Why Can't I Make it to the Bottom of the Bowl?!

[sablebrush52]

Smoking to the bottom of the bowl isn't necessarily a good thing. I've had a couple of pipe makers comment that you can overheat a bowl, trying to burn those last few strands. Personally, I never worry about burning every last bit. When I feel that a bowl is done, it's done.

 

[jmill208]

I smoke every bowl from the bottom up. That way there is no waste. :crazy: ::

 

[easterntraveler]

Just smoke the damn pipe. I use to get caught up in all the do's and don't. The only ones I care about now are the ones that are known to destroy your pipe. Small clouds, little clouds, tamp, fold, etc... blah blah blah trial and error my friend do what works for you unless it completely bothers you then seek some advice. Enjoy

 

[bphilli75]

Ae1pt - well said. I really enjoyed your post. Especially for folks new to the pipe, I think reading others here and there posting variations of, "I never have any problem smoking to the bottom of a bowl and a fine white ash on only one relight," can create a false expectation. It did for me until I just accepted that was probably a crock of crap. It's nice to see the comments on this thread affirm that.
Peace,

Bill

 

[brudnod]

When you have enough pipes and enough tobacco blends you will find the right mix for the ephemeral bottom-of-the-bowl smoke. And where exactly did you hear that you had to smoke to the absence of dottle? Like everyone has said above, just enough what you have smoked and throw out the rest. Enjoy!

 

[woopigsooie]

I didn't hear that I should, it's more like I never heard you shouldn't.

 

[phil67]

^^ Either way, and all in all... just smoke for the pleasure of the bowl/tobacco and no further. At times that will lead you to the bottom of the bowl, and at times not. Bottom line... there is no right and no wrong way and nothing written in stone. :wink:

 

[jamespworth]

Thought I might chip in on this one as I'm also having trouble. You guys mention the Tobacco being dry however I like plug and obviously it's very moist when I cut it, If rubbed out in a jar for days it smokes well but I find there isn't nearly as much flavour that way.
If I cut fairly thick rub out and leave out in the air 15-30 mins before smoke it's not too bad, still quite wet but does need quite a few re lights.
I have found if i slice it finely and rub out again leave for 15-30 mins I get a good smoke not many relights still good flavour but maybe smokes a tad hot.
What do you guys do? any hints or tips? it seems like a bit of a mine field.
Cheers

James