Any cigar aficionado knows that cigar accessories can make or break your smoking experience. While the cigar itself is the star of the show, having the right tools and humidors helps bring out the true flavors and aromas in your stogies. If you’re looking to enhance your cigar enjoyment, here are some must-have accessories.
Cigar Cutters: A quality cigar cutter is one of the most important accessories you can own. There are various types of cutters, including straight/double blade, V-cut, and punch cutters. Straight/double cutters provide a clean cut across the cap. V-cutters slice a wedge shape into the cap. Punch cutters push a small hole into the cap. Each style has pros and cons you’ll need to consider to find your preference. Just make sure whatever cutter you choose gives a smooth, even cut, otherwise it can unravel the cigar.
Humidors: Humidors are essential for cigar storage and maintenance. They keep your cigars at the optimum humidity level between 65-70%. Too dry and the cigars will crack and smoke harshly. Too damp and they can develop mold. Humidors come in a range of styles from small desktop models to large cabinet-style walk-ins. Wood and glass are classic materials. Make sure to use humidifier beads/packs and a hygrometer to monitor humidity. Quality humidors will regulate humidity while also being perfectly airtight.
Cigar Cases and Tubes Carrying your cigars around requires proper protection, which is where cases and tubes come in. Leather or aluminum cigar cases have sleeves or clips to hold several cigars at once. They provide padding and structure to prevent damage. For individual cigars, an aluminum cigar tube is ideal. It seals the ends to lock in humidity and prevent odors. When traveling or heading to the cigar lounge, a case or tube is a must to keep your cigars in flawless smoking condition.
Lighters: A torch lighter efficiently lights cigars and allows controlling the flame. Butane soft flame lighters don’t provide enough heat. Look for a torch lighter with an angled flame designed specifically for cigars. Big tank capacity, adjustable flame size, and punch/cutter built-in are useful features. Reliable ignition each time is a must.
Ashtrays: A dedicated cigar ashtray is far superior to makeshift alternatives. Deep ashtrays prevent tip-over accidents. Wide surfaces provide ample space. Slots or holes let air flow to keep cigars lit. Materials like crystal, marble, and wood make for nice looking ashtrays with some heft. Consider a model with an adjustable ring to hold cigars in place.
Accessories for cigar enthusiasts are must-haves, not just nice-to-haves. With the right humidor, cutter, lighter, case, and ashtray, you’ll be set up for maximum cigar enjoyment. Do your research to find accessories that work for your budget and needs. Pay attention to materials, durability, ease of use, design, and performance to make choices you won’t regret. Your cigar accessories should enhance, not hinder, your ideal smoking experience.
