EliteCM.net

A lot of us enjoy a nice cigar so I figured we could start a cigar thread.

I had an Ezra Zion inception tonight. It was a darker full flavor cigar. Pretty good. It would have went great with a latte.

It's actually been a few months since I've had a cigar.  I've just been too busy with work and other shit that I haven't had time.  Also, my friend that I usually smoke cigars with had oral surgery so he can't smoke right now.

I did get a new humidor for Christmas though.  I'm seasoning it right now.  I'm taking the slow approach to it this time around.  There are different schools of thought when it comes to seasoning a humidor.  Some say wipe it down with a damp cloth, others say that's the worst thing you can do.  I'm going to avoid the wipedown method.  Instead, I have 2 gel bottles, a gel humidification device, and the cheap-o humidification device that came with my humidor.  I'm guessing it should take about 5-7 days to get it seasoned properly and up to about 70% humidity.

As far as cigars I've enjoyed recently, I've really enjoyed the Oliva Series G.  That has been my recent "go to" cigar whenever I visit the shop.  I'll have to post some pictures of my set up when I get my humidor seasoned.  Now I have a smaller humidor that I will hopefully keep out in the garage in fairer weather.

That's awesome Tim, I'd like to have a small humidor at the house.

I've got a tabak robusto in a zip lock bag with a humidity pack waiting in my bedroom. I may get around to it today or Wednesday

Small 10-15 cigar humidors are relatively inexpensive.  You can pick one up for about $30.  Make sure to get one that is cedar lined, not a cedar veneer inside.  The veneer is way too thin.  My humidor came from Thompson Cigars.  They sell a lot of good humidors at a reasonable price, plus you can get all the additional stuff like a gel bead humidifier, PG solution, and a digital hygrometer.  All of those are a must for a humidor.

I just checked everything in my new humidor and it was up to about 62% humidity from 40% when I set everything up last night.  I have two 2 oz gel bead jars in the bottom, a gel bead humidifier in the lid, the shitty foam filled humidifier on the upper tray and a small shot glass filled with water.  I'm surprised how fast the humidity came up overnight.  I think it might be ready for me to move my cigars over into it when I get home tomorrow night.

I def want pics of this. You never got around to the CAO I sent you did you?

I haven't gotten around to smoking it.  Work has been crazy busy and my smoking buddy has been unable to smoke.  Now that I'm on vacation, I should have some time to enjoy a smoke.  I've gotta get a heater for my garage soon.

I didn't get around to my tabak today but hopefully this week

I'm hoping to smoke one of the cigars I have this week.  Let's hope the weather is nice enough.

It doesn't look like it will be here. I may go to the tobacconist Friday. They have old barber shop chairs and a 50 inch LCDtv.

I need to upgrade my humidor am still using the wipe and foam setup i hear some run on batteries which i prefer the clean setup yet functional

There are humidification devices that you can use that run on batteries.  I've seen them run around $100-300 depending on what you want.  Some use pre-filled cartridges that are not refillable.  There are others that you can refill on your own.  The cost associated with purchasing non-refillable cartridges is not worth it for me when you compare the cost to a gallon of distilled water or even PG solution.

It's been a few days that I've been seasoning my humidor by only putting humidification devices in it.  The highest humidity reached was 65%, which is a preferred level for some aficionados.  I want to get to 70% just to be safe, but I can't seem to get past 65%.

I'm pretty sure I've been doing everything properly to season my humidor to bring it up to the proper humidity.  At first it seemed that the humidity fluctuated in my humidor, so I checked the seal on it and "tweaked" the cedar in the lid to get a tighter fit.  After that it seemed like I wasn't able to get the humidity to stabilize around 65-70%.  Last night I decided to check the calibration of my hygrometer using the "salt" method.  After 8 hours, it was at 50%.  So that means it's reading 25% low.  I decided to pull the battery and "reset" it to see if that might fix the issue.  Now I have to wait another 8 hours to see if it's going to still sit at 50% humidity, or if it's going to get closer to 75%.  I have a feeling that it's going to be sitting around 50% when I wake up tomorrow.  The one thing that I don't like about the hygrometer is that you can't calibrate it like some models, so I ordered a Xikar hygrometer that can be calibrated.

