Beginner Questions (Ask Them Here!)

[mase]

Because he doesn't know how to store cigars??? If you try it, I would use a cigar I wouldn't mind dehydrating. I suspect the cigar would dry out rather quickly.

I wasn't planning on trying it. It's kind of strange because he had been using a humidor. He bought a box or two of cigars and started putting them in the vegetable drawer. I wonder where he got this idea or advice.

[galaga]

I wasn't planning on trying it. It's kind of strange because he had been using a humidor. He bought a box or two of cigars and started putting them in the vegetable drawer. I wonder where he got this idea or advice.

If he was trying to kill beetles, he would have to freeze the cigars. There are threads on the board with advice for freezing.

[mase]

If he was trying to kill beetles, he would have to freeze the cigars. There are threads on the board with advice for freezing.

Quite frankly, I don't think that was his aim. Someone must have convinced him that this was better than a humidor. Sadly, it was probably someone at his local B&M.

[Eros]

My seasoning is going fairly well. The humidity is dropping steadily from the 84 it was at about 1:00. But I think I have a bad seal. Did the dollar bill/paper test and what not. Are there any good remedies? Sorry if there is a thread on this already. I'm new to discussion boards:/

[icehog3]

My seasoning is going fairly well. The humidity is dropping steadily from the 84 it was at about 1:00. But I think I have a bad seal. Did the dollar bill/paper test and what not. Are there any good remedies? Sorry if there is a thread on this already. I'm new to discussion boards:/

Silicone. :)

I just typed "Seal" in the search box, "thread titles only", and saw a half dozen threads that can help you.

[Eros]

Lastly, I hope, about how long does it take for low humidity to ruin cigars? If I place my cigars in the humidor, with 65 rh beads, and it drops to like 62 or even 60, roughly how long do I have to fix the humidity before all hell breaks loose?

[Newbie_nick]

Lastly, I hope, about how long does it take for low humidity to ruin cigars? If I place my cigars in the humidor, with 65 rh beads, and it drops to like 62 or even 60, roughly how long do I have to fix the humidity before all hell breaks loose?

Actually, some folks prefer their sticks at 60 Rh! Its a personal preference thing....

As far as damaging cigars from low humidity, I don't think that they can get hurt. If you discover that your humidity is too low, recharge your humidifier and let the sticks "soak" for several days to a couple of weeks to stabilize. They will be fine...

[NCRadioMan]

Lastly, I hope, about how long does it take for low humidity to ruin cigars? If I place my cigars in the humidor, with 65 rh beads, and it drops to like 62 or even 60, roughly how long do I have to fix the humidity before all hell breaks loose?

Take a breath, bro. You are worrying way too much! Cigars are much more resilient and tougher than you obviously think. 60% will not adversely affect your cigars if you kept them there permanently, as I do. I know some that keep their cigars as low as 55% and they are fine.

So, sit back, relax and have a cigar. :tu

[Eros]

I just added the rest of my cigars to my humidor which obviously caused to rh to drop. It was sitting steady around 64 with my 65 rh beads. It is now down to 56. I know that's not awful but I'd like to get it back up to the 63-65 range. So I added one of those humicare pillows to act as a catalyst along with the beads. Once it reaches the lower 60's I plan on taking to pillow out. Good idea? Bad idea?

[pnoon]

I just added the rest of my cigars to my humidor which obviously caused to rh to drop. It was sitting steady around 64 with my 65 rh beads. It is now down to 56. I know that's not awful but I'd like to get it back up to the 63-65 range. So I added one of those humicare pillows to act as a catalyst along with the beads. Once it reaches the lower 60's I plan on taking to pillow out. Good idea? Bad idea?
It's neither.
I would just leave the beads in there and let them do their job. It takes time. This hobby requires patience. Cigars are resilient. Many of us have cigars shipped from overseas with no humidification for days and sometimes weeks. Cigars at 56 RH and rising will be just fine.

Patience, Grasshopper.

:2

[Eros]

I don't know why i'm so anxious about it. My friend told me that cigars would dry out in like 1 day if the humidity dropped below the ideal 70%. So of course I believed him.

[JDee]

Is the humidor at Sam's club for $60 a good deal? It looks nice, but this would be my first humidor. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you.

[chippewastud79]

Is the humidor at Sam's club for $60 a good deal? It looks nice, but this would be my first humidor. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you.

Probably not. Do you have a link or picture? :hm

Try an online vendor with a good reputation, you may find better deals that may even include some cigars. :2

[pnoon]

I don't know why i'm so anxious about it. My friend told me that cigars would dry out in like 1 day if the humidity dropped below the ideal 70%. So of course I believed him.

You're friend is full of baloney.
Cigars will not dry out in a day.
While some folks prefer 70% RH, many also prefer mid and even low 60s.
70% as the "ideal" RH is bogus.

[JDee]

Probably not. Do you have a link or picture? :hm

Try an online vendor with a good reputation, you may find better deals that may even include some cigars. :2

I don't have a picture. It has a glass top, and a hygrometer you can view from the outside, spanish cedar. It looks nice, but obviously looks are not the primary factor. Can you recommend some sites I should look at, or some features that I should make sure a humidor has? Thank you,

[bobarian]

We have stickies on just about any subject someone starting in this hobbie could imagine. http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=621
I would also advise against a glasstop humidor when starting out. They look nice but are prone to leaking and can be difficult to set up. :2

[JDee]

We have stickies on just about any subject someone starting in this hobbie could imagine. http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=621
I would also advise against a glasstop humidor when starting out. They look nice but are prone to leaking and can be difficult to set up. :2

Thank you, very helpful!

[Minus_Blindfold]

How low is too low as far as humidity goes? Cuz I have 20 decent cigars in my humidor and its running at about 61% Will they be ok? Or should I consider another option? I always hear the 70/70 rule so, I'm pretty far from that!

[Trent0341]

How low is too low as far as humidity goes? Cuz I have 20 decent cigars in my humidor and its running at about 61% Will they be ok? Or should I consider another option? I always hear the 70/70 rule so, I'm pretty far from that!

Some people actually store them around 60%. I keep mine at 65% and others will tell you the "70/70" rule". Bottom line is keep them at what works best for you. Personally I'd like to keep them above 60% but thats not for everyone.

Edited to add: If you read the page just prior to this one you'll see a similar question and much the same response.

[icehog3]

As Dan said, it comes down to personal preference. I store mine around 62% and they smoke wonderfully.

[nayslayer]

ditto, 65 to 60

[irratebass]

I have a question about Xikar cutters, What is the difference between Xi-X3 cutters besides the price? I am thinking about getting my 1st bigboy cutter and I really like the Xi3 Multicolor one, but I am going by looks alone and not by performance, so what are the differences?

[Blak Smyth]

I have a question about Xikar cutters, What is the difference between Xi-X3 cutters besides the price? I am thinking about getting my 1st bigboy cutter and I really like the Xi3 Multicolor one, but I am going by looks alone and not by performance, so what are the differences?

I believe I read it was the components used. The newer models have better steel, spring, etc...

[irratebass]

I believe I read it was the components used. The newer models have better steel, spring, etc...

That makes the best sense...thanks bro :tu

[Bill86]

IIRC

Xi1 is aluminum, Xi2 is fiberglass, Xi3 is Titanium.

[smitty81]

When is my humidor ready to hold cigars?

Its been seasoning for about 4 days or so and the RH is at 65 according to the hygrometer.

Can I throw my beads in and cigars and call it good?

[cort]

When is my humidor ready to hold cigars?

Its been seasoning for about 4 days or so and the RH is at 65 according to the hygrometer.

Can I throw my beads in and cigars and call it good?

I would:tu

[theonlybear4CORT]

I agree with my hubby cort, load that sucker up.

[Pseudosacred]

The temperature in my humi hovers around 67 - 72 degrees. Those little fluctuations won't affect my sticks badly, right? The humidity stays at a constant 68

[pnoon]

The temperature in my humi hovers around 67 - 72 degrees. Those little fluctuations won't affect my sticks badly, right? The humidity stays at a constant 68

If your temp stays between 67 and 72 degrees, you are very fortunate. Can't get much more ideal temps than that.

[Pseudosacred]

Alright, that's good to hear. So, what is too extreme of a temperature for cigars?

Also, thanks for your quick response!

[kydsid]

Alright, that's good to hear. So, what is too extreme of a temperature for cigars?

Also, thanks for your quick response!



There is no real too extreme in temperature for cigars. You'll find a sticky here about freezing cigars, you'll find many posts including a stickied thread on how to do so safely here. Even 100+ degree heat isn't bad in and of itself.

Wild fluctuations are another issue. Take a cigar from a house at 80 deg outside to -40 and you will probably have an issue.

The biggest concern with temperature usually revolves around the hatching of the tobacco beetle. This pest is common and invasive in all the worlds tobacco crops. All producers use pest management to reduce its prescence in a finished product. But there is no way to be 100% rid of this pest. The tobacco beetle egg, which is usually what is present in a finished cigar, as the beetle lays its eggs on the leaf, hatches between 75 and 90 degrees.

Most evidence suggests that temperatures below 75 degrees will supress the hatching. Freezing for a sufficient time will kill most live eggs, again no pest control strategy is 100% effective, and this is why there is interest in doing so with cigars. A tobacco beetle outbreak in a box of cigars can render the entire box or more into useless dust given enough time.

So in essence the real concern with temperature is about storage not in usage or temporary conditions. Cigars all in all are tough things.

[Fredo456]

I haven't browsed through all this thread yet, so this may have been covered.

The only cigars available locally are those in plastic tubes (Cristales, Romeo y Julieta and Bances, from what I could gather from a phone call). They aren't kept in a humidor, so can they still be any good?

What should I look for when I go to the store?

Thanks.

[Remo]

I haven't browsed through all this thread yet, so this may have been covered.

