@Mistermoo,

Dan, excellent post.

Your point about the expansion of the tobacco, while smoking, should be highlighted. Anticipated the draw beyond the pack. I do smoke moist so I err on the side of loose. Long ago I put a lot of thought into packing flakes but by now I tend to be automatic. I never dry or cut the flakes so I adjust based on the moisture, component leaf, manufacturer and how it's cut but Dan's comments made me pause to reflect on the particulars.

I use whole or partially broken flakes at the bottom of the bowl to prevent particles from entering the stem. Light pressure and a draw check that should be easy with only a minimal of resistance. I'll drip in all the small pieces and press them with a similarly light touch and draw and I finish with more complete flakes with more pressure and some resistance in the draw. I smoke a lot of Gawith Hoggarth flakes (duh) that are long so I feed and press them into place and break off the unused portion for the next smoke. I never pack a flake past the rim. Larger pieces at the top of the bowl reduce the flying embers (hate them) and slow the burn but it will take a little more diligence to light. I use stick (or paper) matches because I can control the light better and they burn cooler than butane (helpful with a stubborn flake).
I'd add Peter Stokkebye Luxury Navy Flake as a good beginner flake.

Quote Originally Posted by Emperor Zurg View Post
Didn't care much for Glengarry folded and stuffed because I couldn't get it to burn but cube cut, it was sublime. I'll be watching this thread for more educational tidbits I can add to my flake technique arsenal.
Nothing wrong with cubing the flake, especially a thick and coarse one like Glengarry. If it was sublime, you did something right.