Pipe Cleaner as Pipe Loading Aid?

jmatt · Mar 12, 2016

Recently, I started using a pipe cleaner when loading my pipes. I start by inserting the pipe cleaner into the mouthpiece and all the way into the bowl. Then I load my pipe in a typical fashion. Once I've stuffed all the tobacco into the pipe, I pull out the cleaner. This guarantees me the smallest portion of empty space right down at the draw hole, and I never inadvertently pack the draw hole closed.
Does anyone else do this? Any reason not to?

iajaffe · Mar 12, 2016

I do this so I do not get that little dottle in the first draw test.

warren · Mar 12, 2016

Not sure why one would want a cleaner sized draw hole. Depending on the cut style I tamp with my finger and a wee twist to nest the tobacco. I do this scooping in the pouch or stuffing from the tin/jar. So, a nice load, no big draw hole in the bottom leads to a gently draw and a good smoke. That said, I see no reason to not do as you are. If it works, it's good.

ray47 · Mar 13, 2016

I do it with certain cuts of tobacco like cube cuts.

jpmcwjr · Mar 13, 2016

Interesting. On a few occasions, I've run a cleaner into an unlit packed bowl as a small piece or two of fresh tobacco is partially drawing the air hole.But it happens so seldom that I see no need to take the prophylactic approach. Plus I am lazy—or economic in movements, take your pick!

deuce26 · Mar 13, 2016

I've tried it in the past and didn't notice a difference. But, maybe it warrants another go. It makes sense conceptually to me.

johnnyiii · Mar 13, 2016

I know a few who do. It helps with draw for them. I do the same thing but in reverse after the bowl is lit to free the draw up or get rid of girgle.

johnnyiii · Mar 13, 2016

I know a few who do. It helps with draw for them. I do the same thing but in reverse after the bowl is lit to free the draw up or get rid of girgle.

shawnofthedead · Mar 13, 2016

I do it slightly differently. If a small amount of tobacco got in the draught hole when packing, I will insert one afterwards to push it back into the chamber, and then light.

sparrowhawk · Mar 13, 2016

Interesting. I will try this.

pipesinperu · Mar 13, 2016

Yep, I read about this trick on here from samcoffeeman and I've used it ever since. It's just habit now, my packing is probably fine without out but it guarantees a perfect draw every time, so why not?

derfargin · Mar 14, 2016

I do this all the time, and on occasion when I tamp depending on the tobacco cut.

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