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Old 09-09-2005, 09:13 PM   #2
tedski
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Re: Proper packing technique

Quote:
Originally Posted by eastwood44mag
No matter what blend or pipe, the tobacco keeps going out, and takes 4 or 5 attempts to light it in the first place.
This problem on the initial light certainly indicates that your packing technique might really be the problem ... especially when different pipes and blends are used. In fact it could just as easily be that the tobacco is packed too loose as too tight. Either that or your pipe has a clogged airway - due either to poor construction or a bit of wayward tobacco.

Your goal in loading the pipe is to have a fairly evenly packed bowl up until the very top. The top layer should be more densly packed for the iniital light. Some do this by filling the bowl in 2 or 3 stages ... loading and then compressing the tobacco. Others fill the bowl to overflowing and then take a final big pinch and pack it in at the top. The end result is for good airflow, but there needs to be some resistance due to the packed tobacco. If it seems really constricted, try using a pipe cleaner to clear any obstruction at the bottom of the bowl. You can remove the pipe stem to make this easier.

The initial light is also very important. Ideally you should only need a single 2.5" wooden match. Hold the flame over the center of the bowl, about 1/4" above the tobacco and draw air through your pipe. Continue to draw air while moving the flame in an outward spiral. There should be LOTS of smoke. When you have the entire top surface really glowing, use your tamper to gently pack the burning embers down into the top surface. Keep drawing air through the pipe while using your tamper. As the initial light really tends to expand the tobacco on the top surface - you may have to use your tamper before you get the entire top layer evenly burning. If so, just light again.

Another thing to remember about keeping the pipe lit is to develop a good rhythm of drawing air through the pipe. This should not be a series of strong puffs every minute or so ... but rather lighter puffs at a more frequent pace. Tobacco tends to taste better when it's burned at just above a smoldering pace rather than glowing hot.

This seems to work well for me - I hope it can help you.
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