The only cigars available locally are those in plastic tubes (Cristales, Romeo y Julieta and Bances, from what I could gather from a phone call). They aren't kept in a humidor, so can they still be any good?

What should I look for when I go to the store?

Thanks.

If they are not in a humidor, do not buy :tu Tubos are fine but they need to be humidified, try and locate a shop that has some sort of walk-in humidor or cabinet humidor.

[Fredo456]

Since they are the only ones locally available, is it possible to "save" them from their dryness, by gradually humidifying them?

The alternative is the Internet, and since I can't import from other countries or even other provinces, the choice is scarce.

[pnoon]

Since they are the only ones locally available, is it possible to "save" them from their dryness, by gradually humidifying them?

The alternative is the Internet, and since I can't import from other countries or even other provinces, the choice is scarce.

:confused:

Why is that? I've never heard of such limitations. Except, of course, the US mmbargo on Cuba.

[dwoodward]

Since they are the only ones locally available, is it possible to "save" them from their dryness, by gradually humidifying them?

The alternative is the Internet, and since I can't import from other countries or even other provinces, the choice is scarce.

We have many many Canadian members here that will tell you otherwise. I don't know where you heard such nonsense, completely untrue. ;)

[pnoon]

We have many many Canadian members here that will tell you otherwise. I don't know where you heard such nonsense, completely untrue. ;)

Think before you post, Grasshopper.

It could be that he has special circumstances. Such as part of a US Embassy or maybe being below a legal age. So before jumping to conclusions and making unsubstantiated claims, ask the questions. Such as "Why is that?". He may have an explanation that is not "such nonsense, completely untrue"

:2

[Fredo456]

We have many many Canadian members here that will tell you otherwise. I don't know where you heard such nonsense, completely untrue. ;)

OK, perhaps I just jumped to conclusions too fast about importing from other countries, and that after paying the taxes, I can do so.

However, an Internet site (I couldn't remember which, because i surfed a lot of them in the last days) stipulated that it was illegal for them to ship to other provinces.

I guess my new question would be: How much taxes do Quebeckers have to pay when importing cigars from abroad?

[smitty81]

OK, perhaps I just jumped to conclusions too fast about importing from other countries, and that after paying the taxes, I can do so.

However, an Internet site (I couldn't remember which, because i surfed a lot of them in the last days) stipulated that it was illegal for them to ship to other provinces.

I guess my new question would be: How much taxes do Quebeckers have to pay when importing cigars from abroad?

I think you over thought the above underlined phrase. Every country has different laws.

[Fredo456]

I think you over thought the above underlined phrase. Every country has different laws.

It was two provinces within Canada.

Two Internet companies, well regarded on this site (I'm not sure if I can name names) do not ship outside the US. I have not visited all the others (obviously), but I'd like to hear fom Canadian members, as to where they can order from, and how much taxes they have to pay upon reception of the cigars.

Thanks.

[Eros]

So after trying to slow season my humidor for the last three weeks, I have nothing to show for it. As soon as I take the shot glass out, the humidity plummets within days. I am assuming I have a leak, as it is a glass top humidor. I am getting impatient, and my cigars have been sitting in a tupperware box with a humi pillow thing for a couple of weeks now. Could I just place the cigars in the humi with the water filled shot glass to stabilize the humidity until I can afford a new humidor? Or would that be unwise?

[Emjaysmash]

So after trying to slow season my humidor for the last three weeks, I have nothing to show for it. As soon as I take the shot glass out, the humidity plummets within days. I am assuming I have a leak, as it is a glass top humidor. I am getting impatient, and my cigars have been sitting in a tupperware box with a humi pillow thing for a couple of weeks now. Could I just place the cigars in the humi with the water filled shot glass to stabilize the humidity until I can afford a new humidor? Or would that be unwise?

I would spend less money and buy the clear silicon sealant they use for aquariums and plug the leak.

[CigarNut]

So after trying to slow season my humidor for the last three weeks, I have nothing to show for it. As soon as I take the shot glass out, the humidity plummets within days. I am assuming I have a leak, as it is a glass top humidor. I am getting impatient, and my cigars have been sitting in a tupperware box with a humi pillow thing for a couple of weeks now. Could I just place the cigars in the humi with the water filled shot glass to stabilize the humidity until I can afford a new humidor? Or would that be unwise?Your cigars will be fine in the tupperware box -- especially since your humi is not holding a steady RH. If you place your cigars in the humidor now they will either get over humidified from the shot glass of water or, if you take the shot glass out then the cigars will dry out.

Fix your humidor and then put your cigars in it. Get get some aquarium grade for silicone sealant; seal around the glass and any other obvious areas (e.g., if there is a hole for a hygrometer, then seal around the hole).

Once you have resolved all of the leaks then your humidor will be able to do the job you need it to do. In the interim, the tupperware box is the best place for your cigars.

One thing you need to remember about this hobby: you need to be patient.

[Fredo456]

I keep reading about hygrometers having to be recalibrated. Some recommend to recalibrate after a sudden change in Rh.
Isn't the point of this tool to accurately indicate the rh of a given space? How accurate is it really, if one can't trust it and has to recalibrate it so often?

Thanks.

[Emjaysmash]

I keep reading about hygrometers having to be recalibrated. Some recommend to recalibrate after a sudden change in Rh.
Isn't the point of this tool to accurately indicate the rh of a given space? How accurate is it really, if one can't trust it and has to recalibrate it so often?

Thanks.

I've only salt tested (calibrated) my once. Although half the time now I don't look at it. I've gotten used to looking and feeling the cigars to make sure they arent too dry or wet.

[icehog3]

I keep reading about hygrometers having to be recalibrated. Some recommend to recalibrate after a sudden change in Rh.
Isn't the point of this tool to accurately indicate the rh of a given space? How accurate is it really, if one can't trust it and has to recalibrate it so often?

Thanks.

Sometimes things break, need new batteries, etc....I don't see where in the recommendation it implies that the need to recalibrate happens "often".

If your Rh was reading 65% steadily for a year, and suddenly was at 53%, it is wise to recalibrate your hygrometer to see if it is just "off", or if you do in fact have a much bigger problem with your humidor.

[CigarNut]

I keep reading about hygrometers having to be recalibrated. Some recommend to recalibrate after a sudden change in Rh.
Isn't the point of this tool to accurately indicate the rh of a given space? How accurate is it really, if one can't trust it and has to recalibrate it so often?

Thanks.

Like all things that run on batteries they wear out. Also, most digital hygrometers rely on the battery charge to maintain their calibration. As the batteries wear the calibration changes a little.

Also, it's not like it is a huge problem to check your hygrometer a few times a year.

[jluck]

I keep reading about hygrometers having to be recalibrated. Some recommend to recalibrate after a sudden change in Rh.
Isn't the point of this tool to accurately indicate the rh of a given space? How accurate is it really, if one can't trust it and has to recalibrate it so often?

Thanks.

I think you hear about it much more than needed, due to it's the first thing recommended when there is RH problems in a humidor, When the problem usually ends up being a seasoning (inpatients/owner) or leak issue. but its how a good RH base line is established. And the best tool we have that I'm aware of.

:tu

[Malazan]

I'm seasoning my new humidor I got Friday. The RH has stayed at 86% for 3 days now. How much longer should I wait, and is 86% ok for the seasoning process

[CigarNut]

Have you calibrated your hygrometer? If not, you need to do that ASAP; there are many threads discussing how best to do this.

I would give it at least a week, preferably two. 86% is not out of line since the seasoning process saturates the wood of the humidor. If you are really worried, take the moisture source out of your humidor and check the RH after several hours to see how far it drops.

[Malazan]

Yes, I calibrated it with a boveda pack, 75% exactly

[Eros]

I'm going on spring break this week and I need to keep my cigars as fresh as possible for a week. Would it be better for me to place them in my cigar caddy even though it doesn't have humidification? Or would a baggy or tupperware be better? I have about 10 cigars.

[T.G]

I'm going on spring break this week and I need to keep my cigars as fresh as possible for a week. Would it be better for me to place them in my cigar caddy even though it doesn't have humidification? Or would a baggy or tupperware be better? I have about 10 cigars.

Cigar caddies have rubber gaskets and seal at least just as well or possibly even better than tupperware. If your cigars are at the right humidity already, they should be fine for a week without any additional humidification.

If you are going to an exceptionally dry or wet climate, a 65% boveda pack will do a great job of keeping things from getting too wet or too dry (boveda packs are 2-way). Unlike the built in humidifier on the cigar caddy, here is virtually no chance of mold with a boveda pack. Lastly, since they are thin and will fit on top of the cigars, you can carry one without sacrificing any cigar space.

[Fredo456]

I started the calibration of my HygroSet Digital Hygrometer this morning, and the screen shuts down after a while. I have to press the "set" button for it to come back to life. I bought it new and took off the plastic tab from the battery compartment this morning, so it couldn't be the battery. Or could it? Or is it a normal function of the hygro?

Thanks.

[68TriShield]

In my experience,no.The screen should not go blank.

[CigarNut]

I started the calibration of my HygroSet Digital Hygrometer this morning, and the screen shuts down after a while. I have to press the "set" button for it to come back to life. I bought it new and took off the plastic tab from the battery compartment this morning, so it couldn't be the battery. Or could it? Or is it a normal function of the hygro?

Thanks.It sounds like a defective unit. I would go back to where you bought it and exchange it for a new one.

[racerX]

I know that opus x get better with a little age so I have started a stash. Do patron also age well or just about as good as any other?

[CigarNut]

According to the Padron family their cigars are not meant to be aged. Lots of people still age them with apparently good results.

