I never use the ring filters on my Falcons. Don't see the need for them. The inverted anodized aluminium cup beneath the bowl serves to both cool the smoke and serves as a condensation reservoir. The filters just inhibit this function. It was mentioned by Fred Hanna that providing an air pocket at the bottom of the pipe bowl is advantageous to cooling the smoke and enhancing the flavor. That's the reason for packing loosely at the bottom and for packing tighter at the top in loading regular briars. The Falcon provided this space and so is less susceptible to packing errors in the bowl. At least that's how I see it.
