>>2337463Pretty sure they just mean a hardwood pipe. The most common hardwood (and pipe material in general) is briar. Cobs are perfectly fine, especially as first pipes.
Your pic looks solid, and MM is a good brand, but they have nice corncobs for half the price. Pic related (MM Country Gentleman) is my go-to. I don't think you'd regret the Judge, but you could get the same quality for less.
