They don't make them like they used to!!
I have 2 of the original protopipes. The one from my grandparents had the stem break off after many many years of use. The one from my father is a little dinged up but a very solid pipe. I was super excited to order the new generation rocket pipe. Shopping was very fast. But disappointment upon opening. The flange bent on the new pipe the very 1st time I tried opening it compared to my father's pipe that I couldn't get the flange to adjust by hand trying my hardest to get it to bend. As the flange bent with a normal opening the stash pod twist, the weld broke free. The poker free falls out of the pipe if you hold it mouth piece down. If i had not ordered directly from proto pipe I would have assumed it was a cheap Chinese knock off. The quality of the brass is definitely worse then what they used in the 70s, Not worth what they are charging for it. I can return it since I didn't smoke out of it before it broke but I'll be out the shipping. I didn't ask for an exchange because I no longer trust the quality of their materials.
Proud owner
Thank you!!! This new rocket version of the original ProtoPipe is beautifully engineered. It rests in the hand like it was meant to be, draws smooth as silk and stays cool in more ways than one. Outstanding craftsmanship, I couldn’t be more pleased. Great job!
40 years of service
For decades ('90's)this has been in my pocket. I liked them so much when I found them I bought one for everyone I knew. I have a couple of old timers and the new one. After a few modifications to the lid and shortened the poker tube for easier access, the new design became the dominant riding buddy. I very much love the no trap/clean anywhere design. I would push the poker tube all the way into the trap so it can't get black stuff in it though. Trying to find a solution. Thank you for a lifetime of not having to concern myself with what's coming with me.
Superb Product
Thank you to the guys at Protopipe for producing a brilliant little package which reflects a feel of quality craftsmanship. My "Rocket" arrived well packed and in one piece, I have given the pipe the once over and I'm very happy with what I received. The tolerances keep it firm and in one piece whilst I'm going about my day so no problems with ash or tar etc. in the pocket. Great stuff,
thanks
Love it
My dad bought one of the original proto pipes when the company first started. Here I am almost 50 years later. I just wish he was still around. I love the pipe. I also have his old one but it never feels right when I was trying to use it. I want to thank the whole company because this little pipe remindes me of my dad and that man he was and the man I hope to be some day. Thank you
From the Erickson family
The One to Rule Them All
I remember many years ago, hanging out and someone pulls out a classic Proto Pipe. I was young and very interested in it, asked where I could find one, dude had no idea (no internet back then), and he wasn’t about to sell his. Needless to say, I smoked away the idea of getting my hands on one, for about 25 years (if I had to guess).
One day, nothing better to do I happened to grasp a random brain fart and remembered that pipe. After some digging I found this site. The wait period was intimidating, but damn it I wanted that bowl…still, after all those years.
I ordered mine in June of 22, and got it the first week of Oct 22. I took my very own Proto every single day, my watch, wallet, and the pipe. Put it through several months of daily use and wear. I knew I was right all those years ago, this pipe is awesome. It’s been better than any bowl I’ve ever had, I’m sure it’s an opinion and definitely tangled up in my youth with some nostalgia, but it truly is an amazing piece that covers every base.
I honestly hope you guys and gals at Proto read these because I’m sending a very sincere “Thank You!” To everyone there. You made me the bowl I always wanted, the one I could never forget.
If you’re still reading my insanity, then take some advice from me…get one! They really are a great lifetime bowl. Just come ask my kids after I’m gone, I’m sure they’ll still be using this one.
Thanks again Proto Pipe!!
Iconic
I am proud to own this peace of iconography. It draws well and feels great in the hand.
Great pipe and came early
What a great surprise...I wasn't expecting my Proto Rocket until February and it showed up on NYE! The craftsmanship is fantastic and I like the way it draws. It is very well made and nice to look at too. I am extremely happy with my purchase! Thanks Proto Pipe guys! Cheers,
Ian
Dig it
Really like this pipe, easy to clean, USA made. Im sure when others see it they will want one.
My first Proto Pipe is still around, almost 40 yrs after its purchase. I hope this new Proto Rock...
My wife is now using my original Proto Pipe, which I purchased back in the 1980s. I broke the stems on another Original, just a couple of years after I bought it. More recently, the stem on a Mendo Pipe purchased a few years ago also broke. 'Something about carrying these in my front pocket, perhaps. I'm nervous about the stem on this Proto Rocket. My fingers are crossed this one will last a good long time. The metal used on the lid is about the thinnest I'd like to see on these pipes; the edges are actually a little sharp. But, seriously, I really like the design of Proto Pipes. These are utilitarian, easy to clean, and quick to use. The Proto Pipe has been my go-to pipe and I'm looking forward to using the Proto Rocket. It's great to see the gang in Willits is still cranking out the peerless Proto Pipe.