Me, I like my Padron's too much to let them sit in my humi for long :)

[Fredo456]

I started the calibration of my HygroSet Digital Hygrometer this morning, and the screen shuts down after a while. I have to press the "set" button for it to come back to life. I bought it new and took off the plastic tab from the battery compartment this morning, so it couldn't be the battery. Or could it? Or is it a normal function of the hygro?

Thanks.

The problem seems to have resolved itself. The screen hasn't shut down since yesterday, so maybe it was just some jitters.

[CigarNut]

The problem seems to have resolved itself. The screen hasn't shut down since yesterday, so maybe it was just some jitters.

I would still recommend exchanging it - there may still be a problem and it's best to take care of it while you can.

[Fredo456]

Yes, it re-did it, I'll contact the seller.

[icehog3]

"Want to Buy" Forums come with a short amount of time and participation. A read through the rules of the Asylum will show that one must wait for access to the proper Forums before asking to Buy, Sell or Trade anything here.

[PenguinsFan88]

Can a punch punch any kind of cigar except torpedos????

[icehog3]

Can a punch punch any kind of cigar except torpedos????

Depends on the size of the punch versus the size of the cigar's ring gauge. My punch would not work on panatela or ninfa sized cigars.

[PenguinsFan88]

Depends on the size of the punch versus the size of the cigar's ring gauge. My punch would not work on panatela or ninfa sized cigars.

So basically they're a no-no on the long skinny ones eh?

[icehog3]

So basically they're a no-no on the long skinny ones eh?

Just not practical, the punch hole is as big as the head of the cigar. :D

[PenguinsFan88]

That works as I've never smoked a long n skinny. (*Cue "that's what she said" joke* I know I know...)

Even though I've only tried a handful of cigars so far, the smallest ring gauge I believe I've dealt with was on a Guantanamera Cristales. They have a ring gauge of 41. But for $5 their garbage IMO...yuck.

Being poor sucks lol.

[Blak Smyth]

That works as I've never smoked a long n skinny. (*Cue "that's what she said" joke* I know I know...)

Even though I've only tried a handful of cigars so far, the smallest ring gauge I believe I've dealt with was on a Guantanamera Cristales. They have a ring gauge of 41. But for $5 their garbage IMO...yuck.

Being poor sucks lol.

In my very limited experience with CCs, I have had several tasty and fairly cheap sticks. Fonseca Caddettes and PL Panatelas are a couple. I used to punch anything that was bigger than my blade but after a few tar problems I switched to cutting everything and haven't had a tar issue since. I do smoke mostly smaller RGs though. I try not to buy anything bigger than 42 RG if I can help it.

[PenguinsFan88]

So why is Colibri triple refined butane the only really good Canadian butane option?

Aside from the obvious about not being allowed to be on airplanes, or shipped by airplanes, or to go across the boarder due to safety reasons, why aren't there any places in Canada that distribute for wholesale or even sell the personal use cans say 5x refined Vector or the Xikar butane.

Surely a big Canadian cigar shop could stock that stuff if they wanted to right?

[kydsid]

So why is Colibri triple refined butane the only really good Canadian butane option?

Aside from the obvious about not being allowed to be on airplanes, or shipped by airplanes, or to go across the boarder due to safety reasons, why aren't there any places in Canada that distribute for wholesale or even sell the personal use cans say 5x refined Vector or the Xikar butane.

Surely a big Canadian cigar shop could stock that stuff if they wanted to right?


Has to be a purely economic reason. There is no real reason otherwise. It can go on aircraft, but cargo aircraft only, not passenger. As for crossing the border there is no restriction, just red tape in shipping a hazmat material, which is the same for any butane fuel being shipped (I can fully understand why a US retailer would not want to ship it to Canada due to the paperwork alone though). Sounds like you might have found a profittable side gig. :D

[PenguinsFan88]

Has to be a purely economic reason. There is no real reason otherwise. It can go on aircraft, but cargo aircraft only, not passenger. As for crossing the border there is no restriction, just red tape in shipping a hazmat material, which is the same for any butane fuel being shipped (I can fully understand why a US retailer would not want to ship it to Canada due to the paperwork alone though). Sounds like you might have found a profittable side gig. :D

Side gig eh? :D Yeah I'd be happy if I could persuade what will be my local B&M to start stocking Xikar or Vector butane lol.

Best they sell is Colibri apparantly.

[B-RiZzY]

Here's my question after a while of browsing the internet to no avail..

I started my humidifier off with just plain distilled water. I then went out and bought 50/50 solution but haven't used it yet. When I went to my local smoke shop, they told me my humidifier will grow mold if I start using the solution if I started off with distilled water. Can anyone confirm this? I wanted to use the solution, but I'm not going to chance it if I could start a mold problem.

[688sonarmen]

No. If it is 100% distilled water it by itself will not be the cause of a mold problem. The material you put it on/in may have spores in it and cigars as well. To keep a mold problem down you should keep you RH below 70% and your temps down as well. Pushing a constant 80f and up can give you mold problems. I started off using the 50/50 mix but tossed it due to $ and wanting my RH lower (around 63-65%)

[B-RiZzY]

Okay, thank you. How do you keep your RH down that low? Mine is finally down to 70, after fighting with it when it was around 74-75%. I'd like a lower RH, but I'm not sure how to keep it that low.

[688sonarmen]

Heartfelt beads.

http://www.heartfeltindustries.com/products.asp?cat=65%25+Rh+Humidity+Beads

Also stop here and post an intro http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?f=7

[chippewastud79]

Okay, thank you. How do you keep your RH down that low? Mine is finally down to 70, after fighting with it when it was around 74-75%. I'd like a lower RH, but I'm not sure how to keep it that low.

Heartfelt or HCM Beads. :tu

[B-RiZzY]

Heartfelt beads.

http://www.heartfeltindustries.com/products.asp?cat=65%25+Rh+Humidity+Beads

I will be picking up some of these soon. Do I only need one? And how long do they last?

Also stop here and post an intro http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?f=7

Done, thank you!

[bobarian]

I will be picking up some of these soon. Do I only need one? And how long do they last?


There is a calculator on the Heartfelt site.

I have been using Heartfelt beads for over 5 years. :tu

[B-RiZzY]

Oh, I think I get the gist of these. These appearantly replace my humidifier that's in there currently?

[bobarian]

Yes.

[B-RiZzY]

Okay, thank you very much. I will be picking these up soon.

[hyewiz]

I am not sure if this is the right place to ask this,

I like to know if anyone knows Cigar accessory stores In Montreal, I need to purchase Cigar Punch.

Thank you

[CigarJut]

When storing smokes in my humidor, should I take them out of the plastic or leave it on?

[CigarNut]

When storing smokes in my humidor, should I take them out of the plastic or leave it on?
Personal preference. The cello is there to protect the wrapper, however it is porous so it will allow some airflow. I usually leave it on.

[CigarJut]

Ok I have a torch lighter that I bought and use to light all my smokes. I was at an event this weekend where a guy saw me smoking and asked if he could get a light. I proceed to give him my lighter and he said “oh you don’t use matches, never mind” and walked away. So my question is do matches really provide a better experience?

[Remo]

Ok I have a torch lighter that I bought and use to light all my smokes. I was at an event this weekend where a guy saw me smoking and asked if he could get a light. I proceed to give him my lighter and he said “oh you don’t use matches, never mind” and walked away. So my question is do matches really provide a better experience?

Some people prefer matches, others lighters. I would seriously doubt that triple or quintuple refined butane has much or any more negative effect on a cigar than a match.....guy sounded like a tool, bring your own fookin matches azzhat!!

[bobarian]

Ok I have a torch lighter that I bought and use to light all my smokes. I was at an event this weekend where a guy saw me smoking and asked if he could get a light. I proceed to give him my lighter and he said “oh you don’t use matches, never mind” and walked away. So my question is do matches really provide a better experience?

Nope. Fire is fire, it is highly unlikely that the tobacco leaf knows the method of combustion. :2

FWIW some people will only smoke cigars rolled on the thighs of virgins. This guy sounds like he may be one of those smokers. :sh

[pnoon]

...guy sounded like a tool, bring your own fookin matches azzhat!!

What a d!ckhead.
Anybody that pompous doesn't deserve a light.
:2

[NCRadioMan]

Probably the kind of moron that has no idea how to work a torch lighter and didn't want to embarrass himself. There are many more than you would think.

If anyone tells you they can taste the butane from using a lighter, it's in their head because butane is odorless and tasteless.

[chachee52]

I know a guy that will only light a cigar with a burning piece of cedar. He won't even use a match because of the tip of the match isn't just wood.
Just as long as my cigar gets lit some how, I'm a happy man!

[Blak Smyth]

I know a few people who are completely clueless about cigars and they have asked "you can only use wooden matches to light, right?". It is a common myth amoungst non-smokers it seems.

[jluck]

What time of year is the tobacco harvest in Cuba? How long from harvest to earliest production?

Does anyone have a comprehensive life cycle of a tobacco leaf from seed to cigar?

[TJarv]

With my new winedor, how should I get the smell out? I've read on here to use baking soda, but do I just open the box and set it inside?

[CigarNut]

With my new winedor, how should I get the smell out? I've read on here to use baking soda, but do I just open the box and set it inside?
That should be fine Tony; give it a few days or a week. Also, if you put the baking soda on some small plates instead and use several of these plates it might work a little faster -- more of bhe baking soda's surface area will be exposed.

[TJarv]

That should be fine Tony; give it a few days or a week. Also, if you put the baking soda on some small plates instead and use several of these plates it might work a little faster -- more of bhe baking soda's surface area will be exposed.

Sounds good, thanks for the tip

[bobarian]

If the smell isnt too strong you can just wash out the inside with a wet sponge with some baking soda sprinkled on top. :2

[TJarv]

If the smell isnt too strong you can just wash out the inside with a wet sponge with some baking soda sprinkled on top. :2

It's pretty strong, so I'll probably let it sit inside for a few days then wipe it down

[theonlybear4CORT]

If the smell isnt too strong you can just wash out the inside with a wet sponge with some baking soda sprinkled on top. :2

Where we're you when I was single an had a 1 night er with this naive American chick in Arizona Bob?

