Beginner Questions (Ask Them Here!)

[fbillings14]

Cigar etiquette; what is kosher what is not? Im not new to cigars but am new to smoke clubs, what is ok to do and what is no ok to do what is ok to talk about wat is not ok, and what is a absoluit nono!

[lightning9191]

have a glass top humidor that seems to stay between 61 and 65 humidity with heartfelt 65 beads in it, do i just contribute the fluctuation to the great glass top or be worried, also where should i place the humidity tube for best results.

My cigars feel pretty firm which i tend to worry about didnt know if it was from the lower humidity and tempature around 64 in the humi or if i should do something different.

I wouldn't worry about that swing...it's not that big of a swing and it could be due to the glass top. Place the tube anywhere and it should do it's work. I always try to put mine towards the top as opposed to burying it....cause I believe it might work a little better more exposed. I'm not sure about your firm cigars. How do they smoke?

[Ty Atkinson]

they seem to be fine, no burn issues, and no harsh tastes.

[Chris.]

Ty, I'd say the glass top sounds like it has a good seal. My coolerdor fluctuates that much. I think it has more to do with temperature changes throughout the day than anything else.

[NCRadioMan]

they seem to be fine, no burn issues, and no harsh tastes.

No worries then. :tu

[T.G]

Cigar etiquette; what is kosher what is not? Im not new to cigars but am new to smoke clubs, what is ok to do and what is no ok to do what is ok to talk about wat is not ok, and what is a absoluit nono!

Common courtesy and sense prevail here.

Unless you are paying a membership fee, always buy some cigars from the facility. If you are paying a membership fee, you should still buy a few cigars from them periodically. If you bring in your own cigars to smoke, even after buying theirs, be discrete, don't wave a cigar that can't be bought there in the staffs face (take the band off after lighting). If the facility doesn't have a liquor license, don't bring your own alcohol in without checking with the owner/manager first. If you have some cigars that they don't sell there, consider gifting one every now and then to the owner/manager/staff, it can go a long way.

Oh, and smoking infused and flavored cigars are usually frowned upon.

[issues]

Common courtesy and sense prevail here.

Unless you are paying a membership fee, always buy some cigars from the facility. If you are paying a membership fee, you should still buy a few cigars from them periodically. If you bring in your own cigars to smoke, even after buying theirs, be discrete, don't wave a cigar that can't be bought there in the staffs face (take the band off after lighting). If the facility doesn't have a liquor license, don't bring your own alcohol in without checking with the owner/manager first. If you have some cigars that they don't sell there, consider gifting one every now and then to the owner/manager/staff, it can go a long way.

Oh, and smoking infused and flavored cigars are usually frowned upon.

Sound advice.


Also, try not to talk about other B&Ms you frequent or online catalogs. I know a guy who was banned from a place for discussing another lounge to customers.

[fbillings14]

Ya I learned the no acid rule real quick the first time I lit one up. The guys there were great thow really introduced me to other cigars that I enjoy much more then I ever did a acid, they even donated a few sticks to me after the demanded I put it out. I think that is how I got my hands on my first Olivia V.

[Gary]

So, does nicotine raise or lower your blood sugar? I see people on this forum mentioning that it lowers your blood sugar, but when I search the internet, nicotine seems to raise your blood sugar. I know I must be missing something here.

[NCRadioMan]

So, does nicotine raise or lower your blood sugar? I see people on this forum mentioning that it lowers your blood sugar, but when I search the internet, nicotine seems to raise your blood sugar. I know I must be missing something here.

When we first start a cigar, the blood-sugar level rises but since it takes a while to smoke a cigar that supply slowly diminishes. Then nicotine circulating in the bloodstream prior to metabolism tends to collect in the pancreas, causing the pancreas to produce more insulin than normal. The excess amount of insulin causes blood-sugar to drop, resulting in nausea, high blood pressure, and other undesireable effects that we sometimes experience with cigars. Consumption of sugar gives the insulin something to break down, causing blood sugar to rise and mitigating the short-term effects of nicotine on the pancreas. So, the fastest & best antidote to nicotine toxicity is sugar.

[Gary]

ah, great answer thanks! :tu

Funny though, I did have a good lunch, smoked my cigar (an Excalibur 1066 Dark Knight III) soon after that I took a long nap. When I woke up, I felt a bit shaky, I then ate something, drank a bottle of water, felt fine shortly after. I guess my blood sugar was still low despite my lunch.

I'm still a newbie at this, been at this for a week or so, probably on my 9th cigar, this is really the first time I felt I had a minor problem with it.


When we first start a cigar, the blood-sugar level rises but since it takes a while to smoke a cigar that supply slowly diminishes. Then nicotine circulating in the bloodstream prior to metabolism tends to collect in the pancreas, causing the pancreas to produce more insulin than normal. The excess amount of insulin causes blood-sugar to drop, resulting in nausea, high blood pressure, and other undesireable effects that we sometimes experience with cigars. Consumption of sugar gives the insulin something to break down, causing blood sugar to rise and mitigating the short-term effects of nicotine on the pancreas. So, the fastest & best antidote to nicotine toxicity is sugar.

[Chris.]

Smoke three back to back. ;)

[Gary]

Don't tempt me :)

I did smoke 2 back to back once, and felt fine, ok, a minor buzz, but pleasant a buzz. This one just hit me wrong.

Smoke three back to back. ;)

[Chris.]

First time I smoked three in a row, I threw up in my friends car. He couldn't pull over fast enough. :(

[0002S]

What happens at my 100th post?

[icehog3]

What happens at my 100th post?

You get a clown.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/clown-1.jpg

[junkinduck]

I'm not at 100 yet but y'all can hold the clown when I get there. Clowns scare me.

[Whee]

You get a clown.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/clown-1.jpg

Jesus, that's worse than the BVO.:r

[icehog3]

I'm not at 100 yet but y'all can hold the clown when I get there. Clowns scare me.

Oh, I got a 36 post clown for you, Don.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/pennywise2.jpg

[junkinduck]

Oh, I got a 36 post clown for you, Don.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/pennywise2.jpg

I gotta go to bed on that. nightmare city.

[icehog3]

I gotta go to bed on that. nightmare city.

Would you prefer an evil leprachaun? :D

[whodeeni]

What does it take to be taken serious around here. I've
sent messages to Smokin Gator, posted in the newbie trade section
all to no avail. I haven't gotten any response from anyone.

Id like to get going. I have a high trader rating/great reputation
established on botl.org (under the same username)
and would like to start developing one here.

Can anyone ("Mods") help me out here?

[Chris.]

Elaborate please. What do you mean by taken seriously?

[icehog3]

What does it take to be taken serious around here. I've
sent messages to Smokin Gator, posted in the newbie trade section
all to no avail. I haven't gotten any response from anyone.

Id like to get going. I have a high trader rating/great reputation
established on botl.org (under the same username)
and would like to start developing one here.

Can anyone ("Mods") help me out here?

Your post was the last post on a page of 40, SG might just have missed it. I bumped it so I am sure he will get you an the waiting list.

Patience is a virtue. ;)

[G G]

Oh, I got a 36 post clown for you, Don.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/pennywise2.jpg
Pennywise the clown is the clowns clown.:tu

[whodeeni]

Just based on past experience, i know that there is a certain level of distrust that is inherent when a newbie wishes to engage in a trade because he/she hasn't proven themselves to be reliable as to keeping their word, following through with mailing out trades, or putting quality cigars that are even worthy of being traded.

I never made a big stink about my reputation on other boards, but its been about a week or so that i've been expressing an interest on buildingup my feedback starting w/ the newbie trade (you can't engage in any other sales or trades before you participate in this particular thread) and to date, hadn't gotten any response whatsoever, so i felt neglected, and that prompted me to post on the beginner questions thread....

Elaborate please. What do you mean by taken seriously?

[Smokin Gator]

My apologies brother... I simply dropped the ball on this one. It was certainly nothing to do with you. I simply didn't get you on the list when I should have. I just posted an update and you are ready to go.

What does it take to be taken serious around here. I've
sent messages to Smokin Gator, posted in the newbie trade section
all to no avail. I haven't gotten any response from anyone.

Id like to get going. I have a high trader rating/great reputation
established on botl.org (under the same username)
and would like to start developing one here.

Can anyone ("Mods") help me out here?

[icehog3]

Just based on past experience, i know that there is a certain level of distrust that is inherent when a newbie wishes to engage in a trade because he/she hasn't proven themselves to be reliable as to keeping their word, following through with mailing out trades, or putting quality cigars that are even worthy of being traded.

I never made a big stink about my reputation on other boards, but its been about a week or so that i've been expressing an interest on buildingup my feedback starting w/ the newbie trade (you can't engage in any other sales or trades before you participate in this particular thread) and to date, hadn't gotten any response whatsoever, so i felt neglected, and that prompted me to post on the beginner questions thread....

As I suspected, Smokin Gator just missed your post on the NST.

As far as the "distrust" scenario, why would we have an NST, where all the 1st time traders are "Newbies", if we didn't trust newbies? :confused:

[whodeeni]

No problem brother.... Im very busy and i'm sure you are as well...

Thanks for responding in kind!

My apologies brother... I simply dropped the ball on this one. It was certainly nothing to do with you. I simply didn't get you on the list when I should have. I just posted an update and you are ready to go.

[subido234]

My understanding is that by toasting the foot it is easier to ensure an even burn throughout the cigar.

Right.

[bobarian]

Right.

