One of the most common dilemmas for beginner pipe smokers is figuring out how to hold a tobacco pipe while smoking: in your mouth or with your hand?
The classic method is to hold it with your hand, which avoids putting excessive strain on your teeth and prevents jaw fatigue.
However, this solution is practical only when you're seated or relaxed. The situation changes if you're walking or your hands are occupied.
In this article, we’ll explore which tobacco pipe models are best suited for holding comfortably between your teeth.
How to Hold a Tobacco Pipe in Your Mouth
The choice between holding the tobacco pipe in your teeth or with your hand essentially depends on two factors: the length and the weight of the tobacco pipe.
The strain on your teeth is directly influenced by the length and weight of the tobacco pipe, based on the principle of leverage.
For this reason, a tobacco pipe that is light, not too long, and preferably straight is ideal for being held in your mouth without difficulty.
A great example is a sandblasted or rusticated tobacco pipe. These finishes help reduce the tobacco pipe's weight further, making it more comfortable for hands-free smoking.
Only a tobacco pipe with these characteristics can be easily smoked between the teeth.
An interesting exception is the Full Bent shape. Despite its pronounced curve, this type of tobacco pipe can be easily held between the teeth due to its reduced leverage, which puts less strain on the jaw.