How to Use a Cigar Lighter
Articles - Lifestyle
While a cheap cigar deserves no more thought when being lit than does a cigarette, a fine cigar requires a bit of special attention. Lighting a cigar is a multi-stage process that involves first warming the tobacco and then lighting it in a way that provides an even ember at the foot. Of course, the first step in lighting any cigar is trimming off the cap so that one may draw through the stogie in the first place!
by DaveSabot


While a cheap cigar deserves no more thought when being lit than does a cigarette, a fine cigar requires a bit of special attention. Lighting a cigar is a multi-stage process that involves first warming the tobacco and then lighting it in a way that provides an even ember at the foot. Of course, the first step in lighting any cigar is trimming off the cap so that one may draw through the stogie in the first place!

One starts by using the cutting implement. About 1/8" from the end of the cap, right around where the shoulder begins to even out, cut the cigar. The guillotine-style cutters are usually preferred by smokers because of their remarkably clean cut. For very wide cigars, a guillotine with an angled blade will provide more effective cutting action and a cleaner end. Scissor-type cutters and punch cutters are generally not preferred by true fans of cigars.

After the cigar has been trimmed, it needs to be warmed at the foot. This is done by rotating the cigar over the lighter flame without actually touching the wrapper or filler. The cigar should be brought up to an even temperature so that it lights in the best possible fashion. This is called "toasting" the cigar. Without this step, the cigar will light very unevenly.

After the entirety of the cigar has been lit, take it out of the mouth and inspect the foot. There should be an even ember at the end of the cigar. If not, one can blow on the cigar to even out the ember or simply reapply their lighter to those parts of the ember that are not burning correctly. If all seems good, all one has to do is enjoy their cigar.

Cigar cutter lighters are the most convenient implement for this process. The cutters allow the smoker to perform the entire process with only one tool. These implements, however, are very sharp. When they are stored in a pocket, one must be certain that the device is closed and locked. Most cigar smokers prefer butane lighters. Fluid-filled lighters tend to give the cigar a chemical taste. Butane burns cleanly enough where this is not at all an issue. One may also wish to try cedar strips for lighting their cigar.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.

Dave Sabot is the owner of specialty butane lighters store. With expert knowledge of cigar accessories, including nibo group lighters, Dave also owns an online humidors store.