I should probably be moving my cigars over to the new humidor tomorrow night.  As long as I can be sure it's close to 70% rh with only the humidifier and 2 gel jars, I'll be good to go and ready to fill it up with more sticks.

Don't know all that much about cigars, only that I enjoy a good one every now and then.  I was in Florida a couple weeks ago for my birthday and smoked about 9 in 5 days, and while most were "meh", 2 of them really stood out:  I had a cigar made by Acid (I buy their hookah tobacco all the time) and my all time favorite to this point, a Makers Mark cigar.  Comes sealed in glass tubes with the red wax, but the flavor, mellowness, and smoothness of the smoke was absolutely exquisite!

Just wanted to contribute! haha.

I picked up 2 more Opus X's, 2 Anejo Reserves, and a Liga Pravada No 9 and T52.  I'm tempted to go back to the shop I went to so I can pick up some more.  These are all supposed to be some top notch smokes.

I wish I could get an opus x, they sell out within the day they arrive here.

Last year i was into La Aurora 100 Años Belicoso cigars but i been meaning to try a opus x but so many options to choose from

What do you look for when cigar shopping?  I just found a cigar shop in the mall near me and when I went in to make a purchase, I really had no clue what to buy.  Other than going off the price tags, I had no clue which were good and which weren't. 

I get to know the shop owner, let them know that you're new to cigars and ask for suggestions.

What Tim Said. The tobacconist will more than likely recommend a sweet flavored cigar or a lighter unflavored cigar. I got started with the Kahlua blend cigars(they dont exist any more). The Tabak Especial Dulce is very similar though

I would get to know the shop owner, let them know that you're new to cigars and ask for suggestions. I still do that when I buy cigars. I'm always asking for suggestions.

Since my tobacconist is rather large, we have cigar reps there all the time, I often ask them for recommendations. Their recommendations often end with a free cigar or swag.

Free sticks are always nice. I haven't seen a rep at the spot I usually go to. The only other shop that's near me isn't that great.

Rep for Nestor Miranda is often in our shop. A few times a year he brings the "not for sale" cigar. It's delicious. I got 2 of them, one if which I had sent to my buddy(rocketstarter, from here a few years ago) who was deployed.

Hmmm. A not for sale cigar. Sounds interesting.

I'll try to snag you one next time he is there

When you make the trip up here I'll take you the place I pick up most of my cigars.  I've been working on filling up my humidor with some good and somewhat hard to find smokes.  I want to take the time to age them so I can really enjoy them down the road when the weather is nicer.  I'm also planning on getting a few cigars this year around my birthday so I can age them for some milestone birthdays that I have coming up.

Tim, do you use a cigar caddy when you travel?

I don't have anything that I use for travel right now. I would like to pick up something that's cedar lined though. I've been considering one of the Xikar travel cases though. I definitely want something before I go on vacation in March.

I think the Aston case is cedar lined. I'd like to pick up a cigar caddy. It's sort of like a pelican case

I think they're all pretty much the same.  A case lined with foam and a humidification device.  I've seen some 3 and 5 cigar cases that are lined with cedar.  I did find a cedar lined travel case though.  I may get one of the Xikar/Cigar Caddy/Cigar Mechanic 15 cigar cases for traveling though.  I figure I can bring a few smokes with me, but at the same time have enough room in case I find a nice shop wherever I'm visiting and hopefully pick up a few smokes.  That's what I did when I was in Denver.