What a freaking awesome first post! Thank you for adding such great content to our forum. :rolleyes:

[pnoon]

What a freaking awesome first post! Thank you for adding such great content to our forum. :rolleyes:

Easy there, Grasshopper. :)
While I might agree with your assessment, his "content" could be considered on par with the "content" from others. :2

[Chris.]

Peter, I agree, but his reply was to a post on the first page...

[Adriftpanda]

What a freaking awesome first post! Thank you for adding such great content to our forum. :rolleyes:

:r:r:r

[pnoon]

Peter, I agree, but his reply was to a post on the first page...

Let's see. Shall we dissect the quality of your posts or those of others?

All I am saying is don't be so quick to jump on anyone for an odd first post. This one had no malice, no harm, no spam. Let's wait and see. If I had to bet, I would say that this user will not turn out to be a contributing member here at CA. But let's just wait and see.

I'd be happy to discuss this further with you (or anyone else), Chris. But let's converse via PM and not clutter an otherwise useful thread.

[Chris.]

:tu

[bobarian]

Let's see. Shall we dissect the quality of your posts or those of others?

All I am saying is don't be so quick to jump on anyone for an odd first post. This one had no malice, no harm, no spam. Let's wait and see. If I had to bet, I would say that this user will not turn out to be a contributing member here at CA. But let's just wait and see.

I'd be happy to discuss this further with you (or anyone else), Chris. But let's converse via PM and not clutter an otherwise useful thread.

Noted, thx Peter.

[Rakshas]

:ss

[pnoon]

:ss

:confused:
Do you have a question to ask?

[Chris.]

:r welcome to the asylum guys!!!

[Rakshas]

Beginner question:
If you had a friend who could offer you any Cuban Cigar you wanted, what would you ask him for?

[N2Advnture]

Romeo y Julieta Clemenceaus (discontinued in 80's) :)

[Chris.]

From curren production I'd say an 08 PSD4

[lightning9191]

Ask him to recommend you one.....he pry knows what is smoking good and knows something of your tastes.

[icehog3]

Ask him to recommend you one.....he pry knows what is smoking good and knows something of your tastes.

:tpd:

[Rakshas]

His initial recommendation was Cohiba Siglio VI

[tuxpuff]

His initial recommendation was Cohiba Siglio VI

:dr That works!

[TrickNick]

His initial recommendation was Cohiba Siglio VI

Quite the excellent smoke!

[The EVP]

Beginner question:
If you had a friend who could offer you any Cuban Cigar you wanted, what would you ask him for?

Davidoff or Dunhill

[junkinduck]

Beginner question:
If you had a friend who could offer you any Cuban Cigar you wanted, what would you ask him for?

I have not had this problem yet.

[icehog3]

Beginner question:
If you had a friend who could offer you any Cuban Cigar you wanted, what would you ask him for?

1492, 1994 or Estupendo...whichever he had more of. ;)

[Powers]

Got a noob question:

What is "plume" on a cigar? How does it come about and is it a bad thing?

Thanks in advance guys!

:ss

[NCRadioMan]

Plume happens when the oils of the cigar crystallize on the wrapper and it is a good indication that the cigars have been kept in proper conditions. However, some cigars plume fairly easily after a few years and others never will. It does not affect taste.

The only cigars I have that have any indication of plume are some special release Pepin Blue Label lanceros from '07. I have other lanceros in the same box that have no indication of plume.

[Powers]

Plume happens when the oils of the cigar crystallize on the wrapper and it is a good indication that the cigars have been kept in proper conditions. However, some cigars plume fairly easily after a few years and others never will. It does not affect taste.

The only cigars I have that have any indication of plume are some special release Pepin Blue Label lanceros from '07. I have other lanceros in the same box that have no indication of plume.

Thanks!

:salute:

[Chris.]

I've seen plume on about two of my cigars. Ever. Dont confuse plume with mold. Many b&ms may try to pass off mold as plume. Don't be fooled.

[KenyanSandBoa]

I've seen plume on about two of my cigars. Ever. Dont confuse plume with mold. Many b&ms may try to pass off mold as plume. Don't be fooled.

I'll add a noob question as well...is there a clear distiction between plume and mold? I've noticed that before, but never had a clue as to what it was.

[T.G]

I'll add a noob question as well...is there a clear distiction between plume and mold? I've noticed that before, but never had a clue as to what it was.

Mold will be patchy, fuzzy, matte, have depth to it, form unevely, can come in any number of colors: white, yellow, brown, black, green, blue. Plume will be a very even whiteish almost crystal like "dust" that will cover the wrapper evenly.

[e-man67]

All of Elderboys cigars have green fur on them and he swears it's plume...it makes me sneeze...it looks like astroturf...:r:r:r

(I love to mess with Dan)

[skier171]

Noob Question: When it comes to freezing...how many of you freeze? and would it be bad to extend the duration of all the periods (12,24-48, 12-24)...I may have gone a little crazy on the devil site...in turn causing me to purchase a new humi and I need to season it to hold my incoming purchase?

[14holestogie]

Every stick in my house goes through a 72 hour minimum freeze before it sees the humis.

[lightning9191]

I do not freeze. You'll find people in both camps here. It's a personal choice. Read up on some of the threads concerning freezing and make your decision.

[Chris.]

You have to be very careful when you freeze them or you will damage and potentially ruin them.

[lightning9191]

Here is two good threads on freezing (I was too lazy to search for them last night):

Cigar Freezing Questions (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=14690&highlight=freezing)

How to Freeze and the Science behind it (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=7919&highlight=freeze)

[skier171]

Thanks very much guys, looks like ive got to go get some freezer bags tomorrow and throw the shipment that comes in tomorrow in the freezer.

[Robert Mabona]

I'll add a noob question as well...is there a clear distiction between plume and mold? I've noticed that before, but never had a clue as to what it was.

i find the easiest way to distinguish mold from plume is that plume can be wiped off and not leave a trace. god of fires in the tube tend to be plume farms.

[bing]

This is just a question of CA vernacular, but when someone talks about the 'devil site,' to which site are they referring. I tried looking in the Terms and Acronyms thread, but it wasn't there.
TIA.

[Noomis]

Cigarbid.com

[chippewastud79]

This is just a question of CA vernacular, but when someone talks about the 'devil site,' to which site are they referring. I tried looking in the Terms and Acronyms thread, but it wasn't there.
TIA.

The 'Devil Site' is http://www.cigarbid.com. And there is a reason that people call it the Devil, hide your credit card now. :tu

[bing]

Thanks, gents. I'll do my best to avoid it until I have a proper size humidor and a bank account to match. Heck, I'm having enough trouble with CI. On the other hand, if I overstock now, it will force me to let some of them age. :D

[issues]

Thanks, gents. I'll do my best to avoid it until I have a proper size humidor and a bank account to match. Heck, I'm having enough trouble with CI. On the other hand, if I overstock now, it will force me to let some of them age. :D

Or force you to get a bigger humidor! :D

Once you start down that slope, it is hard to slow down...

:ss

[bscottskangum]

I have a question that is pretty newbish. Does anyone else start salivating/drooling when they put a cigar in their mouth?
I don't do it continuously, just when I first put the cigar in my mouth before and while lighting it. Just curious.

[issues]

I have a question that is pretty newbish. Does anyone else start salivating/drooling when they put a cigar in their mouth?
I don't do it continuously, just when I first put the cigar in my mouth before and while lighting it. Just curious.

Yes it happens to me often...

:dr

Dry-lipping a cigar is quite difficult for me.

[Kreth]

Does anyone else start salivating/drooling when they put a cigar in their mouth?
Hell, sometimes I start drooling when I see pics of a cigar here. :r
Posted via Mobile Device

[Razorhog]

Here is my beginner question: How important is storage temperature?

My vinotemp stopped working, but holds humidity like a champ. Living in Arkansas means some hot, humid summers. My house gets up to 80 (programmable thermostat) in the summer during the day.
My main concern of course is beetles, but I closely inspect any sticks before they go in, is that good enough? I guess there is the off chance of an egg being rolled in the cigar....however, cigars are not temperature controlled on their journey from the store to my house.

[chippewastud79]

Here is my beginner question: How important is storage temperature?

My vinotemp stopped working, but holds humidity like a champ. Living in Arkansas means some hot, humid summers. My house gets up to 80 (programmable thermostat) in the summer during the day.
My main concern of course is beetles, but I closely inspect any sticks before they go in, is that good enough? I guess there is the off chance of an egg being rolled in the cigar....however, cigars are not temperature controlled on their journey from the store to my house.

Any prolonged temperatures of over 70 degrees and you are playing with the likelyhood of beetles. Find the coolest place in the house to help in the warm summers. Insepction or not, unless you are 100% certain every egg has been iradicated (unlikely by a simple inspection), I wouldn't chance my sticks at any temperature above 70 for a period longer than 24 hours. :2

[NCRadioMan]

I have a question that is pretty newbish. Does anyone else start salivating/drooling when they put a cigar in their mouth?
I don't do it continuously, just when I first put the cigar in my mouth before and while lighting it. Just curious.

You're user name should be Pavlov. :r

[bing]

Or force you to get a bigger humidor! :D

Once you start down that slope, it is hard to slow down...

:ss

I've survived the last four years by just picking up a handful of cigars at a time. Made the mistake of getting on CI about two weeks ago and have already ordered three 10 packs. And it doesn't help that my best friend and I let each other know when we're missing a daily deal. So that slope you mentioned, I found the front edge of it. :wo

[Chris.]

