Microwave it for ten seconds and pack more lightly.This works fine for me as well in this humid weather. In the winter, I just lay some out on a napkin for an hour or two, some blends, longer.
That's what I have advised as well. I used to use the nuker, and when I'm being a bit lazy or impatient I still do. But I found that I didn't like how boiling the tobacco in the nuker changed the flavor. So I just let it air dry. Since I live in a dry climate it's not a problem, but placing the tobacco near a heat source, like an incandescent light, helps it gently dry in a more humid climate.I read somewhere that microwave drying is a poor method (don't remember why), so instead, I place enough tobacco for a bowl under an incandescent light, about 7 inched away, and check it every 10 minutes or so until it reaches the desired dryness.
I've watched lots of his, and many other videos. I feel like I was doing better earlier on, but somewhere along the way I learned something that has set me back. I don't know what it is, though. I just remember not having so much trouble back in January.If you have struggled since December I would focus on how you pack as well as the dryness. Have you watched some of muttnchop's videos on youtube? Some good basic demonstrations in his early ones to get you on your own.
Warren, most of the time I am in agreement with you, but on the matter of moisture, particularly since English blenders tend to tin with a LOT more moisture than American blenders, I'm going to disagree based on my experience.Next pipe, dry if you wish, load carefully (any method that has worked), get a good light and enjoy.
Thanks guys! I am on the site nearly everyday, but I don't log in or post very much.Welcome back, Bob!
+1 on this^^^Warren Said:
I think you are a victim of "over thinking".
Just sorta start over and don't worry so much about "getting it right." The pipe is neither a competition nor, is it all that complicated. You'll discover what works as you enjoy your pipe. Find your style while enjoying the journey.
Makes sense to me!Okay! How about this: "It's a wet blend. So let it sit until you think it's too dry. Then try again." But, change only one thing each bowl. If he's successful loading with other blends than that's probably not a problem. I think he's confusing himself and needs to quit "shot gunning" a solution.
Not really. Even by that measure, blends are too moist to get the most out of them.A good rule of thumb for moisture content in your tobacco is take a good pinch and squeeze it together, and then let it drop. If it stays together it’s too moist. Wait until you can squeeze and let go and the tobacco falls apart from itself,then you are ready to go.