Torches vs Classic Flame Lighters vs Matches

[CaptainSaint]

I know of many people with varying opinions when it comes to how to light your most prized possession. Personally, I use a torch but don't let the flame touch the cigar I use it like a warmer until it glows. My main reason for using a torch vs the other methods is simply because i find it easier to do. If my stick is wrapped in cedar I will light the cedar and use that to flame up but don't notice a difference in initial taste or what not.

Interested in how you light up, and if you notice a difference with any method in particular. I feel like non-torch users shy away due to the tendency to burn your cigar.

Cheers,

LD

 

[Zmilin]

I've used all those methods. Matches are my least favorite and recently, I've been using a soft flame to get lit then cutting (another thread about this). I have also don't this with a torch. I just won't use a soft flame that smells (Zippo old school type lighters).

 

[sofc]

Any way I can.

Prefer soft flame but usually take a minijet places if I'm smoking outside.

 

[herfdog]

none of the above. I prefer cedar spills.

They are free from the B&M! or your box.
When out of spills, I use matches. when out of matches, I use a soft flame. when out of soft flame, I use the zippo. when out of zippo, I don't smoke.

I can't properly light a cigar with a torch lighter without tasting burnt. So, I rarely use them. I'd need more practice, which won't come if I don't use it. Which won't happen until I get it good, which requires practice...

 

[Xavier Dredo]

none of the above. I prefer cedar spills.

They are free from the B&M! or your box.
When out of spills, I use matches. when out of matches, I use a soft flame. when out of soft flame, I use the zippo. when out of zippo, I don't smoke.

I can't properly light a cigar with a torch lighter without tasting burnt. So, I rarely use them. I'd need more practice, which won't come if I don't use it. Which won't happen until I get it good, which requires practice...

It's not that difficult, just don't get too close with the flame...

 

[herfdog]

Bic flame is about 1970F, while torch goes all the way up to 2600F - more odds of charring the foot. Plus, you can't see the actual flame. Not easy when trying to not touch it.

Now, I don't smoke cigars to rush things, but to enjoy and relax. I don't mind the extra time. Its part of the ceremonial.

 

[Mr. Guy]

I'll use all of the above based on my mood at the time. I do like to get the tip completely glowing before puffing, and not placing the flame back to the cigar when doing so. I don't know that it does anything different than puffing with the flame up close, but I enjoy doing it that way. I think I get better and more consistent burn lines this way, but never really spent the time to compare. Sometimes out on the golf course the wind forces me to puff and light at the same time, but as I said, I don't think that I notice any difference as far as taste goes.

 

[BigEasy]

I use soft flame for the initial light and a ronson jet for touch ups,

 

[daleo8803]

I use a torch for sticks. Easier than a soft flame for me.
Use match's for my pipes.

 

[herfdog]

I use soft flame for the initial light and a ronson jet for touch ups,

True that... the jet torch I use for touch ups. I even have a pistol lighter that is great at that.

 

[ZippoGeek]

I'm a torch guy. Fast and easy.

 

[danmdevries]

Used to torch, but all of my cheap torches have failed in some way. Bought a case of cheap disposable soft flame lighters, no complaints.

 

[daleo8803]

I'm Fast and easy.

That's what she said..... Lol

 

[W.B.]

Mainly a soft flame for me, I enjoy taking my time. A torch can be ok as well.

I try to keep to a butane fueled light. Matches and cedar spills pollute my enjoyment.

 

[Cigary43]

All of us get used to what is comfortable but I feel a soft flame (Xikar Exodus Soft Flame Wind Resistant ) is about as good as it gets. I like torches as well but keep the flame down and never let it touch the foot. Cedar spills ....I love em but they can be a bit of a pain when you want to get some fast.

 

[ZippoGeek]

That's what she said..... Lol

Hey O!

 

[Benjamin]

All of us get used to what is comfortable but I feel a soft flame (Xikar Exodus Soft Flame Wind Resistant ) is about as good as it gets. I like torches as well but keep the flame down and never let it touch the foot. Cedar spills ....I love em but they can be a bit of a pain when you want to get some fast.

I just ordered a Xikar EX Soft Flame and I can't wait to try it. I have a Xikar double torch that I like but it goes through fuel like crazy and I'd prefer a soft flame though I do smoke a lot outdoors. I feel these two will have me covered. Though I have been tempted to just buy a few BICs and call it a day.

 

[Tim H]

I use a single torch lighter. Just yesterday I picked up 5 more Ronson Jetlite lighters at Walmart for 3.57 each. Figure once spring comes around I will lose a few while fishing, frogging and catching snapping turtles.

 

[mdwest]

Just depends on whats readily available most of the time... Im really not all that picky..

I keep a couple of inexpensive soft flames in the truck.. so, if Im driving, they usually get hit by one of my soft flame cheapo lighters...

Ive got a variety of torches, soft flames, long matches, spills, etc.. at the house.. most of the time I just pick up whatever is closest/most convenient.. unless there is a reason for me to dig for something specific (high winds outside.. larger RG cigar... cigar I know on the front end I am probably going to have to do some maintenance on as I smoke it, etc..)..

 

[Ducttapegonewild]

I keep cedar spills, matches, soft flame, torches, pipe tools, nubber, swisher sweets (to light my drew estate cigars) a cutter, a punch, a large can of butane and an assortment of straws in my fanny pack...

I still prefer to use the torch...