How to Light a Cigar With a Lighter (Without Ruining the Flavor)

Lighting a cigar isn’t like flicking a cigarette or a candle. It’s a slow, deliberate ritual, one that sets the tone for the entire smoking experience. Done right, it unlocks the full flavor profile the cigar maker intended. Done wrong, and you risk bitterness, uneven burning, or even ruining a premium stogie before you’ve had the first puff.

If you’ve ever asked yourself whether you can use a BIC lighter, how to get an even burn, or what the proper technique is - this guide covers it all.

Can You Light a Cigar with a Regular Lighter?

Yes, you can, but it’s not ideal. Disposable lighters like BICs use butane and can technically light your cigar, but their weak flame and awkward angle often lead to uneven burns (and burned fingers).

If you’re serious about your smokes, invest in a proper cigar lighter with a clean, odorless flame.

How to Light a Cigar: The 5-Step Method

Cigars are tightly packed, all-natural, and handcrafted to burn slowly. That means you need to light them with care to fully enjoy their complex flavor notes and even draw.

Here’s a five-step guide to lighting your cigar like a pro:

1. Choose the Right Cigar for the Moment

Before the flame ever touches the foot, consider your cigar choice. Cigars come in various shapes (parejos vs figurados), ring gauges, and strengths.

If you're new to cigars, go for a mild blend like a petite corona. If you’re smoking outdoors, avoid smaller cigars that are more sensitive to wind.

Bonus Tip: Give the cigar a gentle sniff. If the aroma appeals to you, chances are the flavor will too.

2. Cut the Cap (Just the Right Amount)

Use a high-quality cigar cutter, not your teeth or kitchen scissors. Slice off only about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the head of the cigar, just enough to expose the filler without unraveling the wrapper.
A clean cut allows for a smoother draw and helps prevent canoeing (uneven burning).

If you prefer punch cutters or V-cuts, no problem! Just make sure the opening is wide enough for airflow without cracking the cap.

3. Select the Best Flame Source

Your flame can make or break your cigar. Avoid scented candles or lighter fluid-based flames (we’re looking at you, Zippo). These add unpleasant flavors to your smoke.

Use these instead:

• Torch lighters (butane, single to quad flame): Clean, powerful, and wind-resistant.

• Soft flame butane lighters: Gentle and precise for indoor use.

• Wooden matches: Classic and clean, just let the sulfur burn off first.

• Cedar spills: For the purist. They add a subtle woodsy aroma and are a favorite among traditionalists.

Want a full breakdown of cigar lighter types? Check out: 4 Types of Lighters for Cigars That Every Aficionado Should Know

4. Toast and Light the Cigar (The Right Way)

Step 1: Toast the foot

Hold the cigar just above your flame, about half an inch, and rotate it slowly. Don't let the flame touch the tobacco directly. The goal here is to evenly blacken the outer rim of the foot. This preheats the cigar and prevents tunneling.

Step 2: Light while puffing

Now raise the cigar to your mouth and puff gently as you rotate the foot over the flame. Keep the cigar at a 30 to 45-degree angle and avoid jamming it into the flame.

You want a slow ignition that builds heat evenly, not a scorched mess that burns hot and fast.

Step 3: Inspect the burn

Pull the cigar from your mouth and take a look. The foot should be evenly glowing. If not, touch up any unlit spots with the edge of your flame or gently blow on the foot to coax out an even cherry.

5. Sit Back, Relax, and Savor

Now that you’ve lit your cigar correctly, take your time. Cigars aren’t meant to be rushed. Puff slowly about once every 60 to 90 seconds. Smoking too quickly can overheat the cigar and distort its flavors.

Find a cozy spot, settle into the moment, and enjoy the aroma, taste, and ritual that make cigar smoking a timeless indulgence.

Pro Tips: Fixing an Uneven Burn

Even with proper lighting, cigars can burn unevenly. Here’s how to fix it:

• Touch it up: Use your torch lighter to gently even out the unburned areas.

• Purge the cigar: Blow gently through the cigar to remove built-up impurities.

• Slow down: Overpuffing causes uneven burning, so pace yourself.

How to Light a Cigar Without a Lighter at All

In rare situations where you have no lighter, no matches, and no cedar spills - don't panic. These unconventional methods can work:

Electric Stove Coil

Turn on the burner and hold the cigar just above the glowing coil, rotating slowly to toast the foot. Be careful not to touch the coil directly or overheat the cigar.

Campfire or Fireplace

Use a clean, unscented stick to catch a flame from the fire. Use that flame to toast and light your cigar. Avoid putting the cigar directly into the fire to prevent scorching.

While these methods can get the job done, they’re not recommended for regular use. Consider them emergency solutions only.

Why Your Cigar Lighter Choice Still Matters

Even if your technique is flawless, your choice of lighter can affect the taste and consistency of the cigar. A premium torch lighter doesn’t just look cool - it gives you precision, control, and peace of mind.

Torch lighters are especially helpful for large ring gauge cigars, windy conditions, and quick touch-ups. For best results, keep one in your cigar kit, and maybe a few BICs around the house just in case.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Light—Ignite the Experience

Lighting a cigar isn’t a race. It’s a ritual. With the right tools and a little patience, you can unlock the full flavor, aroma, and craftsmanship of every cigar you smoke.

Master the five steps. Invest in the right flame. And if you’re ready to explore different cigar lighter types and choose the one that fits your style best, head over to our Cigar Accessories Collection for premium lighters, cutters, ashtrays, and more.

And don’t forget, preserving your cigars is just as important as lighting them properly. Explore our Cigar Humidor Cabinets for the best in long-term cigar storage. Whether you're a casual enthusiast or a serious collector, our cabinets ensure your cigars age gracefully and stay in perfect smoking condition.