Tobacco suddenly goes out

[bcirka]

I've been having this problem recently, where I light a pipe, it smokes perfect for ~5 minutes or so, and then literally, I'll take a sipp (still perfect), then immediately take another sip, and nothing, the pipe is out. It's frustrating sometimes because normally if a pipe is going out, I can feel the change in the smoke, the flavor, and then work on getting it back into shape. But with this kind of burn out, there seems to be no warning.
Currently, on the porch smoking 1-Q (Dried for 30 minutes), in a somewhat windy environment.

 

[philip]

This happens to me when I have packed very loosely, which I prefer.
You might try tamping a little more often, but very lightly.

 

[bcirka]

Thanks Philip. I'll give that a shot.

 

[brewshooter]

Happens to me also. I agree, I like to pack loose, but it requires a more constant attention from my tamper.

 

[photoman13]

Also make sure your pipe is clean. Especially the stem and shank.

 

[captainprophesy]

Sorry to sound like a broken record... but since I started using the "swirling palm" method (I dont know the right name for it so I will go with what sounds like some ancient kung fu style) quite a few years ago when I was taught by some old kung fu master... ok maybe not a kung fu master... but he was old lol... anyways I met him at the pipe show in Richmond, VA. about 12 years ago and he showed me this method and have never had a problem since... the pipe pretty much loads itself in a swirling fashion so it smokes and burns evenly all the way down.
I posted a video that I found last week when someone asked me about it... but I cant remember the thread it was in.

 

[johncorosz]

So you relight or you tamp steady. Big deal, your smoking apipe not a cigarette or cigar.

 

[captainprophesy]

So you relight or you tamp steady. Big deal, your smoking apipe not a cigarette or cigar.

Tru Dat!

 

[philobeddoe]

I agree with Phillip, work on your tamping technique, it sounds like you need to tamp a little more often. It's especially important in windy conditions when the tobacco is being lifted ever so slightly at the top by the wind gusts.

 

[bcirka]

Captainprophesy - I've been looking for the video and can't find it. Any way you'd be able to relocate it? It might be a great asset for our community here.

 

[philip]

Maybe these will help, bcirka.
Pipe Packing Methods 1
Pipe Packing Methods 2 - Videos

 

[brewshooter]

The guy on the James Fox pipe videos demonstrates the "Tornado Palm" load. I use it from time to time, but I also find it doesn't work with every cut of tobacco.

 

[cynyr]

The Harry Palm Method
I have seen a video, still looking for that. I use this exclusively, and most of my packing problems are history!
EDIT: The video

 

[cigrmaster]

When you are done packing your pipe there should be some resistance like sucking through a straw. A tighter pack will not go out that quickly.

 

[kennyjo]

Thanks for the video.
I think it is kind of the same as "the Frank method" (loose tobacco as the bottom and tight tobacco as the top).

But I really like the way how he fills the bowl.

So cool!!!!!!!!

 

[numbersix]

Love this video. But I've said this before - but my only complaint with this method is if you use aros - the rim gets gunked up and sticky.
Otherwise, it's a brilliant method.
I have had good success just gently dropping tobacco into the bowl using the 3 step method. The key is just making sure it is packed densely with a good draw.

 

[brewshooter]

Yep, that's the James Fox video I was thinking about. For a nice loose cut, it is my primary loading technique. For a chunkier blend I either need to rub it out further or just go ahead and pack it in with my thumb. Though, I've gotten much better at the "Thumb Pack" method!

 

[sjpipesmoker]

Stop smoking in the shower!!! :rofl:

 

[lazydog]

Just tried the swirling palm method and it does seem to improve the burn. Amazing. Always something new to learn with this pipe thing. :clap: