[Nick]

1. I am not exactly sure how to respond to this. I guess there is no real proper rule on surface area burn, as long as you are getting smoke you're good.

2. Depends, right after you take a puff there may be little swirls coming up but usually smoke does not float up from the bowl when you aren't puffing, the tobacco is just smoldering.

3. You shouldn't have to try to hard to get a draft, it should be fairly easy and free flowing. Walk on the side of caution if you find the resistance is extremely light you can tamp lightly to satisfaction. It's much harder to correct when the bowl has been filled to tight, you have to refill.

Hope this helps