[area51]

^Geeze

[Mentallyrechartd]

Really hope you meant to type naive, and not native...

[CigarJut]

Should I store cigars I got from mail order in my humidor for some amount of time before I smoke them. If so suggestions on how long?

[Blak Smyth]

Should I store cigars I got from mail order in my humidor for some amount of time before I smoke them. If so suggestions on how long?

There is no science here. Everybody does something different. I have smoked some ROTT with a good outcome, but most of the time I prefer to let them rest a few weeks. :2

[N2 GOLD]

No right or wrong way here. To each his own some will tell you store them other will say smoke them. It will always be what works best for you... :ss

[RHerrington]

No right or wrong way here. To each his own some will tell you store them other will say smoke them. It will always be what works best for you... :ss

I'd suggest do both, by buying multiples when possible. That way you can smoke that cigar you've been craving for and start the aging process at the same time :banger

[N2 GOLD]

I'd suggest do both, by buying multiples when possible. That way you can smoke that cigar you've been craving for and start the aging process at the same time :banger

Great suggestion... :tu trying is the only way to find out...

[Route 66]

How do I cool down the inside of my humidor when the ambient temperature in my home is 76 degrees?

[WittyUserName]

I recommend placing it in the coolest darkest place you can find. Basement, bottom of closet, etc..

[14holestogie]

I recommend placing it in the coolest darkest place you can find. Basement, bottom of closet, etc..

Yup, short of active refrigeration (vino), the only way to lower the humidor temperature is to lower the ambient temperature around the humidor. Keep it out of direct sunlight as well as that will actually get in hotter than ambient temperature.

I've been a basement storer for years.

[Route 66]

I don't have a basement, but the bottom of my closet sounds like a good idea. :tu

[Route 66]

The digital thermometer in my humidor still reads around 73 degrees. Is this a problem?

BTW, the RH is at 69-71%.

[pnoon]

The digital thermometer in my humidor still reads around 73 degrees. Is this a problem?

BTW, the RH is at 69-71%.

Most folks would be thrilled with 73 degrees.
If your RH is 69-71% and you are happy with the way your cigars smoke, that's fine, too. However, most people I know prefer their RH in the 60-65% range. But as long as you are happy with the way your sticks are smoking, that's all that matters.

[Route 66]

Most folks would be thrilled with 73 degrees.
If your RH is 69-71% and you are happy with the way your cigars smoke, that's fine, too. However, most people I know prefer their RH in the 60-65% range. But as long as you are happy with the way your sticks are smoking, that's all that matters.

Thanks for the reply. I don't feel that I know enough about it to know if I would prefer 70% or if I should try to get it down to 60-65%.

I was concerned that beetles may appear at 73 degrees and that would freak me out. :eek:

[pnoon]

Thanks for the reply. I don't feel that I know enough about it to know if I would prefer 70% or if I should try to get it down to 60-65%.

I was concerned that beetles may appear at 73 degrees and that would freak me out. :eek:

Some folks experience burn issues with RH at higher levels. If your cigars seem to you to be smoking fine, then don't sweat the RH. My concern would be that if your RH goes up even slightly, you will very likely experience burn problems. I prefer low to mid-60s RH not only for how they smoke but it provides a comfortable margin should the RH rise.

There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to beetles appearing. From what I have read (and I believe) is that sustained temps above 80 are where you really need to be concerned. Think of the climates in the DR, Cuba and Central America. A lot warmer than 73.

I live in San Diego, have no temp control in my humidor and only use the central AC sporadically when needed.

[Route 66]

Some folks experience burn issues with RH at higher levels. If your cigars seem to you to be smoking fine, then don't sweat the RH. My concern would be that if your RH goes up even slightly, you will very likely experience burn problems. I prefer low to mid-60s RH not only for how they smoke but it provides a comfortable margin should the RH rise.

There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to beetles appearing. From what I have read (and I believe) is that sustained temps above 80 are where you really need to be concerned. Think of the climates in the DR, Cuba and Central America. A lot warmer than 73.

I live in San Diego, have no temp control in my humidor and only use the central AC sporadically when needed.

Thanks. It sounds as if I can stop worrying about beetles because I have my central A/C set to come on at 76 degrees. :tu

[pnoon]

Thanks. It sounds as if I can stop worrying about beetles because I have my central A/C set to come on at 76 degrees. :tu

Glad to have helped.
As with anything in life, there are no guarantees. But if I were in your situation, I wouldn't be worrying.

[Route 66]

I have another couple of questions...

Is there a good place to buy cigars online?

Should I just buy them locally?

[CigarNut]

I have another couple of questions...

Is there a good place to buy cigars online?

Should I just buy them locally?
Search is your friend :)

There are a lot of Sticky threads in CA that list online retailers, peoples experiences, etc.

Needless to say, it is kind of a "religious" issue. Some people buy only online, some only local. The one thing to remember is that if you like having a local B&M then you need to support them otherwise, they may disappear.

Just my :2

[T.G]

I have another couple of questions...

Is there a good place to buy cigars online?

Should I just buy them locally?


There are quite a number of online vendors listed in the following thread:
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=1612

[bobarian]

You may pay a bit more at your local shop but a small business is always worth supporting. I try to buy singles at my local B&M but boxes from online vendors. :2

Where in California are you?

[Route 66]

I'm sure this has been asked before but I couldn't find an answer.

What does Herf mean?

[RHerrington]

A herf is a gathering of BOTL and SOTL to relax, unwind and smoke cigars. A herf can be as simple as two BOTL getting together for a smoke after work or it can be a full blowout with music, food, games, etc. The main theme of any herf is relaxation and camaraderie, everything else is secondary - even the cigars.

(shamelessly stolen from UrbanDictionary with some edits, because it fits pretty well with how I would define herf)

[T.G]

I'm sure this has been asked before but I couldn't find an answer.

What does Herf mean?

Smoking cigars with friends.

[Route 66]

I don't think my humidor is sealing the way it should. I seasoned it over time, prior to putting my cigars inside. Over the weeks, the RH just keeps dropping. Is there something I can apply to the edge of the lid where it meets the bottom portion to make it more air tight?

[Zanaspus]

I don't think my humidor is sealing the way it should. I seasoned it over time, prior to putting my cigars inside. Over the weeks, the RH just keeps dropping. Is there something I can apply to the edge of the lid where it meets the bottom portion to make it more air tight?

What are you using for humidification? Hint: the correct answer is beads. The second best is, "i'll soon have my beads."

[Route 66]

What are you using for humidification? Hint: the correct answer is beads. The second best is, "i'll soon have my beads."

I'm using 2 Xikar Cigar Bars filled with their PG solution. The Bars are filled with beads that expanded greatly when I poured the PG solution inside. The humidor is very small and will hold only about 30 cigars.

[CigarNut]

I'm using 2 Xikar Cigar Bars filled with their PG solution. The Bars are filled with beads that expanded greatly when I poured the PG solution inside. The humidor is very small and will hold only about 30 cigars.Those are not beads -- they are a gel that releases moisture in an uncontrolled fashion -- that is they do not help at all to regulate RH.

If your humidor is not holding humidity you can check for leaks (lots of threads here about how to do that) but the two simple ways are the "dollar bill" test and the flashlight test. Passing these tests does not mean that there are no leaks -- they can just help you to find leaks.

Also, you might just try re-seasoning your humidor -- give it a good long time -- like two weeks. There are lots of threads on how to do this as well.

Once you are satisfied that your humidor is holding humidity you can keep using the gel and PG (not recommended) or you pick up some beads (Heartfelt or Shilala** -- both are good products) and be on your way. :)

[Route 66]

Those are not beads -- they are a gel that releases moisture in an uncontrolled fashion -- that is they do not help at all to regulate RH.

If your humidor is not holding humidity you can check for leaks (lots of threads here about how to do that) but the two simple ways are the "dollar bill" test and the flashlight test. Passing these tests does not mean that there are no leaks -- they can just help you to find leaks.

Also, you might just try re-seasoning your humidor -- give it a good long time -- like two weeks. There are lots of threads on how to do this as well.

Once you are satisfied that your humidor is holding humidity you can keep using the gel and PG (not recommended) or you pick up some beads (Heartfelt or Shilala** -- both are good products) and be on your way. :)

You've given me a lot of good, useful information and I really appreciate it!

It sounds like I have some work to do. :tu

[ziggy4112003]

I know that opus x get better with a little age so I have started a stash. Do patron also age well or just about as good as any other?


I am a padron whore (excuse the lang); by no means a padron expert. So it is my experience that the 64's are best at right around 7 months rest in my humi, family reserves and 26 serie need no rest, save a week or so if I choose. The x000 I have only bought by singles and have not let rest for any amount of time, so am unable to relate any experience. I buy the PAM's and reserve by the box to save some on cost, so I shoot to have them smoked within the year, and if I find I can not I will gift em, but that is just me. So yeah family reserves and 26's have a better rounded and balance of the flavor profile, the 64's tend to be more sharp in the flavor profile I have found 7 months the perfect amount of time for my palate to create the a more perfect balance so to speak. But Padrons serie and family reserves are amazing rott and I have let a 45 age for a period of 2 to 2 1/2 years and it seemed to have lost a little something, not much at all mind you but a little, was still amazing so... yeah those are my two cents.

[Eros]

In general, how long does it take for cigars to be ruined as a result of temp/humidity? I am super paranoid about my cigars for some reason. I am leaving on a trip tomorrow and I plan on taking my tupperdor. It's winter where I live so if they sit in a car for 3 hours that isnt exactly between 60-70 degrees will they be ok? I'll be driving so they won't freeze or anything but still.