Thanks, gents. I'll do my best to avoid it until I have a proper size humidor and a bank account to match. Heck, I'm having enough trouble with CI. On the other hand, if I overstock now, it will force me to let some of them age. :D

Cbid sells humidors too ;)

[bing]

Cbid sells humidors too ;)

The dark side is strong with this site :ss

[kenstogie]

I have a question that is pretty newbish. Does anyone else start salivating/drooling when they put a cigar in their mouth?
I don't do it continuously, just when I first put the cigar in my mouth before and while lighting it. Just curious.

Pavlov's Classic conditioning anyone?

[kenstogie]

Thanks, gents. I'll do my best to avoid it until I have a proper size humidor and a bank account to match. Heck, I'm having enough trouble with CI. On the other hand, if I overstock now, it will force me to let some of them age. :D

Coolers are cheap work great as humidors and are easy to hide from significant others. ;) Plus they keep the temp more consistant. :tu

[colinb913]

Well, it pains me to say that I have a newb question so here goes.. When you guys purge, how hard do you *ahem* blow?.. I see pictures of flames at the end of the cigar, I never get that. Just lots and lots of smoke. Once I *ahem* blew so hard that the ash fell off, but that hasn't happened since.. So how hard does one have to exhale *aha!* to purge?

[NCRadioMan]

You hold a lighters flame to the end of the cigar then blow. You can't get a flame by just blowing through the cigar alone. Then, keep blowing till the flame dies.

[colinb913]

:bh Ohh! That makes sense now... :bh

[andrew]

You hold a lighters flame to the end of the cigar then blow. You can't get a flame by just blowing through the cigar alone. Then, keep blowing till the flame dies.

I've never heard of this. What is the benifit?

[bobarian]

I've never heard of this. What is the benifit?

Sometimes a cigar can get an off taste part of the way through. By purging or blowing back through the coal, you burn off excess tar and other contaminants.
By using a lighter you get a nice light show. "Oooh, pretty colors":D

[Rabidsquirrel]

Don't try it on a windy day with a particularly short cigar. 'Nuff said.

[theonlybear4CORT]

Sometimes a cigar can get an off taste part of the way through. By purging or blowing back through the coal, you burn off excess tar and other contaminants.
By using a lighter you get a nice light show. "Oooh, pretty colors":D

But Bob what's what you said when I purged @ Huy's house remember
http://photography.nationalgeographic.com/staticfiles/NGS/Shared/StaticFiles/Photography/Images/POD/a/aurora-borealis-960261-sw.jpg

[Wolfgang]

Which end do I light? :r

[Chris.]

:bh Ohh! That makes sense now... :bh

The flame is an indicator of the ammount of ammonia in the cigar. I usually blow for a couple second then touch the foot with the flame for a second and it will flare up. Dont blow through more than a few seconds though, if you've really been enjoying the cigar. It tends to change the flavor a bit.:2

[T.G]

The flame is an indicator of the ammount of ammonia in the cigar. I usually blow for a couple second then touch the foot with the flame for a second and it will flare up. Dont blow through more than a few seconds though, if you've really been enjoying the cigar. It tends to change the flavor a bit.:2

That's only one component of many and it's not a very accurate indicator of quantity, but just a general indicator of it's presence, and only then if you get the proper flame kernel color for ammonia burnoff - you could be burning off one of the many other compounds present, hence why you get multicolor flames.

[theonlybear4CORT]

I thought it was tar that made the flame light up.

[T.G]

I thought it was tar that made the flame light up.

Tar is most definitely one of the components that is being burned off/causes the effect. While tar is not the only component being burned off, I would venture to guess that tar is probably the primary component though.

[Chris.]

really? tar being higher on the list of combustibles in the cigar than ammonia? I dunno man. I've purged cigars before and hit the torch to it and not gotten flames. and I mean this would be the first time purging a cigar halfway through or so. I usually dont purge unless the ammo 'flavor' gets too strong...

[T.G]

really? tar being higher on the list of combustibles in the cigar than ammonia? I dunno man. I've purged cigars before and hit the torch to it and not gotten flames. and I mean this would be the first time purging a cigar halfway through or so. I usually dont purge unless the ammo 'flavor' gets too strong...

And where exactly is all this of ammonia hiding, Chris?

It ain't liquid, it sure as hell isn't solid, so where, oh where, is this "massive quantity" of ammonia GAS you claim is in the cigar hiding?

[Chris.]

I didn't say it was a massive quantity, but it sure is going to travel to the foot of the cigar quicker than TAR. You and everyone knows that ammonia is present in cigars as a part of aging and fermentation. I think you need to calm down a bit Adam.

[pnoon]

Take it offline, fellas. This is supposed to be place to answer questions - not a display for your bickering.

[T.G]

Not bickering Peter, just trying to make Chris think about part of the answer a bit for himself before I spell it out.

The ammonia is present in the leaf, as you note, I've always said it is a component, and during combustion, it comes out at a rate proportional with that of the burn rate of the cigar. But it doesn't pocket or collect as you smoke the cigar. The most that could happen is that a small amount could be re-absorbed into the leaf as you draw through the cigar, but once absorbed, you won't be able to "blow it out of the cigar". If this were the case, you could take an under fermented ammonia laden cigar and blow through it a few times and there would magically be no ammonia.

Now, tar and some of the other impurities, on the other hand, are a semi-solid sludge that comes out as the leaf is heated, prior to combustion, and it doesn't really go away but does collect just forward of the heat source (you can't really see it on a tobacco leaf without magnification, but light one end of a 2x4 and observe the area just forward of the flame and you can get an approximation of what is going on). Thing is, it's pooling on a porous surface - so as moves up the leaf, it builds up and leaves deposits - by blowing back through the cigar and the application of flame to the foot, you are forcing this sludge into the fire to be burned off.

[pnoon]

I think you need to calm down a bit Adam.

just trying to make Chris think about part of the answer a bit for himself before I spell it out.



At the very least, take it to another thread. The question was asked and answered quite a few posts back.

[Chris.]

really? tar being higher on the list of combustibles in the cigar than ammonia? I dunno man. I've purged cigars before and hit the torch to it and not gotten flames. and I mean this would be the first time purging a cigar halfway through or so. I usually dont purge unless the ammo 'flavor' gets too strong...

Not bickering Peter, just trying to make Chris think about part of the answer a bit for himself before I spell it out.

The ammonia is present in the leaf, as you note, I've always said it is a component, and during combustion, it comes out at a rate proportional with that of the burn rate of the cigar. But it doesn't pocket or collect as you smoke the cigar. The most that could happen is that a small amount could be re-absorbed into the leaf as you draw through the cigar, but once absorbed, you won't be able to "blow it out of the cigar". If this were the case, you could take an under fermented ammonia laden cigar and blow through it a few times and there would magically be no ammonia.

Now, tar and some of the other impurities, on the other hand, are a semi-solid sludge that comes out as the leaf is heated, prior to combustion, and it doesn't really go away but does collect just forward of the heat source (you can't really see it on a tobacco leaf without magnification, but light one end of a 2x4 and observe the area just forward of the flame and you can get an approximation of what is going on). Thing is, it's pooling on a porous surface - so as moves up the leaf, it builds up and leaves deposits - by blowing back through the cigar and the application of flame to the foot, you are forcing this sludge into the fire to be burned off.

That was the kind of answer I was hoping for when I posted that. Thank you.

[T.G]

Chris, we're cool brother - sorry if my earlier post came across as kind of douchebaggy, that wasn't my aim. I should have phrased it better and less cynically.

[bonjing]

When putting boxes away for aging, do you need to put in a humidification device or do the ziplock baggies breath enough?

[NCRadioMan]

When putting boxes away for aging, do you need to put in a humidification device or do the ziplock baggies breath enough?
You actually don't want them to breathe too much. Less air flow = slower and better aging. They should be fine.

[bonjing]

Wow that was quick! ! ! Thanks NCRadioMan, so I just let them acclimate then they're good to zip-up and forget about them?

[Chris.]

The humidipacks that sometimes come with cigar orders(the ones with 'reverse osmosis' packaging that are not reusable and are disposable)...Do they do anything once they dry up and get stiff, or should you just toss them out at that point?

[NCRadioMan]

Wow that was quick! ! ! Thanks NCRadioMan, so I just let them acclimate then they're good to zip-up and forget about them?

Yep. That's what I do. :tu

[pnoon]

The humidipacks that sometimes come with cigar orders(the ones with 'reverse osmosis' packaging that are not reusable and are disposable)...Do they do anything once they dry up and get stiff, or should you just toss them out at that point?

Toss 'em.

[bobarian]

Toss 'em.

Au contraire, oh wise and old one!:r

If they are the Boveda or Fuente packets they can be rehydrated and reused. Get a medium sized tupperware or other plastic container place the pack in the bottom with a small sponge that has been moistened with distilled water. Seal the container and leave it for a few days. Presto chango! The packs become rehydrated! :2

[T.G]

If they are the Boveda or Fuente packets they can be rehydrated and reused. Get a medium sized tupperware or other plastic container place the pack in the bottom with a small sponge that has been moistened with distilled water. Seal the container and leave it for a few days. Presto chango! The packs become rehydrated! :2

:tpd:

(Bob, I've been saying that about recharging the fuente/boveda packs for years too)

Chris, don't let them dry up to a hard or "saltine cracker" like state. You want to try and rejuvinate them while they are still moist and somewhat pliable. If you wait until they are hard and dried up, you will probably not be able to bring them back fully.