I wanted to revisit your question and make a comment on the part of your statement in bold.  Cigars are a funny thing, where price doesn't mean quality.  Just because a cigar is expensive, doesn't mean that it's good.  Inversely, just because a cigar is inexpensive, it doesn't mean it's bad.  I've smoked really good $5 cigars and had expensive cigars that weren't very good at all.  Price is no indicator of quality.  That's why I made the suggestion to speak to the tobacconist in the shop and get some suggestions.  You may want to make a small list and pick up one at a time when you try them.  I'm assuming that you don't have a humidor, so you'll want your smoke to be fresh.  

If I would make a suggestion on a few cigars to start with, I would ask for an Arturo Fuente Short Story and an Oliva Serie G.  I have also had a few $5-6 Rocky Patel's that were very satisfying.  I'm partial to the Oliva, but the Short Story is a very popular cigar among a lot of my friends.  My only complaint about it is that it has a harder draw than I prefer.

I'll write those down and try them out.   

I was going to ask the tobacconist for recommendations last time I was in the shop but I was worried they would just try to push the more expensive cigars on me, regardless of quality. 

If it's a good shop, they'll try and get you the right cigar and not just sell you.  Considering that you would be a repeat customer, they would be foolish to burn you on your first visit.  It's always important when you speak with them to tell them what you have tried and liked or didn't like.  Another thing is to give them a price range of what you're looking for.  Here's a video that may help you out.

Tips for Buying a Cigar | Cigar Aficionado (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypPt4_5SWDk#)

So, I've spent a little bit of money recently to fill up my humidor a little more.  I've been on a mission to get my hands on some more Arturo Fuente Añejo's and Fuente Fuente Opus X's to let them age.  I was able to pick up a few more Añejo #46's and #50's today, but no Opus X's.  I'm going to try and go to another shop I usually go to and see if they have any Opus X's left.  I also picked up some Liga Privada No 9's and a T52, a bunch of different Oliva Serie G's and V's, some Padron 1926's and 1964's, and a few others.  Here's an updated pic of what I picked up recently.

(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/jan112013top_zpsc4168872.jpeg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/jan112013bottom_zps962fbf30.jpeg)

I'm now looking for some additional dividers for my humidor.  I think I may need to pick up a travel humidor soon too.  I've been looking at the Cigar Mechanic and Xikar ones.

What are the flavor notes with the oliva G?

I'm not really good with that sort of stuff.  One of the reviews I've read about the torpedo is that it starts off with floral and cedar with hints of spice, develops with undertones of coffee and toast, then finishes with spicy leather flavors with a slight nuttiness and cinnamon.  All I know is that it's a smoke that I've enjoyed more than once, so I keep trying different sizes.

I'll have to pick one of those up

Definitely.  I've really enjoyed the Oliva's overall.  I started off trying the Serie G and really enjoyed it.  I know the Serie V is also a really good choice.  I have a few Nub's that are also made by Oliva and a Connecticut wrapper Oliva that I'm going to get around to trying.

Sounds like its all over the fucking place. LoL.

Headed to my tobacconist in a bit. They have the añejo 46, I'm going to try one

Well, they didn't have any of the expensive cigars I wanted so I went with an oliva G. Was very good except for the humidity problems causing the wrapper to crack

Just got back from a trip down to Cincinnati where there's another shop that I go to.  The last time I was there, they had a few Opus X's and Añejo's.  They only had a 3 count tin of the Opus X Rare Estate Reserve's.  I also picked up the Añejo #55.  I was looking for a #77 Shark, but those seem to have sold out almost immediately.  I was told that if I want to get a few Shark's next year, to go in and let them know that I'm interested in picking up a few so they can set some aside for me when they get their shipment in.  For those that may be looking for one next year, start pestering your tobacconist for one a few weeks before Thanksgiving.

