Buddha Bamboo Black Sandblasted Billiard, Cumberland

It’s no secret that pipes with bamboo extensions divide enthusiasts. I’m one of those who like it. The bamboo used to make this Billiard is a particular variety of bamboo with swollen nodes, which earned it the nickname “Buddha Belly Bamboo”. This is not obvious on this model, but what is noticeable is the absence of buds at the nodes. Enough about the bamboo, let’s come to this pipe. It’s a Billiard with a sandblasted finish and beautiful rings, well marked and twisted as I like them! The stem is cut from a cumberland bar from the renowned German company “New York Hamburger Gummi-Waaren” active since 1871 in the production of high quality ebonite.  The flock is made of Teflon and the shank is drilled to 4.2mm. The button of the bit (concave cut) is well opened in V-shape for an optimal draw. The briar, of Italian origin, has had one year of drying at the supplier’s and five more years in my store.