Lots of tamping, am I just packing it wrong?

[snagstangl]

I find in tamping that is to essentially "stoke the fire" so while tamping also take a puff or three until you see smoke comming from the bowl or your mouth. I think for a long time I tamped when a pipe was starting to go out. But I ONLY tamped, and did nothing else. It seemed to work sometimes to keep the bowl going. On lighting I may light and Only tamp a few times. Maybe this is obvious to everyone else but I was thinking literally to tamp and no other action is needed.

 

[zooey159]

I've been smoking pipes for so many years that I have forgotten what a pain it was to learn how to pack and tamp a pipe in order to have an enjoyable smoke. Made me think about how I actually do pack a pipe, big mistake-not a good idea to over think the process. Just remember to pack it looser than you think you should and tamp lighter.

 

[rmbittner]

"not a good idea to over think the process."
I absolutely agree. There isn't one "right" way. And different blends will require different approaches, as may different-size bowls. The only big "no" I can think of is ramming the bowl tight with tobacco. Other than that warning, I'd just say relax, fill as you feel appropriate, tamp when necessary, and don't worry too much about relights.
Bob

 

[spartan]

If you think you're packing is too light and the ember isn't touching unburnt tobacco then tamping should help.
Or you can pack harder then you think you should. If that doesn't work try lighter, and lighter, and lighter.
Roll it up in a ball, stuff it all in at once, cup it in your hand and roll the pipe over it upside down until you've stuffed it all in there.
Just keep trying different things.
As long as you're not re-lighting 100 times I say you're doing it right.
I tamp very often, but very lightly. If I tamp too hard while I'm smoking and I compact the leaves too much I'll have to relight a bunch, or try to loosen it with the pick on my Czech tool.
Trial and error bro.

 

[tycr0]

I tamp fairly often, but VERY lightly. I am still very much a novice, but when I started out I tamped pretty hard and it did more harm than good. Let the weight of the tamper do the work, you should use almost no additional pressure. Since adopting this technique, my smokes have become fair more pleasurable. Hope this helps!