Ohh yeah.  I also picked up a Tatuaje Little Monsters box.  They come out around Halloween, but I guess they didn't fly off the shelves.  Upon reading some reviews, they seem to be quite popular.  I thought the box was cute and they came highly recommended from the tobacconist.  I will be looking forward to enjoying these down the road.
(http://regencycigar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Tatuaje_little_monsters.jpg)


For tonight, I'm planning on something quick.  I'm going to have an Oliva Serie G Maduro Special G.  I'll let you know how I like it.  I usually go for a natural, but this may be a nice change of pace.  

The regulars sitting across from us outside last night were talking about a cigar shop in Cincinnati called governors. One guy said he bought a whole box of opus x from the owner.

There's a Governor's Smoke Shop in Columbus, but I didn't find anything by that name in Cincinnati.  I'm guessing that I won't find any more Opus X's until Valentine's Day.

That's probably it, they were talking about cinci and mentioned Columbus too

Governor's Smoke Shop was just recommended to me by a local guy on a cigar forum I just joined after lurking for about a month.


Actually, when you read any cigar review it's like that.  Most of the time people will describe the development of a cigar in 3rds.  Other's also describe the scent of the cigar pre-lit in addition to the aesthetics, construction and feel of a cigar.  The flavor nuances change as you smoke a cigar.  I notice the difference from beginning, to the middle and to the end, but my palate isn't as refined yet to be able to single out specific flavors in the process.

One important factor to me is the aroma of the cigar while lit. If I get a cigar and go upstairs to throw darts or shoot pool, I want to be considerate enough to not make everyone smell cigar smoke that smells like cat piss.

I'm either smoking outside or in my garage, so I usually change my clothes or at least my shirt when I'm done.

I'm also looking to see if there are any local stores that have the Davidoff Year of the Snake cigars.  They're a bit pricey though.  I've seen a box of 8 for like $200 and a 4 pack for over $100.

It drives me insane when I'm at a smoking friendly establishment and there's a guy smoking a cigar that puts off a cat piss like aroma. Especially in a confined space.

I don't really feel comfortable smoking at shops.  Maybe it's just me, but I prefer to enjoy a cigar at home instead.  Then I don't have to worry about obnoxious people with poor taste, I can listen to whatever music I want, and I have whatever refreshments I want in my refrigerators.

^^ amen

If its not too cold, I may have another smoke tonight. I'm thinking of having an A Fuente Short Story or an Oliva Serie G Natural Special G. I'd even consider the Nub 358 Connecticut that I have too.

I've got a tabak robusto waiting for me I may go to my buddy's house and smoke it when I finish with the gf's mothers bday dinner. It's been a stressful day and this just adds to it lol

I never got around to smoking anything last night.  It was a bit late and I just didn't have the time.  However, I think I may have done something even worse than staying up late to smoke a cigar.  A lot of people reference CBid on the forum that I've been spending a little bit of time on.  I decided to check it out last night to see if I could find some hard to find cigars I've been wanting to add to my collection.  Yeah, so cigarbid.com is a pretty awful place if you're trying to not spend money on frivolous things.  I'm hoping to get my hands on some more Opus X's, some Añejo #77 Shark's, and Tatuaje Old Man and the 'C' now.

That's terrible news Tim! I'm gonna go broke

I'm getting there. I'm already looking for a bigger humidor so I can use it for boxes and other stuff I want to age for a few years.

Yeah, so I have a problem.  I went to that shop in Columbus you suggested Country.  They really didn't have anything that I just had to have, yet I came home with 2 Nub Cameroon 466BPT's and an Arturo Fuente Flor Fina 8-5-8 Natural and Maduro.  I also came home and found out that my Xikar 15 count travel case and Alec Bradley The Burner tabletop lighter were delivered.  I'm waiting on a few more dividers for my humidor, some cans of super duper pooper refined Colibri butane and a new cutter to show up.

If I'm lucky, I'll win a few auctions on C Bid and get some sticks that I've wanted to collect.

I feel all alone posting in here since nobody is responding.  :okay:

You're crazy. Just saying.

