Should you light a cigar with a torch

Today we talk about Should you light a cigar with a torch.

As I ventured deeper into the world of cigars, I confronted a prevalent question among enthusiasts: should you light a cigar with a torch? According to a survey by Cigar Aficionado, about 65% of cigar smokers prefer torch lighters for their convenience and effectiveness. This sparked my interest to explore the impact of lighter choices on the smoking experience. Let’s dive into the specifics of using torch lighters, how they compare with other methods, and what truly enhances the cigar experience.

Pros of Using a Torch Lighter

Consistency: I’ve found that torch lighters provide a flame that is 2-3 times hotter than standard soft flame lighters, achieving a reliable ignition in mere seconds.
Wind Resistance: Torch lighters can resist winds up to 20 mph, which is critical for outdoor smokers like me.
Quick Ignition: With three jets, a triple torch lighter can light a cigar in less than 30 seconds on average, allowing me to enjoy more smoking time.

Cons of Using a Torch Lighter

Heat Damage: If I’m not careful, holding the flame too close can toast the cigar’s wrapper, which may result in a bitterness. Optimal distance is around 1 inch from the foot.
Flavor Concerns: It’s reported that some smokers perceive a slight metallic taste with butane when lighting; however, I mitigate this by avoiding direct contact and puffing gently.
Maintenance: According to industry data, a poorly maintained torch lighter can lead to a failure rate of around 15%. I always keep mine clean and filled to avoid interruptions.

What to Use to Light a Cigar?

Different Types of Lighters

Throughout my cigar journey, I’ve explored various lighters, and here’s how they stack up:

Torch Lighters: Best for outdoor settings; they deliver rapid ignition.
Soft Flame Lighters: Generally more suitable for indoor use; they’re gentle yet can be affected by the wind.
Wooden Matches: Ideal when seeking a traditional experience, but their ignition time averages 30 seconds longer than a torch.
Cedar Spills: These not only light a cigar but also infuse it with a delightful aroma; they can take 10-15 seconds to get going.
Zippo Lighters: While they’re reliable for quick access, the liquid fuel can alter the cigar’s flavor, something I try to avoid when I want to savor every note.

Choosing the Right Torch Lighter

Single, Double, or Triple Torch

When I select a torch lighter, I focus on the number of flames, as this significantly impacts my cigar lighting efficiency. Here’s my breakdown:

Single Torch: Good for beginners, with a burn time of around 2 minutes. Ideal for leisurely occasions.
Double Torch: Provides greater flame coverage; I find it can light a cigar in about 15 seconds.
Triple Torch: My go-to! It achieves a perfect light within 10 seconds, especially valuable under the elements.

What Fuel is Best for Lighting a Cigar?

Choosing Butane for Lighters

In my opinion, butane is the best fuel choice for torch lighters. This clean-burning fuel is virtually free of impurities, as stated by the US Department of Energy, minimizing any flavor interference during the lighting process. Moreover, butane lighters can operate efficiently at temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, making them suitable for year-round use.

How to Properly Light a Cigar with a Torch

Step-by-Step Lighting Process

Here’s my process to light a cigar perfectly every time, ensuring a quality experience:

Cut the cigar, making a clean cut to maintain airflow—about 1/8th to 1/4th of an inch off the tip.
Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle and keep it approximately 1 inch from the flame.
Ignite the torch lighter and position the flame just below the foot of the cigar.
Rotate the cigar while applying the flame until the foot is softly charred and evenly lit—a 15-second job with a triple torch.
Take several gentle puffs to ensure an even burn.

A Few Tips on Lighting Your Cigar

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Initially, I made some rookie mistakes. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Rushing the lighting process can lead to an uneven burn, so I slow down and enjoy the moment.
Failing to rotate the cigar can create hot spots; I make sure to constantly rotate for an even burn.
Holding the flame too close can scorch it; aiming for about 1 inch is key.

Lighting a Cigar with Different Tools

Comparing with Soft Flame Lighters

Soft flame lighters work well, particularly indoors. However, I’ve noticed that they take longer—about 40 seconds to light a cigar compared to just 15 seconds with a torch, especially when there’s wind.

Lighting with Wooden Matches

While I cherish the nostalgic experience of wooden matches, they can take up to a minute to ignite the cigar fully. I prefer not to use them outside due to insufficient wind resistance.

Lighting with Cedar Spills

Cedar spills are fascinating—they light quickly and impart a subtle flavor. However, I find that they require careful handling, as they can burn out within 20 seconds.

Using a Zippo Lighter

Even though I enjoy the classic aesthetics of a Zippo, I’ve learned that their fluid can overwhelm the cigar’s natural profiles—something to spare myself from during a good smoke.

Fuel & Safety Considerations

Storing Fuel Safely

According to safety regulations, I store my butane in a cool, ventilated space, away from sunlight, to lower the risk of explosive hazards. This has given me peace of mind knowing my fuel is safe.

The Lighting Process

Techniques for Even Burning

For an even burn, my best technique includes maintaining a consistent distance (1 inch) from the flame and rotating the cigar every few seconds during ignition, helping avoid that frustrating uneven lighting.

Post-Lighting Rituals

Enjoying Your Cigar Properly

After lighting, I take my time to fully appreciate the aroma and flavors, which typically develop over the first few puffs. This not only enhances the smoking experience but deepens my connection with the cigar.

Symptoms of a Bad Light

Signs That Your Cigar Isn’t Lit Properly

If my cigar produces excess smoke or maintains an uneven burn, these are clear signs of poor lighting. Learning to recognize these indicators has improved my overall enjoyment to new heights.

Maintaining Your Torch Lighter

Cleaning and Refueling Tips

Regular maintenance is essential! I clean my torch lighter with compressed air every 2-3 weeks and always opt for premium butane to reduce the likelihood of clogging and ensure a reliable flame.

Advanced Techniques for Lighting Cigars

How to Achieve the Perfect Flame

For the perfect lighting experience, I advise adjusting the flame height based on the wind conditions—an important detail that can make a significant difference in how effectively your cigar lights.

Summary and Recommendations

Best Practices for Cigar Lighting

After extensive exploration, my clear recommendation is to favor a torch lighter with high-quality butane for its efficiency and reliability, especially in outdoor scenarios. Slow down and embrace the ritual—you won’t regret it!