Advice to break in a pipe

[jsharp]

I just received a new Peterson in the mail and want to break it in properly. The paper they sent says to start smoking 1/4 bowls then working your way up. I have read many articles on the internet, including this site on how to break one in. I'm sure you guys have broke many pipes in. What say ye? Do I really need to start this way?

 

[hilojohnny]

It's really all up to you....there is no "correct way"....That being said, it's probably best to begin with less than a full bowl...you could go with 1/2 or 1/4....but take your time...no hurry. Best to break in a new pipe when you can relax and take your time!.... :D

 

[ohin3]

Load, smoke to the very very end, rest for at least one day, load again, smoke the very very end...repeat. Has always worked for me.

 

[igloo]

Wipe the bowl clean with a paper towel , it will make a harder cake .

 

[cortezattic]

In all likelihood what you've read on the 'net has served pipers well for a very long time. Philosophies and techniques may vary, but the common denominator is the advice to smoke slowly and coolly.
But hey, let us know what you're going to do, and how it works out for you. Will you be coating the bowl with something? Using a particular blend to "season" the pipe with a particular taste? Using Igloo's popular paper towel trick? What results are you getting?

 

[collin]

As my daddy always said;
"If all else fails,.....read the instructions."
I usually find something in the "If all else fails" category that works.

As a matter of fact, I have a file cabinet full of un-read instructions for everything from crock-pots to welders.

 

[python]

Cortezattic Said: but the common denominator is the advice to smoke slowly and coolly.

This is the most important part and the only real "rule" for breaking in a pipe and can not be stated enough. No matter what method that you choose to break in your pipe, be sure to smoke slow and cool. Even if it means that you have to relight quite a few times.