Breaking in a Pipe with Sir Walter Raleigh

[Monssen13]

From what I understand, SWR (normal, not "Aromatic") does have a light topping of molasses and anise. I also understand that Burleys are useful in breaking in pipes, at least according to some. Does SWR's topping disqualify it from building a neutral cake/carbon layer?
Thanks!

 

[RustiePyles CPG]

You should break in your pipe with whatever you like to smoke. If you like SWR, than it’s just fine for breaking in your pipe.

 

[proteus]

In my book it would unless you dedicate pipes to burley blends with casing topping. I have a 307 system I use for everything and sets of dedicated pipes for all manner of specific types. Eventually you'll buy dozens of pipes. For the first one try everything in it except ghosts of lakelands and maybe some strong Latakia like pirate kake. You can smoke straight burley a few bowls to exorcise most common ghosts other than the ones I mentioned. If you are concerned and want to create neutral cake first use a straight burley like Lanes BL/WB.

 

[ThermionicScott]

I wouldn't worry too much about molasses/anise toppings. Those are incredibly common additives to pipe tobacco, hiding in blends where most people don't even detect them.

 

[didimauw]

Yup, like @RustiePyles CPG said, you can use any tobacco you like.

I do know for a fact that if you want a fast break in, Carter Hall can't be beat. I've completely coated pipes in 5 bowls before with CH.

 

[Bbailey324]

I just start them all on Captain Black and go from there. Um, no actually I don't do that. Lately I have been smoking Granger in some new pipes. It seems fine and reasonably neutral even with a bit of molasses/anise casing. Prince Albert works as will CH. Or the tobacco of your choice if you know what you want to primarily smoke in it. I wouldn't worry at all about starting with SWR.

 

[Scottmi]

smoke something you like. that's it.