[bobarian]

In most parts of the US, a cigar can be placed out on the counter for several weeks with no negative effects.

[Eros]

Weeks? Really?

[CigarNut]

In most parts of the US, a cigar can be placed out on the counter for several weeks with no negative effects.

Weeks? Really?
Bob is wise! Cigars are much more resiliant than people given them credit for.

[Eros]

So I removed my beads from my tupperdor and the humidity went from 76 to 70 and is holding. Is this ok or should I put the beads back in?

[The Poet]

So I removed my beads from my tupperdor and the humidity went from 76 to 70 and is holding. Is this ok or should I put the beads back in?

Even if this gets your cigars a bit too "wet", you can solve the problem by "dryboxing" them for a few days before you smoke 'em. By this I mean stick a few sticks into an empty cigar box to allow the extra moisture to dissipate.

[Eros]

Don't have any cigar boxes:/ I only buy singles or 5 packs.

[The Poet]

Don't have any cigar boxes:/ I only buy singles or 5 packs.


Life's a b*tch, ain't it. :r

Do you get your smokes at a local B&M? Ask them to sell, or give you, one of their empty boxes. For your purpose, there's not much diff between a wooden cabinet or a dress box.

Some of the websites (like CI) also sell empty boxes too.

P.S. - You COULD ask nicely for one of the brothers here to send you something, but be forewarned: It is likely to come with escorts.

[bobarian]

So I removed my beads from my tupperdor and the humidity went from 76 to 70 and is holding. Is this ok or should I put the beads back in?

Thay'll be fine at 70 or even lower. I keep mine at 62-65%. But honestly I dont even have hygrometers in either my vinotemps or desktops. They'll be fine without the beads. After a week or so, if the Rh drops below 60 just throw the beads back in for a few days.

At the higher Rh(76) you risk mold forming. I rarely drybox my cigars, I find that proper storage eliminates the need to ever drybox. :2

[Carlos.Talavera]

How do i get my humidor to the right humidity?

[Zane]

How do i get my humidor to the right humidity?

With a well seasoned humidor and a humidification device it should stabilize around 65 to 70. If you post your current situation I am sure we can help.

[CigarNut]

How do i get my humidor to the right humidity?

With a well seasoned humidor and a humidification device it should stabilize around 65 to 70. If you post your current situation I am sure we can help.
As Zane said we need a little more information:

-- What kind of humidor?
-- How big is your humidor?
-- Is it seasoned already?
-- And most important, how OCD are you about this whole thing?

First, the "right" humidity is a matter of personal choice. Some people like sticks wet (>= 70% RH), some like them dry (<= 65% RH).

If you are going to be OCD over this then there are lots of things to do. You can search the threads here -- there is a lot of good information.

If you are not OCD, then season your humidor, get some 65% RH beads (Heartfelt or HCM), get a hygrometer and put it all together and sit back and have a cigar :)

The one thing I cannot stress enough (regardless of whether or not you are OCD): take the time to properly season your humidor. Do not rush this -- give it at least a week. Preferably two weeks.

(BTW, I don't mean anything negative when I say "OCD"; some people obsess about their cigar storage (OCD) and some don't (not OCD). Don't make a big fuss over cigar storage unless you want to and enjoy making a big fuss over it. Cigars are very resilient.).

[Bondo 287]

How do i get my humidor to the right humidity?

Hello Carlos. Hey your question is somewhat generic. The guys need some information here. Let me explain.

You need to properly season your humidor, or it will steal humidity from your cigars.
Tell us what kind of humidor you have.

You use the humidification device to maintain the humidity. It will be beads, packets, or a plastic puck ( or bar ) with a sponge in it.
Tell us what kind of humidification device you have.

You use the hygrometer to read and monitor the humidity inside your humidor. It may be a mechanical one, ( analog ) or a digital one.
Likely it will have to be calibrated or at least verified accurate.
Tell us what kind of hygrometer do you have.

Whatever you are doing over there, my friend, make sure you are using distilled water, not tap water.

Sorry if you know this stuff already, but we need the input. I see it's almost midnight over there. So let us know.
All this is relatively easy. It's like a terrarium, once you're set up, you then can enjoy your hobby and occasionally maintain it. :banger

[Carlos.Talavera]

Hello again guys,

ok well lets start with the humidor i bought it from jrcigars.com it is from the quality importers company, the manual that came with it says it is made from spanish cedar that is kiln dried.

ok about the seasoning part the instructions told me NOT to wipe the inside with distilled water it told me to put a shot glass with distilled water in the humidor and let it sit there with the hygrometer in it. at the end of 2 to 3 days it was supposed to be seasoned and reading 75% humidity (this never happened) so i thought maybe the hygrometer might have been faulty so i purchased a digital one followed all the calibration instructions for that but i couldn't get that to read above 60% humidity. in the mean time the cigars i had already ordered had already arrived and had been sitting around so i wanted to get them in there so i ordered two drymistat sticks that were supposed to get the humidor to 70% all the time but that isn't working either so i have those in there and the two plastic pucks with the foam inside that it came with i have those filled with the pre mixed solution. oh and the humidor is a 100 count humidor. so with all that being said i don't know what else to do and the little bit of cigars that i do have are just getting dryer so what do i do guys.

[CigarNut]

First, take your cigars out of the humidor and place them in a tupperware container or ziploc bags and they will be fine.

Go back and season your humidor until it holds humidity. Otherwise, the humidor is just going to dry out your cigars.

Use a sponge to season your humidor as there is more surface area than a shot glass full of water. You can pick up a new sponge for under a $1; soak it with distilled water, place it on a small plate and stick it in your humidor.

If your hygrometer does not calibrate then return it and get another one. How are you trying to calibrate it? (Salt or Boveda pack?)

The pucks and dri-mistat tubes do not regulate humidity. They just release moisture until the humidor (and your cigars) are saturated. However, they are better than nothing.

Good luck and don't fret -- this will all come out OK!

[Carlos.Talavera]

thank you i will try that. and i used the salt should i buy one of those packs???

[bobarian]

A salt slurry will work just fine. Be sure to leave it in the bag with the hygrometer for at least 24 hours. Another trick I've used is to start out at 100% Rh by wrapping the hygrometer in a completely moistened paper towel until it reads 100%(usually about 1/2 hour). Then remove the paper towel and place in the bag with the salt slurry. :2

[Cookee]

Was curious if there was an issue using Zippo; sorry if this was answered already but when I searched did not turn up. I did read up on lighter posting but nothing mention about Zippo. I only ask because for Christmas received a really nice engraved Zippo for present and know they got it for me for cigar smoking. Comments, concerns I should know about?

[14holestogie]

Was curious if there was an issue using Zippo; sorry if this was answered already but when I searched did not turn up. I did read up on lighter posting but nothing mention about Zippo. I only ask because for Christmas received a really nice engraved Zippo for present and know they got it for me for cigar smoking. Comments, concerns I should know about?

Lighter fluid may impart some unwanted flavor on the cigar. Butane is your friend. :2

[Zane]

Was curious if there was an issue using Zippo; sorry if this was answered already but when I searched did not turn up. I did read up on lighter posting but nothing mention about Zippo. I only ask because for Christmas received a really nice engraved Zippo for present and know they got it for me for cigar smoking. Comments, concerns I should know about?

You can get a butane insert for it. Not sure how well they work.

[icehog3]

You can get a butane insert for it. Not sure how well they work.

I have a couple, they work well.

[Cookee]

I have a couple, they work well.

May I ask where you got yours from, if you remember sir?

[14holestogie]

May I ask where you got yours from, if you remember sir?

Amazon and EEbay have them online. Look for "z insert".

[bonjing]

If you check amazon it's called z-plus or something like that

[icehog3]

replicant argent (Pete) has them on his site.

http://www.stogietorch.com/Z-Torch.html

[Zane]

I was surprised to see them at my local B&M today.

[Eros]

I recharged my beads and the humidity jumped to 73-74. Is that too high to keep my cigars at?

[Zane]

I recharged my beads and the humidity jumped to 73-74. Is that too high to keep my cigars at?

Really its a personal choice based on how well they smoke for you. If it gets to high you risk mold. If you want to lower it just toss in some extra cedar.

[Eros]

I don't have cedar :/

[14holestogie]

I don't have cedar :/

If you've got a hair dryer, try drying the beads a bit. Or take them out of the humi and let them airdry for a day or two. Your smokes should survive. :2

[chippewastud79]

I don't have cedar :/

Just open the humidor for a while. Its winter, its dry, it will dry out relatively quickly. :2

[CigarNut]

Just open the humidor for a while. Its winter, its dry, it will dry out relatively quickly. :2
Just open the humidor for a while. Its winter, its dry, it will dry out relatively quickly. :2

I would recommend that you just take the beads out of your humidor and let them dry out for a bit (hours, not days).

That might be better than exposing your cigars. Cigars are resiliant, but why put them through changes to humidity needlessly.

[Eros]

I have a tupperdor and I was wondering if I am maintaining it correctly. I bought it a year ago, cleaned it out, placed my cigars and humidification beads in it along with a hygrometer. It is holding steady at about 68/68. Is this ideal or should I leave the lid open? Also, does having a tupperdor diminish cigar quality?

[T.G]

I have a tupperdor and I was wondering if I am maintaining it correctly. I bought it a year ago, cleaned it out, placed my cigars and humidification beads in it along with a hygrometer. It is holding steady at about 68/68. Is this ideal or should I leave the lid open? Also, does having a tupperdor diminish cigar quality?

Sounds fine.

[jetsman2806]

hello all, I am relatively new to this. I am looking into getting a humidor for myself and was wondering if anyone could recommend any type or model in particular. Looking for something that can hold around 25 cigars.

