Been a pipe smoker since I was 15 and have enjoyed the trip. My first latakia blend that I smoked was 3 Star Royal. I knew it tasted different but had no idea why. I started working at a Tinder Box when I was 18 and the adventure's began. Learning about the different types of tobacco's and the tastes that were out there to enjoy. The 1st quality pipe I smoked was a Castello 4 K, that I now own 15 yrs after smoking that pipe for the 1st time. I met some great people along the way. Some of my hobbies include smoking pipes, riding Harley's, working out and shooting hand guns. I have a conceal permit., and am a NRA member. Most of my pipes are Italian and English briars with about a dozen Meershaums.Some of my favorite makers are Castello, pre 80's Caminetto's and pre 90's Ascorti's and Savinelli's. I do have some Dunhill's (which I personally have been disappointed with for the money) and Charatan's (Lane era and back).