You will probably need to rely on the seller for this info.

2. The common meer is a half-bent carved with buccaneer face, lattice, dragon or something with claws and skulls and scales; the uncommon one is a classic pipe design, smooth and pristine. Find something uncommon.

3. They all have a delrin "push-pull" mortise and tenon - they come in two sizes (x millimeter) and the larger push-pull usually wears better than the small one.

4. Meers are usually wet smokers and they're usually drilled too small. Make things go your way by selecting a pipe that isn't too bent and will absolutely pass a standard pipe cleaner without a struggle.

5. The bigger they are the heavier they are.

6. Make sure the bit/button fits your bite.

7. Make sure it has a hardshell fitted case.

8. Inspect carefully for a low-center airhole in the bowl - good; hairline cracks in the clay - bad.

9. If you get a crappy one, yell "PULL!", toss the thing high over the stern rail and blast the crap out of it with some 6 1/2 shot.