Edward’s XL Smooth Poker Estate Briar Pipe, American Estates

While it has, at times, contracted other parties to produce pipes under its name, Edward’s used to manufacture both pipes and tobacco of its own, with a view to becoming the “American Charatan” for the former. The brand was a pioneer for American freehand pipes in this way, with its employed carvers including the great Randy Wiley. This period, during the 1960s-1970s, coincided with Edward’s priding itself on using choice Algerian briar (which the Algerian war of independence later interrupted the supply of) which was specially oil-cured and very lightly finished.

This is one such pipe and, you’d asked me to describe what an “American Charatan” might look like, it’s certainly close. A stout poker with an especially long—almost demi-warden—mouthpiece, it’s a nice freehand take on a real classic, with a few extra modern touches to keep things interesting.

The condition is great. Minor rim darkening, but overall the pipe does not seem to have seen much use.

Details:

Length: 7″ / 177.8mm

Bowl Width: 0.84 / 21.33mm

Bowl Depth: 1.59″ / 40.38mm

Weight: 1.9oz / 56g