Straight, Bird's Eye, Flame, or Ring?

Subtilis87

Now I know your ideal pipe might have a little of everything.  But, being forced to choose, what type of grain really catches your eye; Straight, Bird's Eye, Flame, or Ring Grain?  I really don't find myself caring about straight grain, but a nice Bird's Eye just does something for me.  I am also very partial to a good Ring Grain on a sandblasted pipe.

PappyJoe

Absolutely no preference. It's always the overall look of the pipe and how it feels in my hand. Or it could be the maker, the style of bowl, or the material.

Subtilis87

I do agree with you @PappyJoe about the feel of a pipe.  Selecting a pipe is a very tactile experience for me.  I think the feel of the sandblasted ring grain is a big part of what draws me to those pipes.

PipeProfessor

I agree with you both @subtilis87 and @pappyjoe. It's a package deal, the grain is just one part of it.

Subtilis87

Best of both worlds!

https://m.smokingpipes.com/pipes/new/becker/moreinfo.cfm?product_id=214235

drac2485

I agree its the combo of it all.  I find the shape of the pipe determines what I like to see.  I will say that I like a uniform look to whatever it is.  I'm not a huge fan of birds eye on one side and then straight on the other as it always end with a side that is just a blob.  However, I don't complain to much because I am not buying a $500 pipe and you can't be too picking with estate pipes your getting for cheap.  When it comes to sandblasted pipes I normally only get them if the they have a nice ring grain.

Woodsman

I also agree it's a combo of the two, feel and grain. I prefer smooth grain but that doesn't deter me from getting a well shaped sandblast.

idbowman

Shape, size, weight, and overall feel always come first for me.

Grain isn't at the top of my list, but all other things equal I prefer flame grain.

pipeman83

I agree with idbowman, grain isn't that important to me, if the size  is what I'm looking for , I don't worry about how the grain looks, it has to look nice, but it's not the deciding factor.

motie2

Big bargain on Kaywoodie Flame Grain pipe <as if>