If you’re a cigar smoker, you know that one of the most frustrating experiences is lighting up a cigar only to find that it has a bad draw. A bad draw can make it difficult to enjoy your cigar, leaving you with a mouthful of smoke and a less than satisfying experience. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to fix a bad draw and get the most out of your cigar.
- Check the Cut
One of the most common causes of a bad draw is a poorly cut cigar. If the cut is too shallow, the draw will be tight, and you’ll have trouble getting enough smoke. If the cut is too deep, the draw will be loose, and the cigar will burn too quickly. To check the cut, look at the end of the cigar and make sure the opening is wide enough to allow for a smooth draw. If it’s too narrow, try cutting a little more off the end until you get the right size.
- Check the Humidity
Another possible cause of a bad draw is the humidity level of the cigar. If the cigar is too dry, the tobacco will be too tightly packed, making it difficult to draw. If the cigar is too moist, the tobacco will be too loose, causing the cigar to burn too quickly. To check the humidity, gently squeeze the cigar between your fingers. If it feels too dry, try storing it in a humidor for a few days to restore moisture. If it feels too moist, leave it out of the humidor for a little while to dry out.
- Check the Roll
The way a cigar is rolled can also affect the draw. If the cigar is rolled too tightly, the draw will be difficult, and you’ll have trouble getting enough smoke. If the cigar is rolled too loosely, the tobacco will burn too quickly, and the cigar will be difficult to smoke. To check the roll, gently squeeze the cigar from end to end. It should feel firm but not too tight or too loose.
- Try a Cigar Poker
If you’ve tried all of these steps and your cigar still has a bad draw, you may want to try a cigar poker. A cigar poker is a small tool that can be inserted into the end of the cigar to help loosen the tobacco and improve the draw. Insert the poker gently and slowly, being careful not to damage the wrapper. Once the poker is inserted, gently move it around to loosen the tobacco and improve the draw.
In conclusion, a bad draw can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to fix it. Check the cut, humidity, and roll of the cigar, and try a cigar poker if needed. With a little patience and some troubleshooting, you can enjoy a smooth, satisfying smoke