Breaking-in new pipe
Our goal for this web site is to reflect the personality of our club and members while offering fun and interesting pages for both the beginner and seasoned pipe smoker.
"Breaking in" your new pipe simply means developing a thin layer of carbon or "cake" on the inside wall and in the heel (bottom) of the bowl. The carbon cake acts like a grate in a fireplace to improve the draft and ensure complete combustion. It also serves as a barrier between the burning tobacco and the bare wood. Many pipes are pre-carbonized to assist you in the bread-in process.
There are several methods of breaking in a new pipe. We recommend beginning with a full bowl of tobacco. The most important thing is to smoke the tobacco all the way to the bottom! SMOKE SLOWLY. Tamp and re-light as often as necessary; do not be afraid of using too many matches. If your pipe gets too hot, let it rest awhile; then tamp the dead ashes and re-light. You can test if the pipe is too hot by placing it against your cheek. If it is uncomfortably hot, set it aside and allow the pipe to cool.
by London Calling with Simon