The Kuripes are made of copper, and chrome plated on the outside of the pipe. The mouth and nose piece are plated in brass. Plating means that there is a approximately 100 micron thick layer of metal covering the base metal. The plating gives a nice detail to the kuripe which shimmers in the tones of the different metals. The metal kuripe is decorated with three engraved stripes that associates to the three stripes of Shiva which he wears over his third eye, the area where the snuff is blown. 

The pieces are welded with a tin and silver alloy which withstands great forces. Unlike kuripes made from bamboo these metal kuripes can be handled extremely roughly. It can be carried in the pocket without any concerns, be stepped on or dropped. Since its metal it can easily be cleaned and sterilized by boiling.

The angle of the two pieces is set by snuff connoisseurs with years of experience of kuripes of all sorts. The kuripe comes in three sizes: small medium and large. The medium size is the standard and fits most noses and face sizes. All come in 8 or 10 mm diameter. the 10 mm fits more snuff, and the 8 mm gives the blow a higher speed and reach. 10 mm fits most nostrils, but if you have tight nostrils the 8 mm might be preferred. 

Traditionally, Nu-nu, Rapé and Tobacco snuffs are applied by using a pipe made from bamboo or bone, which is blown through each nostril, on both sides. They can be self-administered using a V-shaped self-applicator pipe, which connects the mouth to the nostrils. Alternatively, the can be administered by another person using a blow pipe, which connects the blower’s mouth to the other person’s nostrils. The self-applicator pipe is known as ‘Kuripe’, and the blow pipe is know as a ‘Tepi’ in the Brazilian tradition.

General suggestion is to use a pea sized amount (50% for each nostril) of medicine for beginners, and dosage can be increased after prolonged use of a specific Rapé. Also, it is suggested that you use them within a quiet sacred space without any interruptions – sitting upright, either cross-legged or in a chair with eyes closed after application. Also, suggested slow breathing after application through the mouth/nose is very important. 

Other names: Blowpipe, self-applicator, snuffpipe.