I'm starting to suspect that the first pipe was pressed meer, hence why it didn't suck up as much wax, and that this one was block.
This pipe has had two bowls through it now and I'm happy to say it's a good smoker. I hope y'all enjoyed seeing the process and as I learn more I'll share.

Kind of interesting. The closing pics were taken while the bowl was still hot. It has since cooled and much of the color has disappeared.