Smoking pipes have been around for centuries and remain a popular form of smoking today. Many people who smoke from a pipe also use screens as part of their setup. But why? What purpose do pipe screens serve when it comes to smoking? Let’s take a look at the importance of using screens while smoking pipes.
Benefits of Using Screens with Smoking Pipes
Screens are an essential component in any pipe-smoking setup, as they help keep ash and debris from entering the stem and clogging up your pipe. This prevents bits of material from getting sent into your mouth when inhaling or burning your tongue if you accidentally touch the bowl with your lips. In addition, screens help prevent sparks or embers from flying out of the bowl and potentially causing burns.
Screens come in various sizes, shapes, and materials to fit different types of pipes. The most common types are made out of metal mesh or stainless steel, which can be easily replaced when necessary. Other types include ceramic, glass, brass, and even silicone. Depending on the type of material used to make a screen, it can also add flavor to your smoke by providing additional surface area for oils to collect on before entering the stem.
In addition to protecting you from potential harm or injury, using a screen is also beneficial for maintaining your pipe over time. Without one, excess moisture will accumulate in the stem due to condensation build-up that can lead to mold growth or other damage inside the pipe itself. With a screen in place, however, this moisture is kept out—ensuring that your pipe stays clean and dry between uses.
Pipe screens can also be beneficial in terms of convenience. Not only do they make it easier to clean out your pipe after use, but they also save you time by eliminating the need to constantly re-pack the bowl with fresh material before every smoke session. And because they come in different sizes and shapes, you can find one that fits perfectly into almost any type of pipe bowl.
Conclusion
Using a screen while smoking out of a pipe is an important step that should not be overlooked because it helps protect both you and your equipment from damage or injury caused by ash and debris flying out of the bowl during inhalation or contact with hot surfaces such as embers or sparks. Screens come in many different materials so that you can find one that fits perfectly with your specific type of pipe while adding flavor at the same time! Keep these considerations in mind next time you're setting up for a smoke session—you'll be glad you did!