I was looking over at ebay & amazon earlier and found a few different types but before i make a purchase i would prefer to get some more info on what exactly i would need other than the humidor (i keep hearing about crystals/drymist?).

Apologies if this has been addressed earlier in the thread.

thanks

[galaga]

Actually I would recommend that you get some humidity beads and any humidor that you think will be built well enough to contain the light of a flashlight from showing in a dark room. However, if you want to go the route of a sponge and solution, the box you buy may already come with these. Good enough. Personally, I would use a Tupperware box if I was just starting out, get a bead tube and use that, but I understand the beauty of the humidor.

[CamoFlogged]

hello all, I am relatively new to this. I am looking into getting a humidor for myself and was wondering if anyone could recommend any type or model in particular. Looking for something that can hold around 25 cigars...

thanks

Hey Norman, there is so much information already covered on this in the forum and you will get answers from using Tupperware containers, to coolers, to zip lock bags, to jars, to humidors. All of these if done correctly are exactly what you need. Do you want it to look pretty sitting on a desk, do you just want your cigars to be at the proper humidity level and don't care what the container looks like. SOOOO much good information inside here.

I will offer a suggestion and you could get 100 different opinions after mine.

Go to a local brick and motar (B&M) cigar shop or go online to a good retailer and get a package deal. You can get a small humidor, cutter, package of cigars, lighter, humidifier, etc. for $40 and up. This will give you everything you need to start the process at least plus start figuring out what cigars you like. Samplers packs are also great as you get to try a bunch of different cigars for a lower cost.

For a small humidor like this, you don't need much humidification if the humidor seals well. Then as you learn more about cigars and your stash grows, you can buy a larger humidor or cooler and really create a nice collection. The beauty is you can then hand down your smaller items to a new person and get them on the road of enjoying cigars.

My :2

[jetsman2806]

Actually I would recommend that you get some humidity beads and any humidor that you think will be built well enough to contain the light of a flashlight from showing in a dark room. However, if you want to go the route of a sponge and solution, the box you buy may already come with these. Good enough. Personally, I would use a Tupperware box if I was just starting out, get a bead tube and use that, but I understand the beauty of the humidor.


ok cool i will check it out thanks.



Hey Norman, there is so much information already covered on this in the forum and you will get answers from using Tupperware containers, to coolers, to zip lock bags, to jars, to humidors. All of these if done correctly are exactly what you need. Do you want it to look pretty sitting on a desk, do you just want your cigars to be at the proper humidity level and don't care what the container looks like. SOOOO much good information inside here.

I will offer a suggestion and you could get 100 different opinions after mine.

Go to a local brick and motar (B&M) cigar shop or go online to a good retailer and get a package deal. You can get a small humidor, cutter, package of cigars, lighter, humidifier, etc. for $40 and up. This will give you everything you need to start the process at least plus start figuring out what cigars you like. Samplers packs are also great as you get to try a bunch of different cigars for a lower cost.

For a small humidor like this, you don't need much humidification if the humidor seals well. Then as you learn more about cigars and your stash grows, you can buy a larger humidor or cooler and really create a nice collection. The beauty is you can then hand down your smaller items to a new person and get them on the road of enjoying cigars.

My :2


i'll check through the forum and see the different types you mentioned. personally i dont mind getting a humidor that i can place on my desk it does have a nice look to it lol, but until i actually get one a temp setup could work fine.

thanks very much for your advice.

[CamoFlogged]

How much you looking to spend there Norman?

[jetsman2806]

How much you looking to spend there Norman?

anywhere between $30-$60 us i am cool with.

i already have something on my desk that i may be able to convert currently looking on amazon at a humidifier and a hygrometer. but still curious as i dont think the current case is air tight , also its lined with felt and not cedar. so i have some thinking to do.

[CamoFlogged]

Type in Google "Humidor Combos" and start from there. Might as well get some goodies thrown in if you buy one.

[jetsman2806]

Type in Google "Humidor Combos" and start from there. Might as well get some goodies thrown in if you buy one.

thanks Jeff :tu

[Sadden]

www.Cheaphumidors.com
http://www.heartfeltindustries.com/products.asp?cat=65%25+Rh+Humidity+Beads

I wouldn't really recommend getting anything smaller than a 50ct. 100-150 is ideal. A 25ct will fill up much quicker than you think. That and a small tube of heartfelt beads and your in good shape.

If you get a humidor with an analog hygrometer you can salt test it and make sure its reasonably accurate and wait to spend money on an expensive digital hygro.

[jetsman2806]

www.Cheaphumidors.com
http://www.heartfeltindustries.com/products.asp?cat=65%25+Rh+Humidity+Beads

I wouldn't really recommend getting anything smaller than a 50ct. 100-150 is ideal. A 25ct will fill up much quicker than you think. That and a small tube of heartfelt beads and your in good shape.

If you get a humidor with an analog hygrometer you can salt test it and make sure its reasonably accurate and wait to spend money on an expensive digital hygro.


thanks i'll keep it in mind. right now i basically visit the cigar shop once a week and pick up a few so the most i will have at any one time (right now) is about 10 , i keep getting a new one every time i drop by.

[bretted432]

Kind of a beginner question, but what do you find to be the minimum you need to spend to get a good "upper level" cigar, if that makes sense?

[Lurchy]

Anyone know had one of my first cigars the other day had an acid wafe was delicious but I can't find any more in any stores. Do they carry them anymore or is there another one like it?

[NCRadioMan]

Kind of a beginner question, but what do you find to be the minimum you need to spend to get a good "upper level" cigar, if that makes sense?

Price doesn't have to be a major factor as there are some really nice $3-5 cigars and some really crappy $10-15 cigars and vice-versa.

:2

[NCRadioMan]

Anyone know had one of my first cigars the other day had an acid wafe was delicious but I can't find any more in any stores. Do they carry them anymore or is there another one like it?

The Acid Wafe is still made and is available in many places. The next time you are in your local b&m, ask about them and see if they continue to offer them. If not, they are easily available online.

Drew Estates also makes the same size (Wafe) in the Java line they make for Rocky Patel but it tastes much different than the Acid, as all other cigars do. Acid's are in a category by themselves and definitely not for everyone but if you like them, smoke away!

[pegger]

Joined the forum yesterday and received my 50ct humidor today...... and to say that I am a little confused would be a huge understatement.

Wipe it with water, bowl of distilled water, sponges, beads, gel.... boveda??

Would really like to get it right the first time so what is the best way to season a new humidor, after it is seasoned what is the easiest most efficient way to keep the RH at a proper level?

I live in Winnipeg, Canada so winters are pretty harsh.

I am sorry, I know this question has probably been asked and answered a billion times......

I appreciate any and all assistance.

Greg

[pattersong]

Congratulations on your purchase....I know winnipeg winters very well (a dry cold, right??) :)


Lots of opinions on seasoning a humidor. I roll with boveda and love it.


Buy a boveda seasoning kit. Follow the instructions and then maintain with the Boveda RH of your choice. I have a 50ct desktop that has been rock solid on 3 72% boveda packs now for 10 months. They're rated for 3 months, but I am now approaching 10 months with no issues.

Oh...and during winter, I put my entire humidor into a very large zip lock bag.

Next time I'm in town, we should meet up at Thomas Hinds.

[AdamJoshua]

Joined the forum yesterday and received my 50ct humidor today...... and to say that I am a little confused would be a huge understatement.

Wipe it with water, bowl of distilled water, sponges, beads, gel.... boveda??

Would really like to get it right the first time so what is the best way to season a new humidor, after it is seasoned what is the easiest most efficient way to keep the RH at a proper level?

I live in Winnipeg, Canada so winters are pretty harsh.

I am sorry, I know this question has probably been asked and answered a billion times......

I appreciate any and all assistance.

Greg

Do NOT wipe it with water, water has a good chance of warping the wood and you won't have that super tight seal you want.

Either get a seasoning pack or just use a sponge, dampen the sponge with distilled (make sure it is distilled) water and place it on a plate inside the humidor, close it up and leave it closed, don't keep checking on it, let it sit for a couple days and check the sponge, you might have to re-dampen it a couple of times. Then after a few days drop in your hygrometer and close it back up, check it after a day or so and see where it's at.

After you get it seasoned I would suggest Shilia Beads, there are links all over the site for them :)

Best of luck!

[pegger]

Thanks Greg and Adam..... I appreciate your recommendations......

Greg

[WhiteMamba]

I have used the boveda but in all honesty I have found that the sponge method works just as well and is cheaper if you're on a budget :2

[pegger]

Thanks Michael, I did elect to go with the sponge and distilled water in the saucer..... Seems to be working OK.

RH went from 59% when I received the humidifier to 87% on day 2.

Wondering how long you should leave the sponge in? When does the RH rise taper off.....??

[CigarNut]

There is a lot of info here (Search is your friend :)) including a whole thread on Seasoning: http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=620.

The bottom line is that cigars require patience. Give your humidor more time to season. At least a week. More is better.

[Byaah]

I have a question about lighting a cigar. I *plan* on getting a torch when I can afford it but the question is not about what I should buy, but how do you do it?

How close to you hold the flame?

Do you draw while lighting?

If you hold the flame close, do you let it make contact?

How long should you light a cigar? What I mean is, you can light it in 2 seconds (and I assume burn the tobacco more than you should?) or do you normally take 20, 30, 40 seconds to do it?

If my cigar goes out (I really try to never let this happen) I will cut just above where the tobacco was burning and start "fresh" and do the whole thing over again, is this the proper way to handle this situation?

Last question will be weird, so I will try and explain it the best I can but if I make no sense, just don't worry about it, maybe my palate is dumb and needs to put in some more time:

Sometimes when I smoke cigars, about 1/2 way through the cigar, it will get a very "green" taste to it. Kind of grassy, almost like it's to young (pure speculation, just trying to describe it). The taste is not very pleasant, I don't know if I smoking the cigar to fast or what?

