For newer cigar smokers I have posted this link a few times. Highly recommended reading ....
A Beginner's Guide to Cigar Smoking
A few random thoughts:
- A regular guillotine cutter is usually fine.
- Toast the foot of the cigar before lighting. (use a match to heat the tip of the cigar before lighting)
- Try not to inhale any flame into your cigar. Typically I can light my cigar with a torch lighter without puffing at all.
- Regarding lighters. I like a single torch light for lighting and correcting any runs.
- The double/triple flames are great for windy days though.
- Whenever I can get away with it, I like to use cigar matches.
- It's not a cigarette. When done, don't blunt it out. Just sit it down let and it die a natural death.
- Ideally you should puff every 30-60 seconds.
No need to buy a fancy humidor. (my wife wishes I'd take that advice!). A quality ziplock bag with a 67% Boveda pack is all you need.
I'm sure there is more, but this all off of the top of my head.
As far as what to buy? Sites like Cigar International and JR CIgars often have grab-bags of great sticks for various prices. I'll keep an eye on those sites and post the occasional deal when I see it.
Don't let yourself get caught up in thinking it's all about price. I've tasted some really expense sticks that are not nearly as tasty sticks that were in the $10 to $15 range. A great example of that is Davidoff. They market themselves as a luxury stick, and they are very very good....but there are a couple of lines they have (Escuro comes to mind) that taste like moldy mushrooms to me. Some folks love them though....it's all about what tastes good to you!
Regarding Cubans (because people always ask). In almost every case, if someone gives you a Cuban they got from a friend who got it in Mexico....it's likely fake. Trust me on this. Same goes with most websites claiming to sell Cubans. Don't let yourself get wrapped around the axle on these things! Let me know if you want to try/buy legit Cubans and I'll set you up....learn to walk before you run though, good Cubans are a slippery slope! $$$
@DA SWO - same offer goes to you as I made to
@Sendero . PM me an address and I will send you a care package of some of my favorite sticks!
