This is the corollary question to "How do you learn the bagpipes?".

Traditionally bagpipes of all varieties were made in and exported from their traditional countries of origin: Scotland, Ireland, Brittany, etc. But in the Gaelic diaspora, emmigrants took their skills and traditions with them. Today there are many makers throughout the world for all bagpipe varieties. Over the years pipe makers in "the colonies" have grown to rival their British counterparts in quality and esteem. But of course, opinions vary and prospective buyers should pursue due research. Search websites, internet newsgroups, and ask other pipers for recommendations. If you go to a maker whose name is known and well regarded in that research, it's hard to go wrong.

The highland bagpipe is traditionally made of African blackwood, often with silver or ivory (now imitation) mounts and fittings. US prices start around $1000 for a new set of pipes. Of course you can spend as much you like depending on extras. In the last decade or so, some makers have crafted pipes out of poly-plastic materials. They have the same look from a small distance as traditional wood pipes, but can be had for well under $1000. These pipes actually produce a very good quality sound and shouldn't be dismissed in terms of quality. Purists will alway prefer wood, to be sure, but many accomplished players use poly pipes and rest easier on concerns of damaging thier pipes in inclement weather, bustling crowds, or on airplanes.

Uilleann pipes may be made of blackwood, but are also made in a variety of other wood species. Generally, uilleann pipers don't acquire a full set to begin with. Uilleann pipes can be had in stages. A quarter set or practice set is comprised of a bag, a bellows, and a chanter. A half set adds bass, tenor, and alto drones in an additional stock. Three-quarter and full sets add one or more regulators to the drone stock. The regulators are essentially additional chanters that are keyed so they can be played using the wrist to accompany the main chanter. The term practice set is a bit misleading, as it is still a proper instrument in its own right. Experienced pipers often play on a quarter set when in a very loud room or an other venue where the sound of drones or regulators would only be lost. A quarter set of uilleann pipes can be had for a little under or a little over $1000 US. Each additonal stage adds $1000 or more, so a full set can cost from $4000 to $5000. And of course you can spend more. Silver or imitiation ivory mountings, silver or gold plating on keyes, etc.

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