Description
Roy Brigham and his son created the Brigham System in the 1930’s when they patented the Brigham Distillator which is still in use today. All Brigham pipes use the system including the more expensive “Dot” series pipes. The beauty of the system is its universality, as the distillators (filters) work interchangeably among all Brigham pipes.
Brigham System Red Tobacco Pipes are available in a range of shapes. The System Series is positioned just below the One Dot as an entry level tobacco smoking pipe and is distinguished by a heat-stamped “B” and Maple Leaf logo on the stem. These tobacco pipes are 100% Briar pipes, made in Italy with the Brigham Rock Maple Distillator System. Each pipe comes in a branded Brigham pipe bag, and the item is shipped in a branded box, making it suitable for gift giving.
Tobacco pipe stands used in the pictures are for photography purposes only and are not included.
Bowl Height (Outside) | 1.71” / 43mm |
Bowl Width (Outside) | 1.50” / 38mm |
Pipe Length | 5.5” / 140mm |
Chamber Depth | 1.28” / 33mm |
Chamber Diameter | .73” / 19mm |
Pipe Weight | 42g |
Pipe Shape | Volcano |
Stem Shape | Semi-bent |
Filter | Brigham Distillator |
Shape Number | 84 |
Bowl Material | Briar |
Stem Material | Acrylic |
Finish | Sandblasted |
Country | Italy |
The Rock Maple “Distillator” System
The Brigham distillator system, developed in the 1930s, was created in response to a common complaint of pipe smokers – tongue bite. Eliminating this burning sensation created by the tars and acids of the burning tobacco (especially in wet and aromatic blends) became a consuming passion of Roy Brigham. He found the perfect taste-neutral and effective material in natural, untreated Rock Maple.
Each distillator is made by hollowing out the inside diameter of a 3.5” Rock Maple dowel and pressure-fitting a special metal cap to its end which helps the distillator fit snugly inside the pipe while making removal simple. The manufacturing process of the distillator uses no chemicals or adhesives to guarantee a taste-neutral system.
Benefits of The Brigham Design
By design, the Brigham system extends into the stem, providing an extra inch of wood through which the smoke passes. Consider that in most other pipes, smoke spends half of its time passing along a plastic or rubber channel which can add negative flavour to the smoke while providing no benefit of its own.
This combination of reduced exposure to plastic and rubber, drastic reduction in tongue bite, elimination of gurgle and flow-back as well as the ease of use has made Brigham Canada’s pipe of choice for generations.
Why use the Brigham System?
- Drastically decreases tongue-bite (the burning sensation on the tongue).
- Virtually eliminates gurgle and moisture.
- Does not impede airflow – you can pass a pipe cleaner through it.
- Does not impart any flavour of its own.
- Improves the smoking characteristics of even the wettest tobaccos.
- Decreases the amount of contact smoke makes with the stem.
- Distillators are easily replaced and can even be rinsed, dried and reused several times.
Replacing Brigham Distillators
As part of the after-smoke cleaning process, when the pipe has cooled fully, remove the distillator and inspect it. If it is a very dark brown colour, it is time for cleaning or replacing. Factors such as the relative wetness of the pipe tobacco, amount of moisture originating from the smoker’s mouth and frequency of use can change the length of time it takes to reach saturation. Being diligent will ensure all the benefits of the system and a dry, clean taste!
Remember that Brigham distillators are very effective sponges and have a finite capacity. Once a distillator has become saturated with moisture and impurities, its effects are eliminated, and the benefits lost. Additionally, as the distillator is used beyond saturation, it expands in size to compromise the way it fits into the pipe. It is possible for a distillator to become very firmly wedged in the tenon if left too long. This is not irreparable but can lead to poor pipe performance and ineffective cleaning.
The easiest approach is to replace your distillator once it becomes dark brown (almost black) with a new one. We recommend alternating between 2 distillators, allowing one to dry while the other is used.
Brigham distillators can be cleaned with water and left to dry before re-using. This is effective in a pinch; however, studies reveal that this method reduces the distillator’s ability to operate effectively after a few repeats.
About Brigham Pipes
Brigham tobacco pipes have a storied history rooted in Canadian craftsmanship. Founded in 1906 by Roy Brigham in Toronto, Canada, Brigham began as a small pipe repair business, later growing into a notable pipe manufacturer. Brigham's commitment to quality and innovation quickly distinguished the brand in the world of smoking pipes.
Brigham tobacco pipes are celebrated among pipe enthusiasts for their quality craftsmanship and innovative design. Established in Canada in the early 20th century, Brigham Pipes has built a reputation for producing durable and stylish pipes with a focus on enhancing the smoking experience. One of the key innovations that set Brigham pipes apart is the patented "Rock Maple Insert" system, developed in the 1930s. This system uses a small wooden insert made from Canadian rock maple, designed to reduce moisture and tar buildup in the pipe, resulting in a cooler, smoother smoking experience. This natural filtration method became a hallmark of Brigham pipes, appealing to smokers looking for a cleaner, more refined experience.
Through the years, Brigham expanded its line to offer pipes in various styles and finishes, consistently maintaining its reputation for high-quality craftsmanship. Though Brigham faced challenges and competition, it remained a celebrated brand among pipe enthusiasts. Today, Brigham pipes are valued not only for their performance but also as a piece of Canadian heritage, carrying over a century of tradition and innovation into the present.
Brigham pipes are crafted from high-quality briar wood, which is both heat-resistant and durable, allowing the pipe to age well and develop character over time. Each pipe is handmade, and the attention to detail is evident in the various styles and finishes, catering to different tastes, from classic to more contemporary designs. Their pipes are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, appealing to both beginners and seasoned pipe smokers.
Today, Brigham pipes are valued not only for their functionality but also for their heritage and craftsmanship, representing a classic choice for those who appreciate tradition, quality, and an enhanced, smooth smoking experience.