[Remo]

Hottest part of the flame is above what you can see, basically holding the foot above the flame while rotating the stick "toasting" so the foot is evenly lit, once it is all red I blow on it to make sure it is lit all around before drawing....as for last question, some cigars are just shitty :r...but it could be a wet cigar, smoking to fast (gets hot) or your palate just may not like it.

[AdamJoshua]

YouTube has a ton of cigar related videos, reviews on accessories and how to cut and light cigars. :) Happy Hunting!

[Remo]

Go to Walgreens and get a Ronson torch for $5

[Ogre]

Go to Walgreens and get a Ronson torch for $5

:tpd::tpd:

[Byaah]

Go to Walgreens and get a Ronson torch for $5


Yup, my roommate just got home and gave me one of them today!

[LaugaBoy]

Alright. So, I'm looking for a humidor and I need some brand suggestions. I want something that I can check the RH without having to open it, but I don't want anything to expensive. I've just gotten into the hobby, and finding a place that sells premium cigars is a challenge itself. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[AdamJoshua]

I believe by "premium cigars" Apex was talking about a cigar store, not grabbing Black n Milds at the Shell station, although if those float your boat more power to you. Usually a "B and M" (brick and mortar) store.

If you are just starting you can find cheapy humidors online, or you can go the Tupador route, it's as simple as a good Tupperware type container and a boli pack for humidity, till you figure out if you are even really into cigars and you start down the slope. :2

[pnoon]

Alright. So, I'm looking for a humidor and I need some brand suggestions. I want something that I can check the RH without having to open it, but I don't want anything to expensive. I've just gotten into the hobby, and finding a place that sells premium cigars is a challenge itself. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Lots of threads here on just that subject. Search on "humidor" in the thread title and that should get you started. If you want specific recommendations, you need to tell us your budget and what size (capacity) you are looking for. There are other storage alternatives. Take some time to look around and read. Lots of good information here.

[JLMraider]

So I have a mini fridge out in the garage that has ceased working. I've seen many pictures of wine fridges and the like converted to humidors (fridgadors, winadors, etc.) My question is, is it as simple as sticking some cedar, a humidifier and cigars inside and shutting the door? Or do these ___-adors need to be plugged in and running for whatever reason?

-Miller

[Wharf Rat]

So I have a mini fridge out in the garage that has ceased working. I've seen many pictures of wine fridges and the like converted to humidors (fridgadors, winadors, etc.) My question is, is it as simple as sticking some cedar, a humidifier and cigars inside and shutting the door? Or do these ___-adors need to be plugged in and running for whatever reason?

-Miller

Welcome to the Asylum!

Most humidors are basically boxes that sit out in the room. Their internal temperature is at the mercy of the room. Some folks like to build humidors into wine fridges to control the temperature. Or, maybe they like the way it looks. You could use a non-working fridge as the basis for a humidor with no temperature control, or use a picnic cooler.

Why control temperature? Probably, most of us don't. Our houses probably are conditioned to stay in a fairly small temperature range. If you suspect your room might get quite warm, then tobacco beetles could be a factor. You can search for info on that elsewhere on the site.

[Porch Dweller]

Welcome to the Asylum!

Most humidors are basically boxes that sit out in the room. Their internal temperature is at the mercy of the room. Some folks like to build humidors into wine fridges to control the temperature. Or, maybe they like the way it looks. You could use a non-working fridge as the basis for a humidor with no temperature control, or use a picnic cooler.

Why control temperature? Probably, most of us don't. Our houses probably are conditioned to stay in a fairly small temperature range. If you suspect your room might get quite warm, then tobacco beetles could be a factor. You can search for info on that elsewhere on the site.

This. The room where my wineador sits is the warmest room in our house. Even with the thermostat set to 72* that room will get up to 75-76* during the summer. So I keep the wineador running then just for peace of mind. Then from late fall to late spring I unplug it.

[MagicDrop]

Heartfelt beads and HCM beads is there a difference?

[CigarNut]

Heartfelt beads and HCM beads is there a difference?

There is a difference, but both products work well and while I am biased toward HCM beads, you cannot go wrong with either product.

[MagicDrop]

Thank you. Last time I hung around here everyone told me to get heartfelt now I see HMC in everyone's signature. So I was wondering. I also saw cheaphumidors sells a bead but I went with heartfelt

[Amr]

Hi!

I'm building a humidor. Did some research and as many would recommend will make the interiors of Spanish cidar. My question is: is it OK to build the outer box completely out of mahogany? Thanks in advance!

[BlkDrew]

Perfectly fine to build the exterior out of mahogany. Usually humidor a are made from a variety of woods, and then lined with Spanish cedar.

[T.G]

Hi!

I'm building a humidor. Did some research and as many would recommend will make the interiors of Spanish cidar. My question is: is it OK to build the outer box completely out of mahogany? Thanks in advance!

You can build the whole thing out of mahogany if you want. Spanish cedar is not a cedar, it's actually in the mahogany family. At one time, humidors used to be built entirely out of mahogany, spanish cedar came to prevalence due to it's lower cost and greater availability.

[icehog3]

Deja vu all over again?

[Amr]

Perfectly fine to build the exterior out of mahogany. Usually humidor a are made from a variety of woods, and then lined with Spanish cedar.

Many thanks

[Amr]

You can build the whole thing out of mahogany if you want. Spanish cedar is not a cedar, it's actually in the mahogany family. At one time, humidors used to be built entirely out of mahogany, spanish cedar came to prevalence due to it's lower cost and greater availability.

Many thanks

[luther]

If I seasoned my humidor with Boveda packs can I later on switch to a humidifier? Vice versa for that matter. My first humidor I seasoned by wiping it down, etc and using a humidifier. Can I switch that one to Boveda packs?

Thanks

[luther]

Purchased a second humidor (25-30 count) and I seasoned it for two weeks with 84% packs. I have about 15 sticks in there with 72% packs (I now have three) and the humidity level won't raise past 66%. I have a digital (rectangular xicar 833XI that can not be calibrated). These supposedly come pre calibrated and there isn't even a calibration button to push.

Anyway, first time using the Boveda packs and I'm wondering what peoples' thoughts are that the 72% packs have not raised the level past 66%.

Thanks

[massphatness]

Couple thoughts:

* I've never had an issue with Boveda packs but that doesn't mean you don't have mis-calibrated packs

* Your humidor may be leaking humidity because of a bad seal. I'm hoping smarter guys than me can offer suggestions on how to test.

* Salt test your hygrometer - you may find that its reading is off and you'll need to account for that when looking at the display. If you're unfamiliar with the salt test method, use the search function here. Pretty sure there's a how-to thread. Boveda also sells a hygrometer test kit that allows you seal your device in a bag for a couple days to check the veracity of the reading.
Posted via Mobile Device

[pnoon]

* Salt test your hygrometer - you may find that its reading is off and you'll need to account for that when looking at the display. If you're unfamiliar with the salt test method, use the search function here. Pretty sure there's a how-to thread. Boveda also sells a hygrometer test kit that allows you seal your device in a bag for a couple days to check the veracity of the reading.
Posted via Mobile Device

Absolutely the first thing you should do. Also, make sure you have a digital hygrometer. The analog ones are just for show and are grossly inaccurate.

[luther]

I have a digital. There is not a calibration button on my new digital. I have done the salt test before but have always pushed the calibration button on my other digital. Make sense?

[markem]

I have a digital. There is not a calibration button on my new digital. I have done the salt test before but have always pushed the calibration button on my other digital. Make sense?

I have a digital with several remotes (Oregon Scientific). What I do is salt test them but then remember how far off they are. One is almost spot on and one is 1-1.5 % high on each testing. I number them to keep them straight. Btw, I salt test for 48 hours usually as that allows the whole environment better time to stabilize. I use a small tupperware like container.

Your hygrometer does NOT have to be perfect, it just has to be stable. If 72% is equal to 66% (after you check with a salt test, that is), then you know to subtract 6% to get the true reading. After a while, you will know that "when the gauge reads X" is where I like my sticks.

For example, the hygrometer unit that came with my Aristocrat is set to 60% right now. The hygrometer that is nearby reads 58%. The once at the bottom of the MX reads 59%. The one at the bottom is the one that is off, so I think that it is actually 2-3% higher at the top than bottom, based on calibrated results over many years. I don't sweat that they all read different because I know my humidor.

After time, you will also trust your humidor more than your gauges, provided you don't have any leaks.

Best of luck!

[luther]

Salt test should have it reading 75% correct?

[AdamJoshua]

Salt test should have it reading 75% correct?

Correct :tu

[luther]

So after the salt test if my hygrometer reads 70% I simply add 5% to the reading after it is placed in my humidor?

Appreciate all the insight!

[T.G]

Yup

[luther]

Did a salt test for both of my hygrometers. My old one is registering 68% with 69% Boveda packs in one humidor and my new one reads 66% with 72% packs. My new hygrometer read 7% below my old one. 66 + 7 = 73 so I'm close.

So, I think I'm good to go. Thanks for your help!

[AdamJoshua]

:tu Did you sign up for the NST (newbie sampler trade) in the new members area? It's a wonderful thing!

[luther]

No but I will go check it out. Thx

[luther]

Let me start off by saying I do not have beetles in either of my humidors but I still have a concern. I keep reading that my humidor should be at 70 degrees to prevent the bugs. However, we keep our AC set at around 74 or 75 to prevent insane energy costs. Am I taking a huge risk here? I have had my old humidor for ten years and have had no problems. If it matters as far as answers I live in the Midwest. Thanks!

[icehog3]

Is there a cooler spot in your place that you can keep the humidors? Opinions may vary on how great the risk, but the risk is certainly there.

