Bad first pipe experience: Me or the tobacco?

Originally Posted by AD720

It sounds like the tobacco was too wet, causing all the relights. I'd try again but leave the tobacco out for a couple 10 or 15 minutes before packing. Also you have had the pipe packed too tight. Those are a couple things I've personally had problems with that caused me to have to relight constantly. The draw of the pipe should be like "sipping soda from a straw".

right on, I'll try leaving the tobacco out to dry a bit. Thanks!