| Smoking
a Pipe.
A new pipe should always be broken in. This involves only
half filling the bowl and drawing gently to allow the charring
process to happen gradually; it will also allow the pipe
to harden.
To enjoy a satisfying smoke a pipe must be filled correctly.
Filling the Pipe.
Hold the pipe upright and trickle in tobacco until the pipe
is full. Tamp it down gently then repeat two or three times
until the bowl is full. Draw on the pipe prior to lighting
to ensure there are no blockages. Failure to fill the pipe
properly may cause the pipe to burn hot and bitter, leading
to "tongue bite" a stinging on the top of the
tongue.
Lighting the Pipe.
Light the pipe using a pipe lighter or wooden match, petrol
lighters can cause unpleasant odours and tastes. At first
try to char the top of the tobacco, to allow the flame to
catch. The "charring light" as it is called should
aim to ignite the tobacco, without scorching the bowl. Tamp
the charred tobacco down and then apply the second flame,
puffing gently as you light the tobacco.
Re-lighting and Moisture.
Tobacco does naturally go out if left. If this occurs just
re-light the pipe. Occasionally you may hear or taste moisture
in the pipe, if this occurs run a pipe cleaner down the
flue, tamp and relight the tobacco if necessary.
Cleaning and Maintenance.
A well cared for pipe can last for years, improving with
age. To make sure this happens you need to undertake basic
maintenance. Never refill a warm pipe, wait until it has
cooled. Many smokers prefer two pipes to allow ample cooling
time. When cleaning the pipe, hold it by the bowl, the simply
tip the ash from the bowl, before running a pipe cleaner
through the stem to remove moisture. Do not bang the pipe
against a wall or shoe, as this will damage the bowl.
A small layer of carbon will slowly start to accumulate
from the first smoking, never allow this layer to get more
than 1:16 of an inch (1.5mm) thick or risk the bowl cracking.
To maintain this layer use a pipe reamer or smokers knife,
(NOT a penknife or pointed object.)
Insert the reamer then slowly rotate to strip way excess
carbon.
Following these basic instructions should ensure your pipe
smoking experience is a long and enjoyable one. Should you
require further help and guidance, do not hesitate to talk
to one of Purdy and Tully’s members of staff, they
will be happy to assist.
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