Behind the system of Kapp and Peterson pipes

The Kapp and Peterson name is renowned in the pipe world for its distinctive designs. The Peterson system is unlike any other and has been the subject of a patent since 1890. Here is what lies behind it.

A revolutionary anti-moisture system

Ahead of their time, Kapp and Peterson pipes are prized for their anti-moisture system. Where the earliest pipes left smokers with a gurgling sound, those from Kapp and Peterson did not have that drawback.

Knowing that their models were unique, the makers filed a patent in Great Britain, then in Ireland in August 1890. The reputation of the pipe-making house then spread around the world. Eight years later, another patent, this time on the mouthpiece (P-Lip), changed the way the pipe is smoked.

How do Kapp and Peterson pipes work?

The idea is simple: a double reservoir captures the moisture to stop it rising into the mouth. The smoke is therefore drier and cooler. What is more, thanks to the unique bevelled shape of the P-Lip mouthpiece, the smoke is directed straight towards the palate, and the small reinforcement under the tenon prevents bite marks.

Opinions differ

Many smokers genuinely like these Kapp and Peterson pipes, finding them easy to live with and well suited to a beginner. The P-Lip mouthpiece, however, divides enthusiasts. A good number of them report discomfort at the palate, caused by smoke that is sometimes hot. The same goes for cleaning the pipe, which is more complicated because of the double reservoir.

Whatever the case, many owners of Kapp and Peterson pipes would not swap them for anything. Copied many times over, the double reservoir that limits moisture has never been matched by another brand. It is a genuine technical achievement. The company works regularly on improving its P-Lip system to make it as effective as possible.