wooden stem

[glycerine]

I have a very basic beginner question... because that's exactly what I am! Is there a reason that stems are usually "plastic"? Is there a reason why one can't be made from wood? (assuming it will not need to be bent!)

[Leus]

I think moisture would be the principal factor.

However, you should know that the most preferred stem materials are ebonite (which is a form of vulcanized rubber) and acrylic (which is a form of plastic.) And by "preferred" I mean the ones that most people prefer to buy.

Regards,

[TRS]

Stems can be made (and bent using steam) from wood. They're less attractive to most people, much less comfortable in the mouth and have poorer smoking qualities than ebonite and acrylic.