Peter Stokkebye Luxury Bullseye flake is my staple. Made by Orlik from very thin sheets of their VaPer blend and then a core of sweet black cavendish inserted.
I've tried a dozen ways and for me the best complexity and efficiency in burning comes from dried coins crumbled. The pieces are lightly stuffed in 3-4 lifts. Once the hot light is complete they tamp very easily with a light touch. A 24oz box at $45 earns it high marks as a good investment.