subject: Can I Finish My Cigar Later If I Only Smoke It Halfway? [print this page] The amount of lore and hearsay surrounding cigar smoking is incredible. Numerous myths have grown up surrounding this pastime that can confuse numerous first time smokers. One of the most commonly heard myths is that you should only smoke a cigar halfway before extinguishing it. Other myths concern lighting the cigar and using pipe lighters, how to use wood shavings and how matches should be the only options used to light a cigar. To understand the art and become the consummate cigar aficionado, you must be able to tell the difference between truth and myth. You must also find what works best for you.
For instance, it is not necessarily true that you should only smoke your cigar halfway down. Actually, the rule to follow is that your cigar is finished when you want it to be. However, many people do smoke their cigars only about 1/2 to 2/3 of the way down the length. Why is this? Why do you see so many seasoned cigar smokers light up with pipe lighters, only to put their cigar down before they're fully finished with it? The reason stems from the same reason people pick up a cigar and light it in the first place, enjoyment. Smoking a cigar is all about relaxation and enjoyment. As the cigar burns down, it becomes hotter. It also changes flavors. During the combustion process, tars, oils, nicotine and other by products, including moisture, buildup in the tip of the cigar.
Obviously, these elements can drastically change the way that cigar tastes and can ruin your enjoyment very quickly. However, if you find that you are continuing to enjoy your cigar as the burning end nears your fingers, it is fine to go on smoking it. The habits and enjoyments of all cigar smokers are not the same and you need not let the wants and rules of other smokers dictate the way in which you enjoy your cigar. For instance, some smokers will never touch pipe lighters to ignite their cigars, believing that they impart a chemical taste. However, if you ensure that you make use of butane lighters, the taste of chemicals is not present. Even so, many smokers are loath to pick up a lighter for fear of ruining their enjoyment.
Smoke your cigars, use pipe lighters and other items as you see fit. Your smoking is about your enjoyment, not adherence to some imagined rule set.