[bobarian]

:tpd:

(Bob, I've been saying that about recharging the fuente/boveda packs for years too)

Chris, don't let them dry up to a hard or "saltine cracker" like state. You want to try and rejuvinate them while they are still moist and somewhat pliable. If you wait until they are hard and dried up, you will probably not be able to bring them back fully.

Even crispy ones can be rehydrated. Just pulled one out of the tupperware today. It had been sitting at the bottom of a cooler for about six months. :2

[T.G]

Even crispy ones can be rehydrated. Just pulled one out of the tupperware today. It had been sitting at the bottom of a cooler for about six months. :2

I've had problems with the crispy ones Bob. Not that they don't come back, but they take _forever_ to do so and never seem to fully come back, but almost. Hence why I always advise to not let them get to that point before recharging.

[pnoon]

The humidipacks that sometimes come with cigar orders(the ones with 'reverse osmosis' packaging that are not reusable and are disposable)...Do they do anything once they dry up and get stiff, or should you just toss them out at that point?

Toss 'em.

Au contraire, oh wise and old one!:r

If they are the Boveda or Fuente packets they can be rehydrated and reused. Get a medium sized tupperware or other plastic container place the pack in the bottom with a small sponge that has been moistened with distilled water. Seal the container and leave it for a few days. Presto chango! The packs become rehydrated! :2

I stand by my post.

We'll agree to disagree, Brother.

The Bovedas may be rechargeable but the post I replied to made no mention of that.

[Chris.]

Well, they claim to be not reusable on the packaging. They are boveda packets. I have one that comes in RP shipments to vendors too.

[T.G]

Well, they claim to be not reusable on the packaging. They are boveda packets. I have one that comes in RP shipments to vendors too.

But yet they also claim to be 2-way.

Think about it, if it's 2-way, it's rechargeable.

[lightning9191]

I reuse the packs when I give cigars to people who don't have a humidor....recharge it and throw it in a ziploc with the cigars.....better then nothing.

[Chris.]

But yet they also claim to be 2-way.

Think about it, if it's 2-way, it's rechargeable.

That was exactly my thinking. I guess they are trying to get you to toss them out and buy more...

I reuse the packs when I give cigars to people who don't have a humidor....recharge it and throw it in a ziploc with the cigars.....better then nothing.

Yea I do that with the water pillows I bought from CI. They don't keep humidity very stable but they ar better than nothing.

[NCRadioMan]

Yea I do that with the water pillows I bought from CI. They don't keep humidity very stable but they ar better than nothing.

That depends on how you use them. I have used a water pillow in my coolers for years and they are steady as a rock.

[Chris.]

Really? Dang. When I used them as my primary humidification, my rh fluctuated ten points easily with temp fluctuations. Now that I have a larger cooler with more boxes in it and I'm using mostly HCM beads it's steady as a rock almost always. Never fluctuates more than one point. I'm a lot happier with the new setup.

[T.G]

That was exactly my thinking. I guess they are trying to get you to toss them out and buy more...



That's my thoughts too.

[wolfandwhisky]

Box storage questions.
I just bought a box that comes factory sealed in shrink wrap. What are general opinions about storing the box with or without the shrink wrap?

From my reading/googling, it seems that if you want to age the cigars, it is better to remove the shrink wrap and keep the box closed (ie without something small propping the lid).

It also seems that if you plan on smoking the sticks in the nearer future, it isn't as big of a deal to leave the shrink wrap on until you decide to smoke the first one.

The theory, I think, is that the shrink wrap holds the humidity for a fair amount of time, but isn't really a good conductor, like a box, for the long term.

Any thoughts on this?

[chippewastud79]

Take off the wrap and leave the box sit. Its always a good idea to inspect them before you put them away for aging or even if you are smoking them soon, just in case. But as far as opening or closing the box, there will still be humidity exchange so leave them closed :tu

[wolfandwhisky]

Take off the wrap and leave the box sit. Its always a good idea to inspect them before you put them away for aging or even if you are smoking them soon, just in case. But as far as opening or closing the box, there will still be humidity exchange so leave them closed :tu

Exactly the feedback I was looking for. Thanks! :chr

[chachee52]

Sometimes a cigar can get an off taste part of the way through. By purging or blowing back through the coal, you burn off excess tar and other contaminants.
By using a lighter you get a nice light show. "Oooh, pretty colors":D

So I tried this last night and was amazed of how much of a difference it does make. Than I tried the lighter to it and it was "pretty colors"!!! For the advice that is on this thread, even if I'm not the one asking, I am learning everyday!

[N2Advnture]

Box storage questions.
I just bought a box that comes factory sealed in shrink wrap. What are general opinions about storing the box with or without the shrink wrap?

From my reading/googling, it seems that if you want to age the cigars, it is better to remove the shrink wrap and keep the box closed (ie without something small propping the lid).

It also seems that if you plan on smoking the sticks in the nearer future, it isn't as big of a deal to leave the shrink wrap on until you decide to smoke the first one.

The theory, I think, is that the shrink wrap holds the humidity for a fair amount of time, but isn't really a good conductor, like a box, for the long term.

Any thoughts on this?

If you intend on smoking them in the near future, it doesn't matter.

If you intend on smoking them years (5-20+) from now, it's better to keep as much oxygen out as possible to help retard the aging process. This will typically provide more concentrated and subtle flavors.

I hope this helps

~Mark

[jjon90]

I open a sealed box today and found a few sticks with the wrapper peeling. What is this a sign of?

[icehog3]

I open a sealed box today and found a few sticks with the wrapper peeling. What is this a sign of?

Hard to say. They could have been damaged in shipping; they may have been overhumidified at some point and the wrappers expanded; they could have been underhumified and has the wrappers crack...or many other possiblities.

How long have you had them, do you know anything about how they were stored before you got them, and how have you stored them since acquiring them?

[jjon90]

I bought them online and have no idea how they were stored/handled prior to receiving them. Next time I will open them up for inspection.
Thanks for your input!:2

[icehog3]

I bought them online and have no idea how they were stored/handled prior to receiving them. Next time I will open them up for inspection.
Thanks for your input!:2

How long did you have them before opening them, Joe?

[wolfandwhisky]

If you intend on smoking them in the near future, it doesn't matter.

If you intend on smoking them years (5-20+) from now, it's better to keep as much oxygen out as possible to help retard the aging process. This will typically provide more concentrated and subtle flavors.

I hope this helps

~Mark

Thanks Mark - seems the least amount of change in environment the better.

[Chris.]

After storing a box with the lid shut I feel that the cigars taste better with the lid cracked. It might be a placebo effect but it makes sense(to me) to let the air exchange at a quicker rate. (I dont have intentions of aging my cigars more than a year or two)

[N2Advnture]

After storing a box with the lid shut I feel that the cigars taste better with the lid cracked. It might be a placebo effect but it makes sense(to me) to let the air exchange at a quicker rate. (I dont have intentions of aging my cigars more than a year or two)

True for short term aging where more oxygen exchange will create a sort of rapid aging affect but for long term aging, the less oxygen exchange there is, the slower the aging process and the better aging affect.

I hope this helps

~Mark

[DropTheE]

OK guys, I am looking to puchase a box of Opus X Perfexcion X, since online seems to be outrageous most of the time, what is a fair price to pay for a box of them. (32 in a box)
I am thinking around 550-600? Or is that even too much to be paying?
I will absolutely not over pay, if I can get them at reasonable pricing, well that is great but I am not going to get hosed just to have them.

Thanks guys!:D

[wayner123]

OK guys, I am looking to puchase a box of Opus X Perfexcion X, since online seems to be outrageous most of the time, what is a fair price to pay for a box of them. (32 in a box)
I am thinking around 550-600? Or is that even too much to be paying?
I will absolutely not over pay, if I can get them at reasonable pricing, well that is great but I am not going to get hosed just to have them.

Thanks guys!:D

There is a MSRP for these:

5. Perfecxion X (6 ¼" x 48) ......................... MSRP = $13.00 x 32 per box = $416.00 (released 1998)

MSRP does not include state sales tax, nor state tobacco tax, the latter of which can be quite significant.

This was copied from gartrader, which is the new vitolas.net. It's a great site for Fuente cigars.

So take into account your state's tax and you can price accordingly.

[DropTheE]

There is a MSRP for these:

5. Perfecxion X (6 ¼" x 48) ......................... MSRP = $13.00 x 32 per box = $416.00 (released 1998)

MSRP does not include state sales tax, nor state tobacco tax, the latter of which can be quite significant.

This was copied from gartrader, which is the new vitolas.net. It's a great site for Fuente cigars.

So take into account your state's tax and you can price accordingly.

Thanks Wayner, I appreciate that!!

[RichieBklyn]

Problems I have been having as of late thanks for your help... My mouth seems to get dry within a few puffs of cigars. Halfway through the cigars I get a bitter taste in my mouth and have to spit saliva often. By the time I am finishing the cigar the taste in my mouth is unbearable. Bitter and numb.

My humidor has been dropping down to under 60 quite often, weekly, so I am wetting my beads and it brings it back up to 75. Although some cigars still seem to have a cracking sound when i softly squeeze them, are they dried out? What should I do with those cigars?

Does anyone have a link on how to exhale through your nose, I have no clue.

[lightning9191]

Does anyone have a link on how to exhale through your nose, I have no clue.

Check this out: http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=30447&highlight=snork (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=30447&highlight=snork)

I'm not sure about the rest of your problems...do you have a drink when you smoke?

[RichieBklyn]

Thanks for the vid, very helpful, I have a drink about half the time when I smoke.

