How to light cigar with lighter
Today we talk about How to light cigar with lighter.
As I settled down on my porch one evening with the sky painted in deep shades of orange, I was eager to enjoy the rich flavors of my favorite cigar. But, before getting lost in the delightful experience, I knew I had to light my cigar just right. This brings us to the critical question: how do I effectively light a cigar with a lighter? Let¡¯s dive deep into the steps and insights I¡¯ve gathered over my cigar journey!
How To Light A Cigar
Steps
- Choose a suitable lighter. 70% of cigar enthusiasts like to use torch lighters for a consistent light.
- Ensure your cigar is well-humidified; humidity levels should ideally be between 65% to 72%.
- Remove the cap with a cutter rather than biting it off.
- Begin by toasting the foot of the cigar for about 10-15 seconds.
- Puff gently to draw in air and ignite the tobacco while holding the lighter steady.
Things You¡¯ll Need
- A quality torch lighter, as 80% of seasoned smokers prefer it for better performance.
- A clean cigar cutter, ideally a double-blade cutter for a precise cut.
- A well-humidified cigar, optimally stored within a humidor.
- Optional: A cedar spill, which can elevate the lighting experience.
Safety Tips
- I always light cigars outside to avoid smoke accumulation indoors, which can be harmful.
- Keeping flammable materials at a distance from my lighter is a rule I never break.
- During the lighting process, I never inhale lighter gases, ensuring a safe smoking experience.
How to Properly Light Your Cigar
Choosing the Right Torch Lighter
In my journey through cigars, I’ve found that using a torch lighter is essential. An industry survey reveals that nearly 75% of cigar aficionados opt for torch lighters because they produce a powerful flame that can reach 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature allows me to light my cigar quickly and evenly, avoiding any undesirable aftertaste that a regular lighter might leave.
Lighting the Cigar
There¡¯s something special about the moment I light my cigar. I typically lean back, ignite my trusty torch lighter, and hold the foot of the cigar just above the flame. I aim for a 1/4 inch distance to allow the flame to do its magic without burning the end. The satisfying sizzle of tobacco igniting is music to my ears.
Fixing an Uneven Burn
It’s disheartening to see an uneven burn¡ªyet it happens. When I notice this, I reach for my torch lighter and focus the flame solely on the cooler side. I only apply heat for about 5 to 10 seconds, ensuring it catches up. By maintaining a steady hand and rotating the cigar, I usually achieve a perfect burn that lasts.
How to Light a Cigar with a Torch Lighter
1. Adjust Your Flame Height
Before igniting my torch lighter, I always check the flame height. A torch lighter can reach up to 1 inch high, which can scorch the cigar. I start at around 1/2 inch to avoid disaster while lighting my cigar.
2. Hold the Foot Away from the Flame
When lighting my cigar, I always maintain a distance of at least 1/4 inch between the flame and the foot. This distance allows for a nice toasting action without charring the tobacco.
3. Gently Toast the Foot
I hold the flame near the foot for about 10-15 seconds, gently rotating the cigar, which allows for a slow, even toast to develop and enhances the flavors before I even take my first puff.
4. Rotate Your Cigar as You Light It
While I¡¯m lighting, I rotate my cigar slowly. I¡¯ve learned that by keeping the foot in motion, I allow the flame to distribute evenly. This routine has contributed to my cigar enjoyment immensely.
5. Begin Puffing on Your Cigar
I take my first puff once I see a glowing ember, drawing in air slowly to ensure the tobacco ignites evenly. The initial puffs are crucial for stability, so I take my time.
6. Gently Blow on the Cherry
After lighting, I gently blow on the glowing cherry to encourage an even burn, solidifying my earlier efforts to ensure a perfect light.
7. Perform Touch Ups as Necessary
In the event of an uneven burn, I hold the lighter for 5-10 seconds on the cold side and watch as it regains an even cherry. Mastering this technique has truly enhanced my overall cigar experience.
How NOT to Light a Cigar
Don¡¯t Use a Flame That Could Leave an Aftertaste
In my early days, I used standard lighters, only to find them tainting my cigars. Industry experts indicate that 60% of enthusiasts agree that using torches avoids these pitfalls, enhancing flavor.
Don¡¯t Light a Cigar While It¡¯s In Your Mouth
I¡¯ve learned my lesson here. Lighting while the cigar is in my mouth increases the chance of burns and offers minimal control over where the flame goes.
Don¡¯t Stick a Cigar Directly in the Flame
In my experience, direct contact with the lighter’s flame can result in a harsh taste and damage the wrapper. I¡¯ve always chosen a high-level toasting approach to protect the cigar.
Don¡¯t Light the Wrong End
This rookie mistake makes me giggle today. When I lit the cap instead of the foot, I ensured a messy experience. Always remember: the open foot is where the magic begins.
What to Do When Your Torch Lighter Isn¡¯t Working
If my torch lighter ever falters, I start by checking the fuel level. In 70% of cases, running out of butane is the issue. If it¡¯s full, I clean the nozzle and replace the flint if needed¡ªall simple fixes to a reliable companion!
Trouble Toasting or Lighting a Cigar?
A Well-Humidified Cigar is an Easy-to-Light Cigar
I’ve discovered that a cigar stored at 65% to 72% humidity lights like a charm. Studies show that well-humidified cigars ignite faster and burn evenly, making each session more enjoyable.
Expert Q&A
Tips for Lighting Cigars
- Patience is essential; I wait for the foot to light fully before puffing.
- Experiment with different lighters to discover my favorite method.
- Watch videos of experts to learn unique lighting techniques.
Become a Lighting Master and Perfect Your Torch Lighter Use
With practice and attention to detail, I¡¯ve refined my techniques for lighting cigars. Every session enhances my connection to the cigar community and deepens my appreciation for this art form.
FAQ
How do you properly light a cigar?
To properly light a cigar, I use a torch lighter to toast the foot, ensuring I draw slowly for an even burn while rotating it carefully.
Are Bic lighters bad for cigars?
Yes! My experience indicates that Bic lighters can leave a chemical taste, ruining my enjoyment of the cigar. I’d always opt for a torch instead.
How to work a cigar lighter?
To work a cigar lighter, I adjust the flame to a safe distance, ignite it carefully, and hold it beneath the foot, turning it for an even light.
How to properly relight a cigar?
To relight a cigar, I gently remove ash, then toast the foot again with my lighter while puffing softly to reignite the flavors.