[HailTheBrownLeaf]

What's the biggest RG that I can punch with a Xikar 11mm punch???

[TXRebel]

What's the biggest RG that I can punch with a Xikar 11mm punch???

As big as they make, just punch more than once.

https://www.famous-smoke.com/cigaradvisor/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/CIover.jpg

[HailTheBrownLeaf]

As big as they make, just punch more than once.

https://www.famous-smoke.com/cigaradvisor/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/CIover.jpg

Thanks.

Usually I'll use my Xikar Xi cutters as I'm not one for sticks over 54-56RG generally. But I grabbed a Xikar 11mm punch the other day for if I ever get stuck with a honkin' "jawbreaker" of a stick.

On the flip side I also grabbed an 8mm Adorini bullet punch as well for the few smaller RG Cubans that I like.

[AdamJoshua]

They also work well on torpedoes.

http://i.imgur.com/UEwP0dM.jpg

[HailTheBrownLeaf]

They also work well on torpedoes.

http://i.imgur.com/UEwP0dM.jpg

:r

[Yamasa]

I have a question that did not come up in forum search.

Has anyone ever used a submersion heater to get the water in the humidifier up in temperature?
My humidor is in the basement which generally averages 16 C, or about 61 F, and depending on furnace cycles can be 15 C.
I would like it to get to somewhere around 20 C or 68 F, and wondering if this is an option.

Thanks,

[AdamJoshua]

Not sure why you would want to raise the temperature, man of the old cigar shots in countries like England store their cigars in damp cold basements, the same as they have for over 100 years and they are amazing cigars. I think you'd be just fine where you're at, I suppose if you thought the water was going to freeze inside the humidor that would be one thing, but doesn't seem that's the case. FWIW many people will freeze cigars when they get them to kill any beetle eggs, then store them away.

[Yamasa]

Well, I suppose I just thought that the current temp is too low.
I'm not sure what the optimum is. When I go to a vendor with about a million $ of high end inventory the humidor is controlled at 72-72 and the cigars are great to smoke, many of them displaying bloom.

I have frozen cigars when I got them, however only those from a manufacturer that does not freeze before shipping. Again, the vendor is my guide for that information.

Perhaps I am just needlessly fretting for an exactness that is irrelevant?

[AdamJoshua]

Well, I suppose I just thought that the current temp is too low.
I'm not sure what the optimum is. When I go to a vendor with about a million $ of high end inventory the humidor is controlled at 72-72 and the cigars are great to smoke, many of them displaying bloom.

I have frozen cigars when I got them, however only those from a manufacturer that does not freeze before shipping. Again, the vendor is my guide for that information.

Perhaps I am just needlessly fretting for an exactness that is irrelevant?

Yup I think you are worrying too much and vendors usually keep their sticks pretty wet, well that's extremely wet to me, I am in the 62-63 range, just personal preference and when I have smoked or tried to smoke them in the 70 range I felt like I was relighting often and had more wonky burns, again personal opinion and tastes. :tu

[T.G]

Well, I suppose I just thought that the current temp is too low.
I'm not sure what the optimum is. When I go to a vendor with about a million $ of high end inventory the humidor is controlled at 72-72 and the cigars are great to smoke, many of them displaying bloom.


My money is on mold at those temps and humidity.

[AdamJoshua]

My money is on mold at those temps and humidity.

Nice catch Other Adam, I totally missed that :lr

[icehog3]

Love that 72/72 bloom. ;)

[Yamasa]

My money is on mold at those temps and humidity.

Nyet, not mold. Actually I smoked a 4 year old Dirty Rat there on Friday and it had significant bloom. A great complement to the richness of the cigar due to the sweetness of the bloom. It tasted like pure, raw, cane sugar and had clear colour.

Next time I go there in a month or less, I will ask permission to take a pic of a tray of 20 Padron 1964 LE in full bloom on the shelf, probably 3 years old, and post it here.

Then you can decide for yourselves.

[CigarNut]

Most times people mistake mold for Bloom or plume. Mold is fuzzy. Plume or bloom is crystalline.

[T.G]

Nyet, not mold. Actually I smoked a 4 year old Dirty Rat there on Friday and it had significant bloom. A great complement to the richness of the cigar due to the sweetness of the bloom. It tasted like pure, raw, cane sugar and had clear colour.

Next time I go there in a month or less, I will ask permission to take a pic of a tray of 20 Padron 1964 LE in full bloom on the shelf, probably 3 years old, and post it here.

Then you can decide for yourselves.


Wish I had a nickel for every time I've heard that.

Could have bought a couple boxes of Behikes by now.

[Yamasa]

Most times people mistake mold for Bloom or plume. Mold is fuzzy. Plume or bloom is crystalline.

Absolutely. Very small delicate crystals without a colour different than the cigar.

However, the humidor is completely regulated with a cigar manufacturers version.

Unlike at home, I just have the cabinet humidor. As an example of what our ambient RH is the other day it was snowing when I woke up and the RH in basement was 31. At noon it stopped snowing and the evening ambient RH was 20 on a calibrated digital gauge.

So we all have different conditions to adapt to, it is a matter of what is good for the cigars. Just opening the door to take out a cigar drops the RH from 69 to 67 in a matter of 30 seconds on that gauge, and even further on the controller humidistat.

[AdamJoshua]

Wish I had a nickel for every time I've heard that.

Could have bought a couple boxes of Behikes by now.

what's a behike I've never tried one of those before :noon

[Yamasa]

Cigar Bloom as promised.
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=1094&pictureid=9063

[Yamasa]

Wish I had a nickel for every time I've heard that.

Could have bought a couple boxes of Behikes by now.

You can send me the Behikes now.:noon

[AdamJoshua]

Cigar Bloom as promised.
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=1094&pictureid=9063

:lv

[pnoon]

Cigar Bloom as promised.
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=1094&pictureid=9063

Sorry, Sir. That is mold.

[Yamasa]

Sorry, Sir. That is mold.

Fair enough, however could you tell me why all the material I have seen from cigar makers lists tobacco mold on cigars as a distinctive blue colour?

Also, mold is not hard and crystalline as these speckles are, I have smoked them and the crystals do not degenerate or disappear until either licked (at which point they taste like cane sugar) or smoked again, taste like cane).

Perhaps one man's mold is anothers' bloom.:D

[T.G]

Cigar Bloom as promised.
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=1094&pictureid=9063

Sorry, that's mold.

You can send me the Behikes now.:noon

Don't hold your breath kid.

Fair enough, however could you tell me why all the material I have seen from cigar makers lists tobacco mold on cigars as a distinctive blue colour?

Also, mold is not hard and crystalline as these speckles are, I have smoked them and the crystals do not degenerate or disappear until either licked (at which point they taste like cane sugar) or smoked again, taste like cane).

Perhaps one man's mold is anothers' bloom.:D

Mold comes in various colors. White is fairly common actually. Mold forms unevenly and tends to be splotchy, exactly like the cigars you took a photo of.

You could be dealing with old mold, basically happened some time ago, then the humidity issue was corrected, and the colony stopped growing and dried up. Think of a standing dead tree.

Perhaps ignorance is bliss to the misinformed and inexperienced.

[icehog3]

The few times I have received moldy cigars from a vendor, the mold has been white.

[pnoon]

Fair enough, however could you tell me why all the material I have seen from cigar makers lists tobacco mold on cigars as a distinctive blue colour?

Also, mold is not hard and crystalline as these speckles are, I have smoked them and the crystals do not degenerate or disappear until either licked (at which point they taste like cane sugar) or smoked again, taste like cane).

Perhaps one man's mold is anothers' bloom.:D

Seriously?!?!?!?
Can you point us to such material? If it is blue (or green), it is mold. No pics necessary for that. Cigar makers/retailers telling you that are trying to sell you their $hit.

[Yamasa]

Sorry, that's mold.



Don't hold your breath kid.



Mold comes in various colors. White is fairly common actually. Mold forms unevenly and tends to be splotchy, exactly like the cigars you took a photo of.

You could be dealing with old mold, basically happened some time ago, then the humidity issue was corrected, and the colony stopped growing and dried up. Think of a standing dead tree.

Perhaps ignorance is bliss to the misinformed and inexperienced.

Perhaps

[AdamJoshua]

Perhaps

I would suggest you stop licking those cigars though :lr

[AdamJoshua]

I would suggest you stop licking those cigars though :lr

This is from the very first link googling cigar mold. From JRcigars.

What is Mold?

Most of us are familiar with the look of mold after discovering it on old bread or leftovers that stayed in the fridge too long. The type that affects cigars is very similar. Unlike plume, mold can present itself in an array of unattractive colors including green, yellow, gray, blue and white. Mold is such a menace to your collection because this nasty substance is alive – it can grow and spread.

Edit: Adding link.

https://www.jrcigars.com/blending-room/university/mold_plume/2015/06/22/

[Yamasa]

This is from the very first link googling cigar mold. From JRcigars.



Edit: Adding link.

https://www.jrcigars.com/blending-room/university/mold_plume/2015/06/22/

Well, I guess there are differing opinions by people more knowledgeable than I am.
http://www.cigars4dummies.com/cigar-repair/mold-on-cigars.html

Here are pictures describing the difference between white mold and white spots - Plume or bloom. Decide for yourselves.
Does it really matter in the long run? As long as it is white, small, crystalline, and hard, if they smoke and taste really good I'll smoke 'em.:D

[T.G]

Well, I guess there are differing opinions by people more knowledgeable than I am.
http://www.cigars4dummies.com/cigar-repair/mold-on-cigars.html

Here are pictures describing the difference between white mold and white spots - Plume or bloom. Decide for yourselves.
Does it really matter in the long run? As long as it is white, small, crystalline, and hard, if they smoke and taste really good I'll smoke 'em.:D

mk05, is that you?