What is a reamer and what is it for?

Little known though it is, the reamer has a definite use for pipe smokers. This cleaning accessory helps to give your briar a longer life. A closer look at this maintenance tool.

What exactly is a reamer?

Reamers are long accessories used by pipe smokers. Their role matters, since they lift off the layer of carbon that builds up in the bowl over time. The tool is not essential, but it can become so if you inherit an old family pipe you would like to use, or if you have neglected the upkeep of one of your briars.

In truth, a pipe smoker who maintains a pipe regularly will generally have no need of a reamer. For anyone renovating or restoring pipes, on the other hand, it is more than indispensable. It saves time when removing the cake and helps avoid damaging the bowl.

What does a reamer do?

The more you use your pipe, the more a layer of carbon settles in the bowl. If it is not removed, it will narrow the bowl to the point where you can no longer fill it properly with tobacco.

The reamer’s job is to scrape the inside of the bowl in order to take that carbon layer away. Even used regularly, it will not damage your pipe. It generally opens out so that the walls can be scraped more effectively. On some models a small removable part conceals a cleaning bit.

Using a reamer is usually very straightforward and calls for nothing more than a little elbow grease. The tool does all the rest of the work by itself. Although it is not essential, it does help smokers keep their pipes in good order and saves time. It is therefore a useful tool to own, or to give to someone close to you.