Newbie at BAF

Hi All,
Posted a longer intro in the new inmates section but thought I's drop a note here. I'm posted at Bagram Air Field in Afghanistan for a few months. There is a thriving cigar culture here but I can't seem to enjoy them so I ordered a pipe "starter kit" (http://www.cupojoes.com/cgi-bin/spgm...KW&item=pmag59) . Looks like there are a few threads on starter tobacco but thought I'd wait until I at least start on the sampler pack that comes with the set. After reading more, I'm starting to think I should have gone for a better quality pipe but we'll see how it works out. Looking forward to learning more.
Mark

[Zanaspus]

A basket pipe is generally fine to start with. What I would advise is a couple of cobs for rotation and more open smoking. As far as starter tobaccos? Dunhill EMP and Escudo are famous for a reason. Also, don't discount Prince Albert and Carter Hall. There was a time in the beginning that I thought these were "ghetto" tobaccos, but they're really excellent to start with and occasionally smoke forever. Plus, they won't dessicate in the desert. Enjoy your journey!

Oh, and Thank you for your service!!!

[jkstewart1]

Welcome, Mark! I too thank you for your service to our country and people around the world who simply want a safe place to raise their family and provide for them.
I started getting into pipes (from cigars) because of the seemingly endless choices in tobacco styles. There's always something different to smoke if I'm not having luck finding what I enjoy right away - so give it some time. Be patient and enjoy practicing filling, lighting, tamping, and of course smoking your pipe!