Corncob Pipe

Corncob pipes bring back memories of simpler times. A corncob pipe has always been the preferred smoking instrument for farmers. Many pipe enthusiasts use corncob pipes to sample pipe tobaccos because they provide a smooth smoking experience and the cob itself lets the taste and aroma of the tobacco shine. It isn't too difficult to make a corncob pipe if you have access to corn. Learn how to make a corncob pipe that will provide you with a pleasurable pipe smoking experience.
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Step 1: Cutting

Cut an ear of corn. Use a fresh corncob because it will be firmer. Look for one that has plenty of pith, which is the inside part of the cob as opposed to the kernels. Cut or break the cob in half and use a knife to cut it to the size you like best. Hold it in your hand to determine how comfortable it feels.

Step 2: Drying

Allow the corncob to dry. It's best to dry it in an oven at around 100-degrees F for several hours. Allowing it to dry naturally will take several days. The drier your corncob is, the better.

Step 3: Shaping

Hollow the cob out with a small knife. Start in the center of the corncob you've chosen to work with and turn, dig the pith out to the desired width and depth. About 2 inches for the depth will provide room for a good amount of tobacco. Keep the diameter small enough so you don't have thin pipe walls. Thinner walls will make the cob hotter in your hand when you smoke it.

Step 4: Filing

Shave the outside kernels off or leave them on. Leaving them on gives your corncob pipe a more natural appearance and offers a soft cushion for your hand, but shaving them away and sanding the cob will give you a smooth finish that you can enhance with varnish. Adding a small bit of ceramic clay to the bottom of your corncob bowl will make your pipe last longer.

Step 5: Finishing Step

Use a small knife or drill bit to put a hole in at the base of the corncob. It's best to choose your stem first, which will give you an indication of how big you want the smoke hole to be. The larger the smoke hole is, the more smoke you will get when you puff your pipe. A piece of bamboo is ideal for the stem. You can hollow it out easily and fit it into your smoke hole snugly, then glue it in place. If you're not set on a completely homemade corncob pipe, you can use the stem from another pipe for your corncob pipe. You can even use the top portion of a cornstalk to make a stem.