Hi Friends - I am making progress. I never had bite chugging straight black cavendish but since I got into blends and aros recently I have torn up my mouth. Tongue, cheeks and palate!! Anyway, after being very careful and taking my time, drying a bit more, sipping and not torching when I light I am happy to say I have had two bowls without bite over the past two evenings!!! I read a ton here and elsewhere and I watched some videos, esp useful are the YouTube videos from Muttnchop Piper and his breathing technique. I even watched some old videos of Bing Crosby smoking!!!! Anyway, I am sure I will get bit at some point again but I am happy about the progress. OH and I am avoiding whiskey while piping for now and just having tea, water or a beer. - Cheers!