a couple of my pipes

Those are looking pretty good, Richard.

Do you participate on Kurt's forum? Pipemakersforum.com

It's a really valuable place to pick up info, and especially to get critiques from professionals as regards shape and finish.

I really like the big jag on the shank of the top pipe. The stem is over-bent though, and it un-pretties the lines a bit.

Sir
Thank you for the insight. No I havent seen any of the sites just kind of feelig my way through but I am getting more into trying my hand at pipes and will seek information where I can get it so thank you I will look into it. I also believe you are right on the bend of the stem easy fix and will streighten it a little I thank.
Best Regards
Richard

It's really been an important part of my accelerated learning curve, Richard, to talk to people who know more about making pipes than I did. I started out as an accomplished woodworker and long time pipe smoker. This should translate into "instant expert pipe maker" but it translates into SFA.

Kurt Huhn tells new guys to make a pipe, then make a pipe that smokes good, then make a pipe that smokes good AND looks good. It's good advice, and getting OBJECTIVE judgments on your art is critical if you want to get past pipes that look like they are home-made. And it's just little things, usually, little tweaks that correct a piece and presto - it sells.

Best of luck, hope to see you at the pipemakers forum.

PS it takes all your might to post a pipe that you have slaved away at, and have it picked apart by pros. It burns, but it's the only way to learn.

Sir
I value your wisdom and thank you for your words I agree with you. The only way on gets better is to listen to those who know more than I do. I heard of a man by the name of I believe tim or tom west who for small fee will show you everything you need to make great pipes. I do plain on linking up with him if I ever get a chance and learn from a master. Once again thank you for your honest words I take them to heart. Looking forward to doing better work.
Best Regards
Richard

There's a joke at the forum, Richard: You know the difference between pipe making and pipe smoking? Most pipe smokers could stop.

I live in Missouri and there is a place call John Denglers in old town St. Charles where I am a member of the pipe club. Larry the owner of the shop sells my pipes. I have sold alot of pipes from there and they all come back for another one they like very much the way they smoke and the light weight of my pipes. I always look for ways to improve and try odd shaps sometimes its a hit others times not but it is always fun.
Best Regards
Richard