How long to wait

[MX]

I did a salt and Scotch cleaning of my 2 old Dr. Grabow pipes because the smelled rancid and it had been about 4 years between smokes.
So how long should I let the dry before trying them out again. When I do start using them, I will do the 3 to 1 half bowl to full bowl rotation for the first 20 or so bowls so I can get some good cake started in the bottom.

TIA

Tim

 

[LilBastage]

I usually wait at least 2-3 days, sometimes a week. It all depends on how fast they are drying out. The alcohol evaporates pretty quickly from the surface, but the little water that is in whisky does get into the briar. I am a little compulsive when it comes to keeping my pipes though. I tend to go a little overboard on the cautionary side of things.


Some people go at it the next day, though. I guess there isn't likely a definitive answer.

 

[psyktek]

I use 151 proof Everclear for pipe cleaning, and I usually smoke the pipe the next day. Doesn't hurt to be cautious, though.