[T.G]

A little bit of crackle when you squeeze a cigar is, IMO, a good thing as it indicates that the cigar isn't too wet. A lot of crackle and cracking wrappers usually indicates that they are too dry. If such is the case, no need to worry, once you stabilize your humidor, they will come back to normal in time.

Assuming that you have tested your hygrometer for accuracy and it is reasonably accurate and that you have the proper amount/volume of humidification elements for the size of your humidor, your humidor needs to be checked for leaks. Once you have found and repaired them, or replaced the humidor if no other solution is possible, your humidity should be more constant and you'll get a better idea of how your cigars are smoking.

Link:
How to salt test your hygrometer for accuracy (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/html/cig101_12st.asp)

[tomc3084]

I almost always retrohale, I can't imagine smoking and not doing it....

[Chris.]

Problems I have been having as of late thanks for your help... My mouth seems to get dry within a few puffs of cigars. Halfway through the cigars I get a bitter taste in my mouth and have to spit saliva often. By the time I am finishing the cigar the taste in my mouth is unbearable. Bitter and numb.

My humidor has been dropping down to under 60 quite often, weekly, so I am wetting my beads and it brings it back up to 75. Although some cigars still seem to have a cracking sound when i softly squeeze them, are they dried out? What should I do with those cigars?

Does anyone have a link on how to exhale through your nose, I have no clue.

Try drinking water with your cigars instead of tea, or some other beverage. I find that water keeps my mouth from drying out so much.75 IMO is way too humid. I keep mine around 64% and love it.

[J0eybb]

Any prolonged temperatures of over 70 degrees and you are playing with the likelyhood of beetles. Find the coolest place in the house to help in the warm summers. Insepction or not, unless you are 100% certain every egg has been iradicated (unlikely by a simple inspection), I wouldn't chance my sticks at any temperature above 70 for a period longer than 24 hours. :2

Does everyone keep their house at 70 degrees and under?

[Mugen910]

The house....no not really but I keep the vinotemp in the coolest and most shaded part of the house (basement). Usually anything over 70* for a prolonged period of time might show a presence of eggs hatching. I am sure the worry is less if you freeze them prior to kills them though.
Posted via Mobile Device

[CigarNut]

In the winter I keep my house heated to 70 degrees during the day and let it drop to 66 degrees at night. In the summer I keep the house at the same temps, but use the A/C to do so.

[Wolfgang]

Which end do I light on this?

[lightning9191]

Which end do I light on this?

Not the end you put in your mouth :D

[T.G]

Which end do I light on this?

Punch it in the middle and light both ends.

[Wolfgang]

Punch it in the middle and light both ends.

That's what I was thinking. :tf

[T.G]

That's what I was thinking. :tf

I'm serious. (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showpost.php?p=528672&postcount=153)

[theonlybear4CORT]

Is that sloth from the goonies?

















































;s

[T.G]

....

Did you just say something?

[macsauce13]

:r

You're face looks like you might have put more than just tobacco into that cigar! ;)

[T.G]

:r

You're face looks like you might have put more than just tobacco into that cigar! ;)

That was a Burpha, er, Gurkha. That was the look of pain, just pure pain baby.

I think I was actually sober when that photo was taken too, which was really odd.

[pnoon]

This thread is intended as a helpful and informative thread for Q&A. Let's try and keep the mindless banter to a minimum, please.

[Apoco]

I've run into this issue a few times, but no one that I have talked to has even heard of it.

I get cigars that burn like a crater. The leaf in the middle burns nicely, but the wrapper refuses to catch a flame. I tend to light with a match, but but I don't get that on every cigar. The only way to get the wrapper to really catch is to smoke it for a little while, then flame the wrapper. It causes it to go up in flame and get caught up to the leaf...but then I miss out on the flavor of the wrapper.

I've gotten this on cigars I've stored in my own humidor, as well as when I buy and immediately smoke at my local B&M. Any ideas?

[pnoon]

I've run into this issue a few times, but no one that I have talked to has even heard of it.

I get cigars that burn like a crater. The leaf in the middle burns nicely, but the wrapper refuses to catch a flame. I tend to light with a match, but but I don't get that on every cigar. The only way to get the wrapper to really catch is to smoke it for a little while, then flame the wrapper. It causes it to go up in flame and get caught up to the leaf...but then I miss out on the flavor of the wrapper.

I've gotten this on cigars I've stored in my own humidor, as well as when I buy and immediately smoke at my local B&M. Any ideas?

My guess would be that they are too wet. Try dry boxing your cigars (box or humidor w/no humidification) for a few days before smoking them.

[mariogolbee]

Alex,
What is the rh of your humi? Rh is all in preference but I've had better luck with 64-68% rh than 70+. Often times B&M's will have their rh set at 70+. As far as the match thing goes I prefer a torch. I find it is easier to control than a match. Try using a torch and toasting the foot until it is a little bit red, blowing on it, and repeating until the entire foot is cherried evenly. This usually starts the cigar out with a more consistent burn.

[Apoco]

My humidor is currently sitting at 69%. That is where it seems to really balance out this time of year. During the winter it sags down to about 65% usually. Tougher to keep it dry here in TN. Pretty sure I could just about set them on my desk haha.

I'll see what I can do about dropping the humidity. Thanks for the advice, fellas!

[benedic08]

My humidor is currently sitting at 69%. That is where it seems to really balance out this time of year. During the winter it sags down to about 65% usually. Tougher to keep it dry here in TN. Pretty sure I could just about set them on my desk haha.

I'll see what I can do about dropping the humidity. Thanks for the advice, fellas!

A good way to drop down the humidity is to grab some cedar chips that comes with some of the cigars if you have them then stick them in your humi for a while and they'll absorb some of the humidity and just take them out later...

Happy Smokin! :ss

[theonlybear4CORT]

I prefer to dry box or leave the cigar out for a few hours before you smoke it if your Rh is a bit high. I prefer to have my cigars @ 65%

[jonumberone]

I learned here to store Acid cigars in a separate humidor. My question is after all the Acids are smoked up is the humidor safe to store regular cigars in?

[Huskysibe]

I learned here to store Acid cigars in a separate humidor. My question is after all the Acids are smoked up is the humidor safe to store regular cigars in?

I am just guessing but I would think that cedar would need some time to air out first. Thats what I would do anyway.

[DPD6030]

I learned here to store Acid cigars in a separate humidor. My question is after all the Acids are smoked up is the humidor safe to store regular cigars in?

Hello Dom. IMO, I wouldn't chance the herbs and oils that infused from the cigars in the cedar unless you enjoy those types of things in regular non-flavored cigars. Which by your original post seems you do enjoy those. It could be an interesting experiment :D

[jonumberone]

Hello Dom. IMO, I wouldn't chance the herbs and oils that infused from the cigars in the cedar unless you enjoy those types of things in regular non-flavored cigars. Which by your original post seems you do enjoy those. It could be an interesting experiment :D

It's actually the opposite not a big fan, but I have been handed a few by friends and they tend to sit a while before I get to them. I think from the info i gathered here i'll just set up a tupperdor that I can throw away after they're gone.
Thanks guys.

[lightning9191]

It's actually the opposite not a big fan, but I have been handed a few by friends and they tend to sit a while before I get to them. I think from the info i gathered here i'll just set up a tupperdor that I can throw away after they're gone.
Thanks guys.

You could probably just wash out the tupperdor and reuse it :2

[Chris.]

I'm +1 for the tupperdor. Some people believe that you cannot use an infused cigar humidor for non infused sticks after the fact. It makes sense to me if you don't want those flavors entering your cigar, but I don't see why, with some air time, the humidor wouldn't be safe for normal cigars down the road.

[T.G]

I'm +1 for the tupperdor. Some people believe that you cannot use an infused cigar humidor for non infused sticks after the fact. It makes sense to me if you don't want those flavors entering your cigar, but I don't see why, with some air time, the humidor wouldn't be safe for normal cigars down the road.

I think it really depends on how many infused cigars were stored in there, how pungent they were, how long they were in there, and if they were stored loose or in their boxes.

If you pick up an old ACID box, some of them will still have an aroma to them years later, a humidor won't be any different, just varies based on the aforementioned.

Tupperdors and humidor storage are not the same and depending on how you like your cigars, you might not care for the tupperdor. I also would not count on being able to wash the aroma out of the tupperdor after a longer storage, ever pick up a piece of tupperware that was used to store a curry dish or spicy chili or anything with a lot of spices in it for a while and smell it? Five washings and weeks later and the damn thing still stinks.

If you want to store the ACIDs in a humidor rather than a tupperdor you can usually pick up a 20-count "(manufacturer) logo" humidor off of CBID for under $10.

[Chris.]

Very true. I am using one of those inexpensive 20 count humis for my handful of flavored sticks. Got the perdomo 20 ct with some cigars sometime last year for like $20. It has a decent seal as well. I think the humi can hold about 30-40 cigars though depending on size of course.

[T.G]

Yup.

And when you think about the cost of tupperware, even the generic stuff, one that is about the size of one of those 20-ct logo humidors, in most cases, they cost almost as much as the humidor off of CBID and they look like crap...

[CigarNut]

The only real advantage of the tupperware over a cheap (logo'd) humi is that you know that the seal on the tupperware is good.

A cheap humi is just that, and they often leak like a sieve which is not good if you want to maintain RH...

[T.G]

There are no absolutes or "givens" Michael. I've had plenty of tupperware that doesn't seal worth a crap, and I have a few of the logo humidors that seal fine.

