I'm no expert on 'tools' - I'm a newly-converted joint smoker who has recently discovered the wonders of the water-pipe and bong.

But I have noticed that my highs are 'better' when the weed gets filtered through water; better meaning I seem more alert and, at times, more philisophical (sp). When I smoke a joint - I just get goofed and f**k around until I pass out.

So IMHO I don't think a pipe will make much difference but if the weed gets filtered it might give you a 'cleaner' high.