So I've been dawdling around here in The Leaf for a while. Thank you very much to all of you that helped provide me with great advice.
Unlike many of my other addictions, it was actually nice to do a little bit of research before jumping right in.
I found a nice local tobacco shop after a few tries. (http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php/325750-Visit-to-local-tobacco-shop)
I knew that I wanted to start with a straight pipe that wasn't too expensive. I finally just shut my eyes and went with one that felt comfortable in my hand. The tortoise pattern of the stem didn't bother me, so I made my choice. I picked up a pipe tool and a variety of pipe cleaners.
Next was the tobacco choice. I wanted to have an enjoyable first experience. I decided to go with a small tin of McCellands Honeydew.
When I got home I packed the bowl, using what I believe is called the 3 layer technique. Pack full, tamp. Pack full, tamp. Pack full, tamp. I grabbed the dog and wife and headed out for a 2 mile walk. I used wooden matches and did not have a wind screen. I smoked for the duration of the walk. I had to relight 3 times which I didn't think was too bad. (I don't mind relighting.) Occasionally I would tamp down the tobacco if it began to appear loose. There was a very small amount of unburned tobacco left in the bowl, just enough for the Devil. (I scraped down the inside of the bowl: should I have done that?? Should I do it after every smoke?)
Overall the smoke was great. I enjoyed the taste and aroma of the tobacco. It burned smooth and slow. I don't exactly know what tongue bite is, but a lack of any discomfort in my mouth makes me think I avoided it appropriately.
Much to my surprise, my wife even complimented the smell of the tobacco.
Overall, a huge success! Thanks again for all of your helpful advice BL.
Unlike many of my other addictions, it was actually nice to do a little bit of research before jumping right in.
I found a nice local tobacco shop after a few tries. (http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php/325750-Visit-to-local-tobacco-shop)
I knew that I wanted to start with a straight pipe that wasn't too expensive. I finally just shut my eyes and went with one that felt comfortable in my hand. The tortoise pattern of the stem didn't bother me, so I made my choice. I picked up a pipe tool and a variety of pipe cleaners.
Next was the tobacco choice. I wanted to have an enjoyable first experience. I decided to go with a small tin of McCellands Honeydew.
When I got home I packed the bowl, using what I believe is called the 3 layer technique. Pack full, tamp. Pack full, tamp. Pack full, tamp. I grabbed the dog and wife and headed out for a 2 mile walk. I used wooden matches and did not have a wind screen. I smoked for the duration of the walk. I had to relight 3 times which I didn't think was too bad. (I don't mind relighting.) Occasionally I would tamp down the tobacco if it began to appear loose. There was a very small amount of unburned tobacco left in the bowl, just enough for the Devil. (I scraped down the inside of the bowl: should I have done that?? Should I do it after every smoke?)
Overall the smoke was great. I enjoyed the taste and aroma of the tobacco. It burned smooth and slow. I don't exactly know what tongue bite is, but a lack of any discomfort in my mouth makes me think I avoided it appropriately.
Much to my surprise, my wife even complimented the smell of the tobacco.
Overall, a huge success! Thanks again for all of your helpful advice BL.