I broke down and finally purchased a Mark Tinsky pipe. I had been eyeing this pipe at
Gray Fox and I took advantage of the Christmas sale to finally pull the trigger. I love Apple shapes, both straight and bent, and I just loved this rendition of a 1/8" bent apple.
This pipe is comfortable and well balanced, has a good draw, and the pipe cleaner passes through the draw hole perfectly. The craftsmanship is 'top-notch' in that the draft hole is centered flush on the bottom of the bowl. It does smoke well although the bowl does get a little hot. In the past, I have had pipes that have done this only to break in after a short time with no further display of this excessive heating; I think the Tinsky will as well. In any case, the smoke is cool, dry and clean with no 'woodiness' or 'stain-fumes.' Overall, I am pleased.
If you are interested in looking for a Mark Tinsky pipe, I would recommend either
Gray Fox or
Mark Tinsky's website. His pipes range from $100 (at Gray Fox) and up.
-Safari Bob
I just ordered another Mark Tinsky pipe: a coral carved bent ball. I have two other Tinsky pipes and the Sunrise bent apple may be my best smoker. Normally I like smooth pipes but Gray Fox is having a sale. For only $113 (with free shipping) I should get a great smoking pipe for little dinero. If you like Tinsky pipes, you better get one while you can!
Today I received a new pipe in the mail: a Mark Tinsky Sunrise 1 Star 5 Prince. After I smoked my first Tinsky, I knew that I wanted a seven-day set. I find the Sunrise finish most attractive and so I asked Mark to carve a prince for me. Four days after I made the request the pipe arrived at my doorstep! That is service for you!
I broke down and finally purchased a Mark Tinsky pipe. I had been eyeing this pipe at Gray Fox and I took advantage of the Christmas sale to finally pull the trigger. I love Apple shapes, both straight and bent, and I just loved this rendition of a 1/8" bent apple. 
