From: ??????????????????????
Subject: 1. Pipe Problem [Vulcanite Stem]  2. Visit to England

Steve,

This responds to the posting by Peter Melchior in PD #263 regarding
oxidation in Vulcanite stems.  In terms of solutions to this problem,
my own (superficial) research agrees with his conclusion that pipes
should be kept out of direct sunlight.  However, I am not sure that
keeping them in a drawer or closet is such a good idea, from the point
of view that this (it seems to me) would inhibit the air circulation
necessary for them to air out and dry out between smokes.  The
compromise that I practice is to keep my pipes in an area of my house
that is not subject to direct sunlight (i.e., sunlight falling
directly on them), although there is of course the ambient daylight.

I, too, have had problems with Vulcanite oxidation.  As a partial
solution, my experience seems to indicate that a product called Briar
Pipe Wipe is worthy of consideration for use by readers of Pipes
Digest.  This product can be used both on the bowl of the pipe and on
the stem, and one of the claims of the manufacturer is that it retards
oxidation.  It was Jim Cooke who, some eighteen months ago, suggested
that I use Briar Pipe Wipe "religiously", as a solution (or at least
an ameliorant) to the problem of Vulcanite oxidation.  I have done so,
using it after each smoke.  For those pipes that I smoke infrequently,
I have applied some Briar Pipe Wipe on an occasional basis.  So far,
the results have been very satisfactory, or so it seems to me.  It is
my impression that this product is not widely known, but the most
recent issue of Pipes and Tobaccos contains an advertisement for it.

While I'm on line, I thought I would share with readers of PD a very
pleasant experience that I had on a recent trip to England.  Upon my
arrival there, I called the Ashton pipe factory in Romford to arrange
for a visit, and to purchase my first Ashton.  My reasons for wishing
to purchase one transcend the usual ones of fine craftsmanship,
excellent smoking qualities, etc.  I am in a sense, although an
American, something of an honorary "local boy" in Romford, as my
in-laws live only a short distance away and, indeed, my wife was born
in Old Church Hospital, which is just across the street from the
industrial estate where the Ashton pipe factory is located.

I was received most courteously by Bill Ashton-Taylor himself.  We
selected a bowl that corresponded to my requirements, and in the
course of the next hour or so I had the great pleasure of watching him
create a beautiful Ashton Sovereign, of which I am now the proud
posessor.  Needless to say, this was a highpoint of my trip!!!!  :-)

Finally, many thanks to you, Steve, for your excellent work as editor
of PD!!!!!

                                         Chuck Ziegler


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