Most manufacturers have introduced "Smooth Pipe Tobacco" products in 2009 and 2010 to take advantage of the disparity in the Federal Excise Tax (FET) rates between Pipe Tobacco at $2.83/lb. and RYO Cigarette Tobacco at $24.78/lb.. For the value conscious smoker it's important to note that some of these new Pipe Tobacco brands can be purchased for under $15 per pound, approximately 30% the cost of similar Roll Your Own Tobaccos.