They are both cheap solutions, neither is perfect.

One of the things about the logo humidors that it seems most people don't realize or take into account is that, like many mass produced humidors, they are not sealed on the bottoms. It's simply a patch of felt glued to the MDF. Placing them on a porous surface, such as a wooden counter, will allow significant area for transfer. Placing them on glass, sealed tile or a sheet of plexiglass will significantly reduce this issue.

The other common place they can leak is the lip seal on the lid. Granted, some of them are very poorly fitted, but five seconds with some masking tape will usually take care of this. You can also go through the effort of removing and re-seating the lip if you so desire.

Practically, that's really the only places they can leak in service. If they have gaps in the lid or splits in the side seams, you should have sent it back upon receipt to CI for replacement.

I've never understood people's obsession with tupperware for cigars. Sure, fine for short term storage, but no air transfer = recipe for mold and soggy cigars in long term storage since they can seal too well.

Oh, and due to the lack of breathing, storing a mixed collection of ACIDs in a tupperware is not really a good idea unless you want them to all end up tasting the same and nothing at all like what Jon had intended because of the sealed environment, the stronger ones will affect the milder ones.

[CigarNut]

I've always viewed tupperware as a temporary storage solution while I am short on space or cleaning/rearranging my humidor. I also always use beads in any of my humis, from cigar caddy to tupperware to 300 count to coolerdor, this helps keep a stable RH and reduces the chances for mold, etc.

In all of my larger humis (300 count and above) I have a small battery operated fan to move some air. Don't know if it really helps, but it makes me feel better...

[Samsquanch]

So here's something I was thinking about yesterday evening while enjoying a fine Siglo VI and grilling some steaks...why is one end of the cigar capped? Just so we can have the pleasure of cutting it how we please?

[icehog3]

So here's something I was thinking about yesterday evening while enjoying a fine Siglo VI and grilling some steaks...why is one end of the cigar capped? Just so we can have the pleasure of cutting it how we please?

The cap secures the wrapper from unraveling.

[Samsquanch]

But the wrapper doesn't unravel at the other end...

[icehog3]

But the wrapper doesn't unravel at the other end...

Not if properly cared for. ;)

[pnoon]

But the wrapper doesn't unravel at the other end...
And why would it?

This may help you understand.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDBjQX54r5s

[Samsquanch]

If the cap is needed to keep the cigar from unraveling, there would need to be a cap on both ends. From the video it looked as though the cigar wrapper was rolled the same on both ends, just one end was cut and the other capped.

[icehog3]

If the cap is needed to keep the cigar from unraveling, there would need to be a cap on both ends. From the video it looked as though the cigar wrapper was rolled the same on both ends, just one end was cut and the other capped.

False. Capping one end keeps a properly cared for cigar from unraveling.

[pnoon]

If the cap is needed to keep the cigar from unraveling, there would need to be a cap on both ends. From the video it looked as though the cigar wrapper was rolled the same on both ends, just one end was cut and the other capped.

Take a sheet of paper and roll it into a cylinder on an angle. Tape the end where you finished rolling. Do you need to tape the other end?

[icehog3]

Take a sheet of paper and roll it into a cylinder on an angle. Tape the end where you finished rolling. Do you need to tape the other end?

Enable your reputation, and you will see I have bestowed great praise on your wonderful analogy. :)

[Samsquanch]

Take a sheet of paper and roll it into a cylinder on an angle. Tape the end where you finished rolling. Do you need to tape the other end?

Ah, makes sense, sometimes it takes me a while... :D

[N2Advnture]

So here's something I was thinking about yesterday evening while enjoying a fine Siglo VI and grilling some steaks...why is one end of the cigar capped? Just so we can have the pleasure of cutting it how we please?

Blenders create a "recipe" of sorts and they intentionally manipulate leaf placement and leaf proportion (Ligero, Seco, Volado - fillers and Capotes - Binders) along the length of a cigar to achieve a specific development in the overall flavor profile of a cigar.

They also take into account the leaf orientation (tip-stem alignment) which also provides a specific progression of flavor as well.

I also believe that capping a cigar not only indicates the blender's preferred end to smoke but also allows for oxygen to end the cigar and merry the blend over time (an unfounded claim, I admit). It would be interesting to take two identical cigars and cap both ends of one and age them to compare (which I haven't done yet).

Anyway, I hope this helps

~Mark

[Chris.]

Take a sheet of paper and roll it into a cylinder on an angle. Tape the end where you finished rolling. Do you need to tape the other end?

Fantastic analogy!

[chachee52]

I was smoking a "house" cigar yesterday. It's a cigar that I've had in the past and I really liked. This one has been in my humidor (68% humidity) for about 6 months now and when I was smoking it, it tasted a little stale.
This was the first time that I have kept a "house" cigar this long and was wondering if these cheaper cigars typically don't age well? I know some wines need to be consumed sooner than later, others it gets better as you let it sit, yet others it doesn't matter. Is this the same with cigars?

[bobarian]

Six months should not affect a cigar adversely. That short a period is only rest, aging requires years, some say decades. Often "House" cigars are short batch cigars and the blends are very inconsistent. But I have also had cigars from the same box or bundle show totally different tastes, most recently with two Casa Magna's. Two of us lit up smokes from the same bundle at an event, one was spicy and full bodied while the other was bland and tasteless. :2

[Chris.]

Thats a huge difference in the casa magna! I've caught differences in flavors before, but never strength

[bobarian]

Thats a huge difference in the casa magna! I've caught differences in flavors before, but never strength

If they were unbanded I would have thought they were two different cigars.

[chachee52]

Six months should not affect a cigar adversely. That short a period is only rest, aging requires years, some say decades. Often "House" cigars are short batch cigars and the blends are very inconsistent. But I have also had cigars from the same box or bundle show totally different tastes, most recently with two Casa Magna's. Two of us lit up smokes from the same bundle at an event, one was spicy and full bodied while the other was bland and tasteless. :2

Ok, I was just wondering if i had done something wrong.
Thanks

[Samsquanch]

Would love to hear some opinions on whether to leave the individual cigars wrapped or not. I've been taking them out of their wrapper because I like the look of them in my humidor unwrapped but now I'm thinking of starting to leave them wrapped to help protect them while transporting. Any other advantages/disadvantages? What are your thoughts?

[chippewastud79]

Would love to hear some opinions on whether to leave the individual cigars wrapped or not. I've been taking them out of their wrapper because I like the look of them in my humidor unwrapped but now I'm thinking of starting to leave them wrapped to help protect them while transporting. Any other advantages/disadvantages? What are your thoughts?

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=17204&highlight=cello
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=29972&highlight=cello
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=358&highlight=cello
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=1419&highlight=cello
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=1233&highlight=cello
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=17573&highlight=cellophane

Its personal preference. :tu

[Chris.]

I think the aging process goes a little faster without the cello, but you're right. The main reason to keep it on is for protection during transport. But if you're using a traveldor, it should never be a problem anyways.

[Rob]

I'm a new smoker currently living in Kuwait and I have a few questions.
1. I've been ordering cigars online, the mail room here is a metallic connex. The temperature during the day is normally 100-120 degrees and the RH is normally around 10-20%. I been making an effort to go and collect my cigars on the same day I see my name on the mail list. Will this have a big impact on the cigars?

2. When I leave Kuwait whats the best way to ship my humidor and collection of cigars to the US? Should I try to limit my collection because shipping will have an adverse affect on my collection?

3. I've read allot of post's about using Cigar Caddy's for travel. I was thinking about using a small 20ct humidor for travel. Does anyone see an issue with this? I was planning to use it when I go on vacation to the US for about 3 weeks.

4. Does anyone have any experience with customs? I'm not going to try and smuggle in Cubans, but I'm curious what the process is and if I need to keep my receipts to show them that my cigars were shipped to my by an online retailer in the US.

[longknocker]

I Can Answer Some Of Your Questions, Rob.:)

Cigar Caddy's Are Great For Short term storage, Say 1 week. Most People Try To Keep Their Cigars Stored between 55-65 RH & Below 75* F. I Would Worry About Leaving Them For very long in those temperatures you mentioned. It Would seem easier to smoke everything you have while in Kuwait So you don't have to worry about customs. Good Luck!:tu

[chippewastud79]

1. I've been ordering cigars online, the mail room here is a metallic connex. The temperature during the day is normally 100-120 degrees and the RH is normally around 10-20%. I been making an effort to go and collect my cigars on the same day I see my name on the mail list. Will this have a big impact on the cigars? Long term exposure to that kind of heat could be detrimental

2. When I leave Kuwait whats the best way to ship my humidor and collection of cigars to the US? Should I try to limit my collection because shipping will have an adverse affect on my collection? A general rule would be to keep them with you, but depending on your time in commute, the shipping of them to an address you will be or someone you trust might be a better option. Make sure they are packed well and shipping won't be a problem.

