FVF advise needed !

[redpanda]

Shroedingerscat: Thanks.. ! Looks like a good advise from someone who has messed with it quite a bit. I do not have a really wide bowl pipe. Perhaps it is time I got one and gave this a try. Drying FVF too much seems to develop a flavor I do not really like. The key, it seems to me is finding exactly the right degree of moisture content which works best for the person smoking. So far there have been both people saying it is impossible to smoke it right from the tin, and others, like yourself, saying they do smoke it wet sometimes. As I am writing this, I am smoking some that I left outside for about 4-5 hours, and it is not bad at all, but still takes a bit more puffing and attention to keep it going than I like.

 

[redpanda]

Ok, after having tried almost everything, here is what has worked best for me so far:
After opening the tin, I take out the flakes and lay them on some kitchen paper. I left them there for no less than 12 hours (maybe even a couple hours more, not sure). Then I rub all of it, and leave it on the table for another good 5-6- hours.Put it all back in the tin. At that point it is dry, but far from crisp. I pack the pipe in the three steps method ( or more like however many steps it takes method). Easy to light, stays lit and is a delicious smoke. I also have found it is a tobacco that can not be pushed. You have to smoke it slowly. It is for the slow smoker, and I suspect that is the reason some people find it a "difficult" blend to smoke. I myself admit I will have to learn how to smoke it. If one is ready to put up with this though, I think it is one of the best ( if not the best) tobaccos you can possibly find in the world. It is the best that I have smoked, ever.

 

[cosmicfolklore]

Sounds like you have found your method!! Do you notice the flavors more now that you aren't having your tastebuds scalded by steam?