Saturday, July 11, 2009

How to Light a Pipe

By Dave Sabot

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.

One starts by making certain the tobacco they add to the pipe is free of any clumps. This might take a while and it's best done by laying out the tobacco on a flat surface beforehand. This process ensures that the tobacco combusts evenly and that one gets the best possible experience from the smoke. Take some time, clean the tobacco of any clumps or other matter and pack it lightly in the bowl.

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.

Hold the lighter just above the tobacco and puff a few times to draw it into the bowl. The tobacco will fluff up a bit. It shouldn't light on its own but it will smoke just a little during this stage. Once it is properly dried, tamp it back down until it's level with the bowl. The pipe is now ready to be lit.

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.

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