3. I've read allot of post's about using Cigar Caddy's for travel. I was thinking about using a small 20ct humidor for travel. Does anyone see an issue with this? I was planning to use it when I go on vacation to the US for about 3 weeks.
A cigar caddy or something similar would be far more beneficial for a three week trip to keep the cigars from moving around and will likely hold the humidity better than a humidor will through traveling.
4. Does anyone have any experience with customs? I'm not going to try and smuggle in Cubans, but I'm curious what the process is and if I need to keep my receipts to show them that my cigars were shipped to my by an online retailer in the US. Rumor has it that any unbanded or cuban labeled cigars are now being confiscated at borders. Luckily for you, most cubans you would be buying in Kuwait would be counterfeit, so you can save your money :tu

:2

[timj219]

I'm new to buying cigars online. For that matter I'm new to smoking anything but Macanudos. I've been looking and reading and I see cigars that are "rare" and "limited production". But except for one cigar which the maker says is rare because it's made from tobacco from only one year I never seem to see an explanation of why the cigar is rare or limited production.
So it occurred to me if the cigar is that good and there is no reason stated for why it is made in such small quantities, why don't they just make more? I mean there is nothing about the fact that a limited number are produced that automatically means greater quality right? Is this only a marketing decision or are these rare and limited production cigars really "better" in some way?

[kydsid]

I'm new to buying cigars online. For that matter I'm new to smoking anything but Macanudos. I've been looking and reading and I see cigars that are "rare" and "limited production". But except for one cigar which the maker says is rare because it's made from tobacco from only one year I never seem to see an explanation of why the cigar is rare or limited production.
So it occurred to me if the cigar is that good and there is no reason stated for why it is made in such small quantities, why don't they just make more? I mean there is nothing about the fact that a limited number are produced that automatically means greater quality right? Is this only a marketing decision or are these rare and limited production cigars really "better" in some way?

There are generally a couple generic ways something is rare. It is old and therefore in limited supply. It was never made in large quantities for whatever reason; a one off that failed, never intended to be sold, etc. etc. Or it was popular and all smoked up by everyone else.

Limited production is mostly marketing and some production issues. Every harvest from every different location brings a change to the leaf. So it might be a marketing ploy or that just that the crop in the blend recipe failed that year to meet expectations.

Are all limited productions/Regionals better in some way? No. Are some? Sure.

[timj219]

Welcome Tim. 99% of the time it is just hype. I would recommend getting a sampler or two from some of the better online retailers (some are members here) and forgetting about the limited or rare stuff for now.

scottieThere are generally a couple generic ways something is rare. It is old and therefore in limited supply. It was never made in large quantities for whatever reason; a one off that failed, never intended to be sold, etc. etc. Or it was popular and all smoked up by everyone else.

Limited production is mostly marketing and some production issues. Every harvest from every different location brings a change to the leaf. So it might be a marketing ploy or that just that the crop in the blend recipe failed that year to meet expectations.

Are all limited productions/Regionals better in some way? No. Are some? Sure.Thanks for the answers. I don't see myself chasing down too many rare and expensive smokes right away unless I read something here that piques my curiosity about one. I'm still being amazed by the new moderately priced and plentiful cigars I'm trying.

I have another newbie question. I received an order from Famous tuesday and all the cigars had dates on them. I'm guessing these are the dates Famous received them and put them in storage. I think that's a great idea and I don't remember my first online order (from another vendor) being dated like that. Did I just miss it? Do all the big online vendors do it or only some?

[DPD6030]

I have another newbie question. I received an order from Famous tuesday and all the cigars had dates on them. I'm guessing these are the dates Famous received them and put them in storage. I think that's a great idea and I don't remember my first online order (from another vendor) being dated like that. Did I just miss it? Do all the big online vendors do it or only some?

Hi Tim,
I've ordered from Famous before and I don't recall seeing a date on any of the samplers I've purchased from them. Now boxes sometimes have date codes. Maybe someone with more insite on Famous may have the answer. You could always email Famous and ask them as well. :2

[timj219]

Hi Tim,
I've ordered from Famous before and I don't recall seeing a date on any of the samplers I've purchased from them. Now boxes sometimes have date codes. Maybe someone with more insite on Famous may have the answer. You could always email Famous and ask them as well. :2Maybe I will. I bought a five pack and five singles. The fiver had a dated slip of paper stuck on the baggie and each single had one in its bag or stuck on the tube or wrapper.

[Mr B]

Maybe I will. I bought a five pack and five singles. The fiver had a dated slip of paper stuck on the baggie and each single had one in its bag or stuck on the tube or wrapper.


Huh, must be something new from them. I received an order form them a few weeks back and nothing was dated. I like it though. :tu

[timj219]

I emailed famous to ask.

".......I ordered a five pack and five singles. The fiver had a dated slip of paper attached to its bag and each of the singles had one glued to its wrapper or tube or in the baggie with it......Are these the dates when the cigars arrived at Famous and entered your humidors?...."

and they got back to me this morning.

"Hi Tim,
First of all, thank you for joining our Famous Smoke Shop family.
And yes, you are correct. We date all product when it is received into the warehouse......."

This is a great idea IMO. If other vendors don't do it they should.

[waffle]

I received a package last night from famous and purposely looked for this as well. All of the sticks I got from them had it on there.

[mukky]

ok, so I have read the disputes about whether or not to leave the cello on, and I am still kind of confused. My confusion lies in whether or not to leave cello on a box purchase as opposed to singles. If you buy a box, do you leave the cello on each cigar or remove them? It would seem to me, that with the box and cello protecting the cigars, there is very little airflow or room for humidity to get to the cigars. Seems that it would take much longer for the intended humidity to be achieved? So what do you guys do when you buy a box? I'm sure I am going to get different responses, so if you could tell me your reasoning, hopefully I can make a decision on what to do based on that. Hope this makes sense, and sorry for the long post?

[waffle]

ok, so I have read the disputes about whether or not to leave the cello on, and I am still kind of confused. My confusion lies in whether or not to leave cello on a box purchase as opposed to singles. If you buy a box, do you leave the cello on each cigar or remove them? It would seem to me, that with the box and cello protecting the cigars, there is very little airflow or room for humidity to get to the cigars. Seems that it would take much longer for the intended humidity to be achieved? So what do you guys do when you buy a box? I'm sure I am going to get different responses, so if you could tell me your reasoning, hopefully I can make a decision on what to do based on that. Hope this makes sense, and sorry for the long post?

I can sum up the answers you're going to get because that was a question I had to begin with and read ALL OVER about it... "Its just your preference" :D

[waffle]

So I have a humidor thats been seasoning for 3 days and its been at a constant 74% for 2 days... does that mean its seasoned and ready to be used?

[Adriftpanda]

ok, so I have read the disputes about whether or not to leave the cello on, and I am still kind of confused. My confusion lies in whether or not to leave cello on a box purchase as opposed to singles. If you buy a box, do you leave the cello on each cigar or remove them? It would seem to me, that with the box and cello protecting the cigars, there is very little airflow or room for humidity to get to the cigars. Seems that it would take much longer for the intended humidity to be achieved? So what do you guys do when you buy a box? I'm sure I am going to get different responses, so if you could tell me your reasoning, hopefully I can make a decision on what to do based on that. Hope this makes sense, and sorry for the long post?

Leave it on, take it off... just a preference. Cigars are tough, a lot tougher than we give credit for. I leave my on, because... I am just too lazy to take all the cello off one by one AND it does not make a difference imo.

[mukky]

I can sum up the answers you're going to get because that was a question I had to begin with and read ALL OVER about it... "Its just your preference" :D

lol. If I could sum up everything, and I mean everything, there is to cigar smoking in one sentence, it would be..."Its your preference":r

[waffle]

Leave it on, take it off... just a preference. Cigars are tough, a lot tougher than we give credit for. I leave my on, because... I am just too lazy to take all the cello off one by one AND it does not make a difference imo.

Speaking of tough.. you get my NST package ;)

[lightning9191]

So I have a humidor thats been seasoning for 3 days and its been at a constant 74% for 2 days... does that mean its seasoned and ready to be used?

Yes. It's a little high though....I'd take the water out, let the humidity drop to 65%, fill with cigars and beads, and shut the lid. Then you're all set :tu

[pnoon]

Yes. It's a little high though....I'd take the water out, let the humidity drop to 65%, fill with cigars and beads, and shut the lid. Then you're all set :tu

I would put the cigars in right away as they will absorb some of the excess humidity. If you wait until it drops to 65% then when you put the cigars in, it will likely drop well below 60%.
:2

[mahtofire]

Not really a noob questions but I've been away from the forums and the industry for a couple years now....what have I missed that I need to try?

[pnoon]

Not really a noob questions but I've been away from the forums and the industry for a couple years now....what have I missed that I need to try?

That all depends on what you like and who you ask. The best advice I can give you is to read the threads here on the forum - Reviews, Cigar Discussion, etc. The answers you get from your post will be quite varied.

[Chingas]

Not really a noob questions but I've been away from the forums and the industry for a couple years now....what have I missed that I need to try?



Everything...

[mahtofire]

I want the answers to be varied. I just wanted to know what the newer good quality cigars that came out over the last couple years may be.

Don't worry, I like trying cigars different cigars...........:dr

[chippewastud79]

I want the answers to be varied. I just wanted to know what the newer good quality cigars that came out over the last couple years may be.

Don't worry, I like trying cigars different cigars...........:dr

You could get 100's of different answers to this. Just read around some of the reviews and threads about different cigar makers and make your own determinations. :2

[Ogre]

You could get 100's of different answers to this. Just read around some of the reviews and threads about different cigar makers and make your own determinations. :2

I would agree. Different strokes for different strokes. I have tried some that got rave reviews and didnt like and vise versa. Wish I could be of more help!!

[waffle]

I would put the cigars in right away as they will absorb some of the excess humidity. If you wait until it drops to 65% then when you put the cigars in, it will likely drop well below 60%.
:2

Took your advice, they are now happily living in the new humi :) I may be investing in a couple of icepacks due to our A/C going out and my humis getting up in heat... other question, currently, I have a dual temp wine fridge that we're not using the bottom half of, could I just stick my humis in that or is that bad for the humis?

