How to Compare Cigar Lighters

The most important thing you want to look for is a wick. If the lighter has a wick, you do not want to use it for a cigar. A wick guarantees that the impurities of the lighter fluid will be imparted to the cigar. Try a butane lighter instead, which will alter the cigar's aroma less.

Look for the word "torch" when selecting the cigar lighter. You can test to see if the lighter is considered a torch by igniting the lighter. If the flame flickers, it is not a torch. If the the flame stands upright, it is probably a torch. This ensures greater precision in applying the flame to your cigar which will yield an even toasting of the end. It also makes the lighter wind-proof, which is an additional bonus.

Look for a lighter with multiple flames. You can check for this by lighting the torch and seeing how many jets of flame arise from the lighter. If there is more than one jet the lighter is a multi-flame torch. Many such lighters have three flames. This ensures greater precision during the lighting process.

Many lighters will incorporate other features into the lighter base. One common addition is a cutter. Some lighters have the cutter swing out of the base while others actually have a hole in the base into which you place the cigar. This addition can be very handy if you do not have a separate cutter, or if you keep losing cutters.

Try lighting a cigar with your lighter. Lightly toast the edge evenly while moving the flame back and forth around the end of the cigar. The lighter should feel good in your hand, be precise, have a steady flame, and give an even toast to your cigar.

Take a few even draws on your cigar. Make sure that the lighter is not imparting any additional flavors or aromas.