I am a huge Stanwell pipe fan and have picked up a half dozen of em' in the last few months. Great pipes for under $100. You cannot go wrong with Peterson or Savinelli either at this mid-price point. While he develops his palette and determines some favorites, there is nothing wrong with using the true and blue inexpensive Cob pipes.
As far as storage, keep them in the tins they came in or use good old mason jars. Keep out of direct sunlight, similar to cigars. Unopened tins will stay good for decades. Opened tins will stay good for a long time to. If the tobacco dries out, just give it a small spray of distilled water and let it sit a spell. The website Smokersforums.org has a wealth of information and archives on everything related to the hobby.
If you can find out what blends and strengths your friend has liked so far, I would be happy to bomb him with some nice samples of some great tobacco. Or I could send these to you for you to bomb him. Drop me a PM if interested.