[T.G]

Took your advice, they are now happily living in the new humi :) I may be investing in a couple of icepacks due to our A/C going out and my humis getting up in heat... other question, currently, I have a dual temp wine fridge that we're not using the bottom half of, could I just stick my humis in that or is that bad for the humis?

Won't hurt the humidor unless it gets condensate raining down on it.

Long term storage in a compressor cooled unit might be detrimental to the cigars due to the way the compressor based units dehydrate the air, but with the cigars inside a sealed humidor placed in a compressor cooled unit, this effect will be minimized.

How long is your AC going to be out for? A week? Less? If so, I wouldn't worry about it too much.

[waffle]

How long is your AC going to be out for? A week? Less? If so, I wouldn't worry about it too much.

Not sure, we're having a hard time getting anyone to come out and ACTUALLY figure out what's wrong with our system.

[bsmokin]

That's rough man... good luck with getting it fixed!

You're sticks should survive... not sure how much you could really do except keep them out of any sunny areas and potentially put them in a basement if you have one....


Not sure, we're having a hard time getting anyone to come out and ACTUALLY figure out what's wrong with our system.

[Ogre]

I have found that putting them in an igloo cooler helps. It stays cooler than the air around it in my house.

[waffle]

I have found that putting them in an igloo cooler helps. It stays cooler than the air around it in my house.

I have a spare cooler (no I'm not turning it into a coolidor) but its not being used right now, so I think I'll grab some freezer packs and throw them in there with the humidors to keep the heat down. THey are also in the basement and this is how hot our house is... its 76 in the basement in the back away from windows and in the coolest part... oh well, it'll get fixed sooner rather than later.

[Ogre]

I wouldnt worry about the freezer packs. the basement should be cool enough by itself.

[Chris.]

I saw check out the EP carrillo line. LFD is also very good if you like a strong cigar.

[icehog3]

Not really a noob questions but I've been away from the forums and the industry for a couple years now....what have I missed that I need to try?

Nubs. :)

[Chris.]

The only nub I really liked was the Maduro. I haven't tried the Cain nub yet though...

[pnoon]

Nice review.

[icehog3]

The only nub I really liked was the Maduro. I haven't tried the Cain nub yet though...

The only Nub I ever liked hasn't been rolled yet. :r

[Pass]

Not really a noob questions but I've been away from the forums and the industry for a couple years now....what have I missed that I need to try?

Both Diesel Unholy Coctail and the Man O' War are good. I believe that they are both AJ Fernandez blends. I haven't tried the Man O' War Ruination yet, (still in the humi), but I hear it's better than the Man O' War which was tasty.

[Kreth]

Both Diesel Unholy Coctail and the Man O' War are good. I believe that they are both AJ Fernandez blends. I haven't tried the Man O' War Ruination yet, (still in the humi), but I hear it's better than the Man O' War which was tasty.
Correct, both by Fernandez. The MOW LE Figurado is nice too, it's the MOW blend in the Ruination wrapper.
Posted via Mobile Device

[mahtofire]

Also, how do I find peoples' addresses if I want to bomb someone, and where can I put mine in case anyone wants to bomb me?

[icehog3]

Also, how do I find peoples' addresses if I want to bomb someone, and where can I put mine in case anyone wants to bomb me?

PM your address to pnoon (Peter) to be put in the Rolodex.

Looks like you need to meet one more requirement to request addresses though.

2 of 3 Requirements for use of the CA Rolodex: 100 posts/ 60 day membership/participation in trade (trader rating)

[T.G]

Also, how do I find peoples' addresses if I want to bomb someone, and where can I put mine in case anyone wants to bomb me?

Everything regarding your question should be covered in these two threads:

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=22634
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=22394

[mahtofire]

Gotcha, Thanks guys!

[Samsquanch]

Is there a posting on here that outlines a good cigar review process? Perhaps a primer on how to review a cigar? I've looked around and searched but haven't come across anything, thanks.

[kydsid]

Is there a posting on here that outlines a good cigar review process? Perhaps a primer on how to review a cigar? I've looked around and searched but haven't come across anything, thanks.

No there isn't. But if you look at a bunch of reviews you will see common trends/fads among them all. There really is no right or wrong way to share your thoughts. Just the fact that you are willing to spend your time to contribute is all that matters. :2

[NCRadioMan]

:tpd:

Is there a posting on here that outlines a good cigar review process? Perhaps a primer on how to review a cigar? I've looked around and searched but haven't come across anything, thanks.

There is no uniform way. Just tell us what you think of the cigar and maybe some of the flavors you get out of them. If you see a review that is structured the way you like, I see no reason you can't copy that basic outline.

[chippewastud79]

Is there a posting on here that outlines a good cigar review process? Perhaps a primer on how to review a cigar? I've looked around and searched but haven't come across anything, thanks.

Reviews can be as simple as you like or as toned down as you feel is appropriate. Pictures are always nice, for those who don't like reading. Pretty much just boils down to 'Liked it' and 'Didn't like it' (atleast thats how I score mine). If the review sucks, no worries, we will just all taunt you in a public forum for all to see. ;)

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Is there a posting on here that outlines a good cigar review process? Perhaps a primer on how to review a cigar? I've looked around and searched but haven't come across anything, thanks.

I'm with everyone else. Just keep it basic. Flavors, burn, draw, ect..

[Chris.]

I agree with everyone else. Everyone loves to see pictures in a review, but they aren't necessary. Most give their thought on the construction: what kind of cap, how well was it applied, are there any soft spots, how tightly packed does it feel, is the foot cut cleanly? How vieny is the wrapper? What shade is it? Then people tend to move on to the prelight draw and any flavors they may or may not taste from that. From there you go from 1/3 to 2/3 to 3/3 in terms of what portion of the cigar you are describing, as they typically change around those times. People tend to describe the burn, if it was razor sharp, if it was jagged, if it needed relights/touchups etc. Then offer up your final thoughts on the cigar. Did it appeal to your palate? Do you think you would buy it again?

I love seeing reviews! Post them up brother!

[Samsquanch]

Thanks guys, just posted my first review (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=630). I enjoyed the smoking (of course) but I also really enjoyed taking the time to focus on the cigar and what I was tasting and experiencing.

[Pass]

Thanks guys, just posted my first review (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=630). I enjoyed the smoking (of course) but I also really enjoyed taking the time to focus on the cigar and what I was tasting and experiencing.

Nice link.... to the "Refining your palate" thread. :r

[Samsquanch]

Haha, wow thanks for noticing that. In my review I link to the "Refining" thread and must have mixed up the two links. My real first review is here (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=33932).

[ujponds]

I have a question about Boveda humidity packs. Do you think they are enough on their own for a desktop?
They seem to work pretty well, I like that if I go on a weekend trip I can just put one in a container w/ my sticks.

[bobarian]

I have a question about Boveda humidity packs. Do you think they are enough on their own for a desktop?
They seem to work pretty well, I like that if I go on a weekend trip I can just put one in a container w/ my sticks.

A weekend wont matter one way or another. If your humidor has a decent seal it should last for several weeks without any humidification. Most here use humidity beads, I prefer 65% beads from Heartfelt Industries. 1-2oz's is enough for most 100-150ct humidors, they only need to be recharged once every month or two. Even if your cigars drop to 50-55% for a short time it wont make a big difference in the long run. Cigars are much tougher than most think.

If you have a Boveda pack throwing it in your humidor while you are away will help. What is your main source of humidification? If you using a sponge with PG solution, I would change to beads as soon as possible. :2

[Chingas]

I have a question about Boveda humidity packs. Do you think they are enough on their own for a desktop?
They seem to work pretty well, I like that if I go on a weekend trip I can just put one in a container w/ my sticks.

I use beads in my coolers and boveda packs in my desktops. No issues. When they get hard, I replace them.

[ujponds]

A weekend wont matter one way or another. If your humidor has a decent seal it should last for several weeks without any humidification. Most here use humidity beads, I prefer 65% beads from Heartfelt Industries. 1-2oz's is enough for most 100-150ct humidors, they only need to be recharged once every month or two. Even if your cigars drop to 50-55% for a short time it wont make a big difference in the long run. Cigars are much tougher than most think.

If you have a Boveda pack throwing it in your humidor while you are away will help. What is your main source of humidification? If you using a sponge with PG solution, I would change to beads as soon as possible. :2

The Boveda packs are my main source. I use 4 69% packs, and it stays @ 67%. I have been pretty happy so far (about 6 weeks), I was wondering if there is maybe some downside I did'nt consider.

[ujponds]

I use beads in my coolers and boveda packs in my desktops. No issues. When they get hard, I replace them.

Do you use them like a blanket, off to the sides or attached to the top?

[ujponds]

Haha, wow thanks for noticing that. In my review I link to the "Refining" thread and must have mixed up the two links. My real first review is here (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=33932).

Love the avitar! "you wanna roll with The Patroit!?"

[bobarian]

I use beads in my coolers and boveda packs in my desktops. No issues. When they get hard, I replace them.

Absolutely no reason to throw them away. They say that they cannot be recharged but this is not true. Put the dried out pack in a tupperware container with a small sponge(or piece of a sponge) moistened with distilled water. After 3 or 4 days the Boveda pack should be recharged and ready to use again.

Regarding the disadvantages of only using Boveda packs. They do not absorb moisture as quickly as beads, nor do they have the holding capacity. Boveda packs are a short term solution while beads are long term. :2