For those of you who are unaware, there is a lot that goes into the process of actually enjoying a cigar. This beginner guide will help you select the “best cigars” for you to practice with, and it will teach you what you need to know in the vast world of cigars.
Look to Trying Mild Cigars
This type of cigar is suggested for beginners, because a more full-flavored cigar would be too strong for a new cigar smoker to handle. These cigars are also a great option for newcomers, since they are the cheapest type of cigar available. Thus, these cigars are great to practice with. Ultimately, with a mild cigar, it is not that big of a deal if you happen to ruin it. This is a much bigger issue with more expensive cigars.
Protecting Your Cigars
After you have purchased a few cigars, it is important to know how to protect them. Without a humidor, your cigars will only last for a few days. Don’t remove your cigars from their packaging until you are about to smoke them! Leaving a cigar unprotected will result in it quickly drying out. As a last resort, store your cigars in Tupperware.
Cutting Your Cigar
If you did not know already, the head of the cigar, or the end that is closed, is the part that you will smoke. But it has to be cut first. A hand rolled cigar has a cap placed on its head to prevent the cigar from coming apart, which will dry it out. Thus, it is important to not cut your cigar until it is about to be smoked.
There are a few types of cuts, and cutters, available to make these cuts. We’ll stick to the basics here. A straight cigar cutter is the one that you will find the most, and it makes a straight cut. To cut, place the head of your cigar into the guillotine and cut. This cut should be preformed 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch down from the top of your cigar’s cap.
Improvising
Although not recommended, if you are ever stuck without a cigar cutter, there are some ways you can still make a cut. The worst way to cut your cigar would be to bite it. This method will most likely cause your cigar’s wrapper to fall apart, and it could damage your cigar’s binder and filler tobacco. A better option would be to cut your cigar with a knife or by using some sharp scissors.
Lighting Your Cigar
Now that your cigar is cut, you can light it. It is recommended to light your cigar with a butane lighter or with wooden matches. In one hand hold your cigar, and use other hand to light it. Start sucking on your cigar, and rotate it while you continue to puff. This process will depend on your cigar’s size. Now grab your favorite drink and enjoy your cigar!