Anyone who has ever seen a humidor standing open, like a vast treasure vault, knows that cigars come in many different styles and sizes. Unlike many other things in life, both of these factors will have a singular effect on your enjoyment. For instance, the style and size of the cigar you choose will affect the taste of the cigar, the harshness of the smoke and even the temperature of the smoke you draw in from the cigar. Knowing a bit about the different cigar styles and sizes will help you know which you want to put your lighter to for your enjoyment.

Styles

Cylindrical – The most common cigar style is the cylindrical tube. These are usually the easiest to make and provide even airflow through the cigar’s body. The cap on these is usually rounded. Most cigar manufacturers offer this style of cigar.

Torpedo – The second type of cigar style is the torpedo. These are less common than cylindrical cigars, but provide a more focused airflow through the body, thanks to the tapered end. The torpedo shape features a funnel end, usually placed at the head (the cap), though some manufacturers place it at the foot, (the lit end).

Sizes

Knowing about how the size of a cigar affects the smoking experience can be very useful to know. The size of the cigar selected will determine several factors in regards to the experience of the cigar.

Length – Simply because they generally provide a cooler smoke and are somewhat milder, longer cigars are preferred by many. Unlike shorter cigars, longer cigars often lack harshness and are usually smoother tasting.

Diameter – The ring gauge or diameter of your cigar also plays a crucial role. The more thin a cigar is, the more harsh the smoke will be and the faster the cigar will burn. Alternately, a wide cigar will burn slower and the smoke will generally be smoother.

Fatter cigars are often priced higher. This is something to remember when contemplating adding to your collection. The higher cost is, obviously, a result in the increased tobacco leaves required to produce a larger cigar. All in all, the price increase is a result of getting more cigar.

Dave Sabot is the owner of an online specialty lighters store. With expert knowledge of cigar accessories, including cigar cutter lighters, Dave also owns a premier online humidors store.