Lighting a pipe, and packing it beforehand, are part of the overall pipe-smoking experience. While the tobacco itself does provide a great deal of pleasure, a lot of what makes a pipe so relaxing is the entire ritual. There are several steps involved in getting just the right combination of packing, lighting and smoking the pipe.

The small cleaning attachments should be used on the pipe first. Clean any old tobacco out of the bowl, a bit will tend to stick when it is tapped out. Check the pipe to make sure there’s no resistance when it’s not packed. Now comes the packing process. This is a bit complex but knowing how to pack the pipe makes all the difference.

Some individuals are sensitive to the taste of lighter fluid in the first few puffs. While many smokers don’t notice it at all, some of the higher-end lighter fluids advertise that they impart no flavor to the smoke during the lighting process. If one happens to detect a bit of fuel taste while lighting the pipe, switching fluid brands will likely alleviate this problem. Again, this is a matter of personal preference. Fuel should always be of a high quality simply to preserve the lighter and to ensure a reliable light.

Lighting the pipe is a two-stage process. After cleaning the tobacco of any clumps, one packs the bowl halfway, tamps it down and tests for an easy draw. The bowl is then packed to the rim and tamped down so that it is level with the top of the bowl.

The second light is done in the same way, drawing the flame down into the tobacco excepting that this time the tobacco is actually heated until it burns on its own. Don’t get the tobacco too hot. Again, take a bit of time and let the tobacco naturally build up enough heat to maintain combustion. Getting the tobacco very hot will result in the smoke having a harsh taste. Puff a few times and, when the tobacco is lit, sit back and enjoy! The tobacco should burn for quite a long time when it is properly packed and lit.

Ryder is the owner of an online specialty torch lighter store and has expert knowledge of butane accessories, including outdoor utility lighters.


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