Cutting Tips
Lighting Tips
Cigar Storage
Cigar FAQs

Cutting Tips

Properly cutting a premium cigar is an art form unto itself. The fastest way to ruin that expensive smoke is to miscalculate while performing this important first step. The primary objective is to ensure that you can get a smooth, easy draw from the cigar without causing it to unravel or deform. There are a variety of different methods at the aspiring aficionado’s disposal:

1. Guillotine Cutter – By far the most popular method, guillotine cutters range from inexpensive to extremely pricey. Both single and double-edged guillotines are available, but a quality double-edged guillotine cutter represents the best overall value because there is much less of a chance of damaging the cigar’s wrapper. Place the cigar flush against one of the blades of the cutter and perform the cut in a swift, even manner. Ensure that you do not make the cut beneath the line of the cigar’s cap, otherwise it could suddenly unravel during smoking.

2. V or Wedge Cutter – Named due to the shape of its cut, a V cutter provides an excellent draw because of the amount of surface area it exposes on the head of the cigar. However, the draw can be easily impeded if you have a tendency to ‘chew’ or roll the cigar in your mouth. Another point to consider is that good V cutters are generally too large to carry around. Not recommended for beginners.

3. Bullet Cutter – Bullet cutters are small, easy to use, and inexpensive. They cut a small hole about ¼ of an inch in diameter. As such, it’s not really feasible on a cigar with less than a 44-46 ring gauge. To make the cut, simply place the circular blade of the cutter in the center of the cigar’s head. Gently press as you twist the cutter clockwise. Take care not to cut the cigar too deeply.

4. Cigar Scissors – These work on the same principle as ordinary scissors, except their blades are specially curved to provide a smooth, clean cut. Essentially, you’ll get the same cut from a pair of cigar scissors, as you will from a double guillotine cutter. While they do provide an excellent cut, quality cigar scissors are bulky and usually expensive.

Lighting Tips

When lighting, place the cut end to your lips and hold the flame about half an inch away from the foot of the cigar. Puff gently to draw the flame to the cigar, while rotating it at the same time. This will help you to achieve an even burn. After a few good puffs, remove the cigar from your mouth and inspect the lit end. If it’s burning well, sit back and enjoy your smoke! Otherwise, try blowing on the lit end to help it even up a bit.

Never light a cigar with a Zippo lighter or a candle, as these methods can impart some very unpleasant flavors (i.e. lighter fluid, wax). Instead, use a butane lighter or a wooden match. Remember to let the sulfur burn off the end of the match prior to lighting your cigar.

Above all, it is very important not to rush the process. A sloppy lighting job can cause your cigar to burn too hot, which can upset the balance of flavors and make it taste like an ashcan.

Cigar Storage

In order to remain in smokeable condition, premium cigars require a carefully regulated environment of approximately 70 percent relative humidity and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Experienced aficionados will often adjust these settings to their own tastes, but it’s usually safer for beginners to stick with the oft repeated ‘70/70’ until they gain a bit more experience. Regardless of personal preference, you’ll need to purchase a quality humidor if you want to keep your cigars fresh.

A humidor is more than a simple cigar storage box. Its specialized construction maintains your smokes in their preferred environment and helps them to mature and ‘mellow’. You’ll want a humidor that is solidly constructed and has a heavy lid that closes with a tight fit. It should not be absolutely airtight; however, as this may cause your cigars to grow moldy over time. The interior should be lined with Spanish cedar (not aromatic cedar). This particular type aids in the maturation of your cigars and also helps to repel the advances of the dreaded tobacco beetle.

Another important factor to consider is the size of your humidor. Everyday smokers who want to age some of their cigars might require a sizeable humidor with plenty of room to stash ten boxes or more. More likely, you’re a relative newcomer who only requires a small humidor to store 25 cigars or less. Either way, put a little thought into your purchase to ensure that it will meet your needs.

There are a variety of different methods that can be used to introduce the necessary moisture into your humidor. Some sponge-based humidification systems are very effective and are available for less than $10.00. Always moisten the sponge with distilled water (or a prepared propylene glycol solution), as the minerals in ordinary tap water can impair its function. You should check your humidifier at least once every two weeks to ensure that it is fully charged.

A hygrometer will ensure that your humidor is maintained at the correct relative humidity. Inexpensive analog models are available for less than $5.00, but a reliable digital hygrometer represents better value starting at approximately $20.00 at your local consumer electronics store. Also, most digital models include a temperature gauge, which provides you with a more precise level of control over the conditions within your humidor.

Cigar FAQs

Over time, I’ve noticed that a white powdery substance has appeared on my cigars. What is it?
This is called ‘plume’ or ‘bloom’. It is a normal part of a cigar’s maturation process and is nothing to be concerned about. If you like, you can gently wipe it off with a clean, slightly damp cloth. Be aware that if a green mold appears on your cigars, they are ruined and should be discarded.

I’ve purchased some Cuban cigars and I’ve noticed that they have green spots on their wrappers. Why is this?
Green spots are a genetic trait of Cuban wrapper tobacco. It's perfectly normal and will not affect the taste of your cigars.

What are tobacco beetles? How can I prevent them from damaging my cigars?
Tobacco beetles are tiny insects whose eggs are occasionally present within cigars. Generally, they remain dormant and harmless, but this can change if the ambient temperature rises higher than 75 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point, the eggs can hatch and the beetle larvae will start chewing your cigars! The best defense is to keep an eye on the temperature within your humidor and move it to a cooler location if it becomes too warm.

The tobacco beetle has struck! What should I do?
If you notice a hole in one or more of your cigars, it means that you must take immediate action to mitigate the damage. Take all of the cigars out of the humidor, seal them tightly in a ziploc bag, and put them in your freezer for several days. This step should destroy the remaining eggs and kill any activated larvae. To avoid further wrapper damage due to the sudden temperature change, transfer the cigars to the refrigerator. After a day in the fridge, you may return the cigars to your humidor, but first make sure to wipe the inside clean with a damp cloth.

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