Filling your pipe

A bowl of tobacco that burns evenly without going out can only be obtained by careful packing. Pack the tobacco into the bowl in thirds. First fill the bowl to the top loosely, then gently press it down to about half full leaving plenty of spring in the tobacco. Repeat this procedure, pressing more firmly in the upper two thirds of the bowl. There should be some spring left when the bowl is full. The draw should be consistent and steady. If the tobacco is not packed tightly enough, it will burn too quickly, overheating the pipe and likely burning your tongue (tongue bite) . Empty the bowl and repack it using a more firm pack and vise for a bowl to tightly packed. I do not fill my pipe completely so when lighting I will not chance burn the top of the bowl.

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