Exoticas Help

[Itami]

So, basically, for the last year I've been using starlight, golden, and 3 kings QL charcoal, and in the middle of that heard people sing the praises of natural coals. I tried romman, which was absolutely horrible and I'd never buy it again, but in my last shipment I got a box of exoticas. These are miles ahead of the rommans, and last longer than my 3 kings, so I'd say I'm converted.

However, I can't figure out the best way to size/place them on the bowl. I've tried a number of configurations, and love it when it goes good, but I can't seem to emulate those good sessions for a repeat. I was just wondering what some of you guys' input was on how you cut/brake them, how many you place on the bowl and where? Thanks a bunch.

[mushrat]

Howdy,
I used a hack saw to cut them into one inch or so pieces when I used them at my lounge. I'd actually line up a few fingers and notch them with the saw and then break them with my hands. As for how many coals. That all depends on what tobacco you are using. Each tobacco has a different heat level for optimal cooking.

[Majid]

Most tongs have serrated edges designed for cutting coals into smaller pieces, i use that and it works fine. Just saw into them a bit and then snap them off. Got that tip somewhere here on the forum but i forgot from wich member.

[leadpipecinch21]

i just use this crappy little pocket knife i have...it's got a serrated bit on it, so i just line up a couple coals, score em all, and just snap em with my hand. works well enough for me.

[StarCuzz]

i have a box of coconaras and a box of exoticas. coconaras > exoticas... there is no contest. Edited May 2, 2008 by StarCuzz

[chromecarz00]

I use a chainsaw to cut those suckers up.

[Johnny_D]

I use a chainsaw to cut those suckers up.

I'm assuming Crome is 'aving a Giraffe.

I just use a serated knife and score across the top at the locations I want a break [1 Bar will be broken into, roughly, 4 seperate bits] And then break them in my hand.

Chainsaw massacre seems a tad OOT

JD

[Alademuerte]

I use a chainsaw to cut those suckers up.

I'm assuming Crome is 'aving a Giraffe.

I just use a serated knife and score across the top at the locations I want a break [1 Bar will be broken into, roughly, 4 seperate bits] And then break them in my hand.

Chainsaw massacre seems a tad OOT

JD

Exactly how I do it.. A key, a saw, a knife, they all work at making a little notch on top that allows you to then break it.
4 pieces as well.

[OC4111]

I use a knife to score each coal. I break into 1/4ths which I think is the best size to use. So far, in my limited experience. I'm good with 2 pieces when smoking Tangiers on my medium phunnell. I use 3 maybe 4 pieces on wetter shisha, like Fusion or SB.

[Itami]

I use a knife to score each coal. I break into 1/4ths which I think is the best size to use. So far, in my limited experience. I'm good with 2 pieces when smoking Tangiers on my medium phunnell. I use 3 maybe 4 pieces on wetter shisha, like Fusion or SB.

Cool, this was the answer I was looking for, but I thank everyone for their responses and input. I didn't know if 3/4 of the "finger" was overkill, because it looks like a lot compared to the surface area covered by the 3 kings I used. But now I know. Thanks again!