Thanks to @Haebar and @tmoran , I have some excellent samples to try. But I'm scratching my head trying to figure out how to smoke some of these, as some are cut in slices and coins. Any ideas?
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Two perspectives:
http://www.cigarbum.com/forum/genera...html#post71711
http://www.cigarbum.com/forum/genera...thod-1353.html
Both are solid. The former leans to new flakites; the latter explains a more experienced point of view. I started out with flakes, coin type by the way (Escudo, still my favorite of all), using the unauthorized "Damn the torpedos! Full speed ahead." method. I'd say it was lucky I didn't give up forever after a few weeks of blue-lip suck-cheek fire-tongue. Granted Escudo isnt the easiest flake to smoke out the tin as it tends to be moist; dry it can be a breeze (for me. Now. Not sure about then.)
rub them out like you do during a "Golden Girls" Marathon
well thats at least what i do.
Please don't judge me!!
http://i1368.photobucket.com/albums/...psugekon60.jpgQuote:
Originally Posted by Shemp Jizzle
Hi Trent,Quote:
Originally Posted by Usafvet509
With ANY pipe tobacco, the idea is to pack it so that you have a good draw, no matter what the cut. @MisterMoo mentioned, (in another thread per his link), to keep in mind the expansion of the tobacco with flakes (coins) and the moisture. More moist = less firm pack. More compressed the tobacco = less firm pack.
A good draw could be defined as one that gives the smoker the best quality smoke but that's real nebulous, so I'll try to make a more practical explanation.
Make sure that the pipe has no detris in the bowl or shank (use a pipe cleaner). You don't want a mini-missile coming into your mouth (yeech).
Draw through the empty pipe. You'll want to reduce the airflow when you pack (~50%). You'll find your best balance over time.
- Start with longer strands or partially complete pieces (coins and flakes). Press gently and test your draw. Should be (very) slight resistance.
- Add more tobacco, press with a bit more pressure and test the draw. Should be a little more resistance.
- Finish with enough tobacco to come close to or even with the rim. Press more firmly so that the resistance is ~50%.
- Don't leave strands hanging, remove or pack.
As long as you have a smooth draw, with some resistance, it's not important how many 'pinches' it takes, but you eventually want to be able to fill the pipe in about three pinches (holds together better in the bowl). Your mileage may vary but if the draw is tight, empty the pipe and start over. You'll get the hang of it soon.
You'll know that you've packed well if your flame is drawn into the bowl (during the initial light) all around the the surface. We all make personal adjustments as we smoke but that's another subject. Hope that this helps.