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How to Replace Tobacco Pipe Stems

Tobacco pipes are a traditional way to consume tobacco smoke and they can be made out of a variety of compounds. Consuming tobacco has been a religious and medicinal practice for thousands of years, with the first signs of tobacco use dating back to 1 B.C., according to the University of Dayton. A modern tobacco pipe is comprised of five distinct parts; bowl, shank, stem, lip and filter. While all of these parts perform a specific task, together they allow tobacco to be safely burned and enjoyed; however, smoking out of a pipe does not reduce the risk of lung cancer or any other health ailments associated with smoking.

Things You'll Need

Replacement stem
Extra fine sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Review the specific design of your pipe before attempting to replace the stem. There are five main tobacco pipe designs, which include: 1/8 bend, ¼ bend, ½ bend, ¾ bend and a full bend. While there are other, more unique, tobacco pipe designs, these are the five most common type of pipe designs. If you are unsure about the type of pipe you have, compare the shape of your pipe to those found in reference No. 3.
- 2
  Select the type of stem you would like to replace. If you have used the standard stem design, which is the round or oval taper, then you can visit your local tobacco pipe supply store and purchase the appropriate type of stem. The design elements of stems are constantly changing; however, make sure you purchase a stem that will fit for your particular type of pipe.
- 3
  Remove the old stem from your tobacco pipe, which may require extra fine sandpaper to enhance your grip. Be mindful of the filter, which is a small metal piece of the stem that connects the shank to the stem.
- 4
  Replace the old stem with the new by lining up the filter with the shank. The shank is connected to the bowl and it is where the stem connects with the rest of the pipe. Make sure that you do not force the filter and stem into the shank without properly aligning first as this will potentially damage your pipe.
- 5
  Secure the stem into the shank and press the two parts together firmly and hold for three to five minutes. Make sure that the stem fits perfectly and creates an airtight seal to prevent smoke from escaping.

Antiquing