I finally fixed tapatalk! Is the Flora Fina the one that is similar to the opus x without the aged wrapper? I think I'm going to grab one of those this weekend   

Btw, you never told me how to season the humidor

I'm not 100% sure about the Flor Fina.  I know the 8-5-8's are a pretty good smoke for the price.  I finally found the one cigar I've been searching for last night.  Country, you already know.  I picked up an A Fuente Añejo #77 Shark.  I also picked up a few Opus X's while I was there because he had 'em.  I also snagged a few My Father Flor De Las Antillas Robusto's.  Those cigars have gotten a lot of great reviews for being a $6 cigar.  My next search is for an Opus X Love Affair though.  Hopefully the shop I go to the most will get a box of them the next time Opus X's are shipped in February.

The opus x ships in February?

From what I've been told, the Opus X is sent to shops 4 times a year. I've been told to start looking around Valentine's Day.

I've been to two different shops recently that still have Opus X's. At this point, I have plenty. I am going to hold off on getting any more unless it's something rare.

So, I tried a Java Latte by Drew Estate tonight.  I guess it's essentially a Rocky Patel and Drew Estate collaboration.  For whatever reason, the girl at the shop I was at last week recommended it.  It was a mistake to take her advice on this stick.  While she tried to make suggestions based on what I told her I liked, it felt like she was just recommending what she liked instead.  I really didn't like this cigar at all and will probably avoid them from now on.  I didn't even get 1/3 of the way through before I put it down and came inside.

A coffee flavored cigar?  Yeah that sounds pretty disgusting. 

I really like the drew estate latte series. It's actually discontinued. Did you have the dark or light wrapper?

Drew estate replaced the latte series with the tabak line. The latte series is only flavored at the cap, where the tabak wrapper is flavored all the way through.

I had the natural and not the maduro.  I really didn't like it at all and had to stop smoking it about 15 minutes in because it was making me sick.  I figured it would be okay because coffee and tobacco compliment each other.  From now on I'm going to stick with what I know and like, and stay away from the infused cigars.  For me, they're something I don't enjoy and it's difficult to store them.  I can't put them in my big humidor because they'll affect the flavor and ruin my regular cigars that I'm aging.  I had it in my small humidor because of that.

I've decided to never do that again.  I'm going to use my other smaller humidor to store the cigars that have been aged and I plan on smoking.  I have a Padron 85th Anniversary that I'm planning on having next.  It's been aging for about 8-9 months, so it should be ready.

Is this a habit that aids in stress relief? I need something!

It's definitely bad because it's something that takes your time and money, and it also makes you reek of smoke.

I wouldn't say this was stress relief Mike.  All though it does make you sit down and enjoy one. So it might. All depends on you, really.

Like Nelson said, it's all about you. Most cigar shops have comfy lounge chairs and a big tv. I really enjoy going to a shop and enjoying the flavor notes of a nice cigar  for me it is a stress relief.

Tonight I had an Arturo fuente that is the same as the opus x with a different wrapper. It was very good. Very smooth to smoke, constant rich flavor notes. I found myself smoking it too fast because it was a great smoke. It came in a cedar(I believe) casing to hold in the flavor. For the price it was great. Only about 8 dollars after tax

I would assume prices vary greatly by state due to taxes?

Añejo?

Tim, you now know what I had.

Mike, they do vary by state due to taxes, but it's not a considerable amount. It could go up or down a dollar or two depending on the state. The Oliva G Toro that Tim suggested was 5.20 here. It may be 6-8 where he is.

I think it's only NY state that heavily taxes tobacco.

Most of the price differences would come from the shop itself attempting to make the most they could off of each stick.

Mike, have you tried any cigars?

There's a good cigar shop / bar on Boylston Street in Boston.

Edit: this is the one.

http://www.cigarmasters.com/index.html

Apparently they have a location in Providence too, Mike.

What about you Nelson, any cigars you fancy?

I like Romeo y Julieta's.

