Frank method

The Frank Method is a method for packing tobacco into a smoking pipe initially developed by Achim Frank for use in pipe smoking competitions.

The Frank method involves compacting the tobacco from the sides without compressing the top. This process leads to a firm layer of tobacco at the top of the pipe bowl with a looser layer beneath, without over-compressing the top layer. This firm top layer and looser bottom layer produce a long burn with fewer re-lights, suitable for competition smoking or general pipe smoking.