Why Relighting a Pipe Is a Necessity
Articles - Lifestyle
Relighting a pipe has been a necessity as long as pipes have been enjoyed, which goes back several centuries. No successful means of avoiding this problem has ever been found, and many smokers do not consider it a problem. Rather, they find it an enjoyable part of the process and something that sets pipe smoking further apart from other types of tobacco-related enjoyment. Of course, if you decide smoking a pipe is right for you, you'll need to learn just how to relight that pipe, as 99.9% of the bowls you smoke will require relighting at some point. What should you do to relight it?
by DaveSabot


Relighting a pipe has been a necessity as long as pipes have been enjoyed, which goes back several centuries. No successful means of avoiding this problem has ever been found, and many smokers do not consider it a problem. Rather, they find it an enjoyable part of the process and something that sets pipe smoking further apart from other types of tobacco-related enjoyment. Of course, if you decide smoking a pipe is right for you, you'll need to learn just how to relight that pipe, as 99.9% of the bowls you smoke will require relighting at some point. What should you do to relight it?

First, make sure that the pipe is actually out. Take an experimental draw or two and exhale. Is there still smoke coming from the bowl? If there is, you might consider simply drawing a few more times to return some life to the dying embers in your tobacco. However, if the pipe has gone out, you'll need to start the relighting process. If you know how to light your pipe, then relighting it is not so very different and can be accomplished with relative ease.

You will need a lighter (Zippo pipe lighters are excellent here), as well as a tamper. The first step in the relighting process is actually to tamp down the burnt tobacco. Make sure you do not use a firm hand here; the process requires gentleness and a light touch. Tamp all the way around the bowl, to ensure that the mass of tobacco is level. You may decide to dump the ashes now, or you can leave them in the bowl. Some smokers do not remove the ashes, as they feel it adds to the experience of pipe smoking.

Now, take your lighter and strike it. Hold the flame above the tobacco. Draw on the stem and the flame should gently touch the tobacco. You'll need to use a light touch here, as well. Never hold the flame so that it is in contact with the tobacco if you are not drawing on the pipe.

Swirl the flame over the top of the bowl, in order to ensure that you are able to achieve even burning. Continue drawing on the pipe. Once you are sure that the tobacco has been relit, remove the flame and continue enjoying your smoke.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.

Dave Sabot is the owner of specialty butane lighters store. With expert knowledge of cigar accessories, including pipe lighters, Dave also authors a highly rated blog featuring lighter reviews.