Whether you’re new to the hobby or looking to up your cigar game to the next level, these essential tools are a must for cigar enjoyers of all levels.
Cutter
The most common type of cigar accessory, a cutter, is used to create an opening in the “head” of a cigar so that air can pass through.
If you have any experience with cigars, then you probably already own a cutter of some kind. The most common variety is the guillotine — a single or double-bladed device that creates a clean cut across the head.
Other varieties include the V-cut, punch cutter, and cigar scissors, all of which are specially designed for cigars of different ring gauges and fillings.
You can’t go wrong with any of these devices; however, the double-bladed guillotine is generally the best one to use, as it grants a greater level of control over the size of the opening.
Lighter/Torch
German chemist Johann Wolfgang Döbereiner is credited with inventing the first lighter in 1825. Döbereiner’s device probably wouldn’t be recognized as a lighter today; it resembled something closer to an old lamp or a bomb than the classic pocket lighter we’ve grown accustomed to.
The device’s purpose hasn’t changed much since 1825, and today there is no shortage of compact lighters to choose from. But which one is the best when it comes to cigars?
Cigar lighters come in three major varieties: piezo-spark butane, zippo-style wick, and disposable spark wheel. Stogies require something with a large enough flame that can also burn consistently so that the cigar has an even burn.
With this in mind, the third option, which includes disposable lighters from brands like Bic, is probably the worst. These lighters don’t have enough fuel to last long enough, and can’t be refilled, meaning you’ll be replacing them often.
Most cigar aficionados prefer something that can be refilled with either butane or lighter fluid. Zippos and other Zippos-like devices use a combination of spark wheels, flints, packing cotton, and wicks to generate their flame.
These types of lighters are a good option that offers a classic look. However, be aware that not all lighters use the same type of fuel.
Piezo-spark lighters — any kind of torch or soft flame lighter — only use butane, which is a purer fuel. As an all-purpose cigar lighter, these are probably the best option available. They’re easy to use, refillable, and have by far the strongest flame.
Even better, there’s no shortage of affordable, pocket-sized blowtorches out there. If you don’t have one already, be sure to pick one up on your next visit to the local smoke shop.
Humidor
A humidor is a type of cigar storage system designed to age a cigar over a long period of time. They can vary greatly in size, price, and technology, but even the most basic humidors comprise the same general components.
Humidifier
As you can probably guess from the name, a humidor’s chief function is maintaining a certain relative humidity level.
If cigars are stored in an overly dry environment, they shrivel up and lose their natural flavors and aromas. Conversely, too much moisture can also harm a cigar’s taste.
Humidors maintain a Goldilocks humidity level — not too dry, but not too damp. There are various ways to introduce moisture into a humidor’s interior.
A sponge soaked in water is the simplest, most low-tech way of regulating moisture. Other options include floral foam, crystal gel, silica beads, 2-way humidity control packets, and electronic humidifiers.