New Pipe

[physiognomy]

Originally Posted by LockOut

... I know you guys said you clean new pipes with ever clear. Is it safe to do with this pipe with the wood?

Run a wet (everclear or high % alcohol) cleaner through the stem (remove from pipe) before you smoke it, but other than that you are good to go. I use a dry cleaner after smoking & only use everclear once a month or so to keep my pipes fresh. Cleaning specifics really depend on how often you smoke a pipe. Hopefully others who have more experience with this type of pipe will chime in.

Originally Posted by LockOut

... Also I'm assuming these don't have to be smoked with the filter. I think i remember you guys saying it was an optional thing. Is it needed?

I say try it & see how you like it. There's no right way & all that is important is your preference. No one else is smoking your pipe, but you. That said, you are right, they aren't necessary & a lot of people do chuck them. I found that they will keep your smoke a little cooler & definitely dryer, but don't often use them for simplicity's sake.