I used to use them but I have given up except for my birth year Dunhill. I would like that pipe to stay pristine.

My reasoning is multifaceted.

1. A work of art. The stem is one of the most used parts of the pipe, if not the most. The pipe crafters (the good ones) take their time to make it comfortable and a work of art on its own. Putting that rubber/vinyl piece on goes against all the hard work that went into making it. I also don't like the look of it.

2. That nasty nasty. Drool, tobacco juice and whatever else is going to collect under there. If you're using the rubber bits they become destroyed by constantly putting them on and taking them off (in addition to the biting while clenching). If it's a bit that you're leaving on, all that saliva and juicy goodness stays there and festers.

3. Stems with character. After all they are my pipes and I think a pipe with teeth marks has character and looks loved. Besides, you can always clean your vulcanite stems. It's part of the stewardship of a pipe IMO. Estates with chatter are commonplace so why should I not enjoy my pipe to the fullest while it's mine?

These are just my thoughts. For all the people that use them please don't take this as me bashing you. Everyone enjoys their pipes differently.