But then again I don't know much about cigars.  I had a Cohiba once. I think they're overrated.

You're paying for the name with a cohiba IMO.
 
Gurkha makes a few really good cigars that I like. The assassin lives up to its name

When I lived in Boston, I went to Gloucester Street Cigar Company because I lived around the corner from there.  There was also another shop I went to every now and then on Boylston and Charles across from the Boston Common.

I've heard mixed reviews of Gurkha.  Some love 'em and some hate 'em.  One of the shops I go to frequently has a Gurkha His Majesty Reserve in their humidor as a display piece.  I'm not sure spending $850 for one cigar is worth it.  I would use that kinda money on something else.

I had a Padrón Family Reserve No. 85 Natural Robusto tonight.  Made it most of the way through, but had to stop because I was getting a nicotine buzz.  I really enjoyed it though.  It started off a bit spicy, but smoothed out quickly.  I've always enjoyed every Padrón 1926 and 1964 Anniversary that I've tried so far.

I had a Nub Connecticut 358 tonight while I was working on my car.  It was a great smoke even though the foot was split slightly due to being stored improperly.

I tried a Nub Cameroon 466BPT tonight.  It started out slightly strong and peppery, but smoothed out fairly quickly.  It just seemed to get better as I kept smoking it.  So far, I've been very happy with the Nub's that I've tried.  I have a selection of 4 different Habanos.  I think I'm going to try one of those next.

I think I will try a Nub next time I go have a smoke. I Was wanting a CAO MX2 the other night, they did not have any so I went with a MX3 Burns 423. It was good except it required constant attention and I had to relight it twice.

I think I only had to touch up the Nub once last night.  It's a quick smoke though.  It usually lasts about an hour.  Since you like the MX2's, you should try the Nub Maduro 460.

I'll try one this weekend. I'm thinking about going to the burns in my district and getting an acid blondie. Nothing fancy just a quick cigar.

Meh. I'm not a fan of acids. Those flavored cigars smell like hippy.

I like them every now and then. That's how I got started smoking cigars.

I was sorely disappointed with the Java Latte I had. That was such a bad experience ill never want another flavored cigar ever again. That Nub last night though. Makes me want another cigar tonight. Good thing I have an assortment of Nubs.

I will bring you a Tabak especial when I come up, Hopefully it will change your mind. The Java you had, was it dark or light wrapper?

The Java had a light wrapper.  I'm not sure if I'll be into the Tabak.  I had a Nub Habano tonight and it was good, but now I have a headache.  I still like the Nub Connecticut and the Nub Cameroon the most.

Was the java aged any? Drew estate changed the wrapper and I think the blend of tobacco for the tabak.

I know i'm a little late lol, havent really been on here. ben you talking about this day?
(http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/224861_10200266015232477_1944252716_n.jpg)

I kinda think the makers mark cigar is made by Gurkha.

Disregard, theirs is a cognac cigar. I sit corrected

Aging flavored cigars doesn't make them better.  I've read a lot of reviews of the Java Latte, and I know there are others that feel the same as I do about it.

I'm not sure what was up wit that Nub Habano 358 I had last night.  It was good, but the flavor may have been affected by me torching it because of the wind.  Not sure why I got a headache though.  I have 3 more 358's, 2 460's, 2 464T's and 2 466's so I hope they get better with age.  I'm definitely going to pick up some more Nub Connecticuts and Cameroons though.  I really liked those.

If I feel up to it, I think I am going to try a Nub tomorrow night.

I had the oliva serie v melanio Churchill last night. It was longer than a usual Churchill and a 50 ring gauge. It was a really nice smoke. I had some problems getting it lit, but that was operator error. Once I got it cooled off from the couch up it was very tasty not to stout and had a mellow taste to it.

I've wanted to pick up the Oliva Serie V Melanio double ligero. Last night I had a Tatuaje 7th Capa Especial last night. I aged it for at least 3-4 months and it was great.

I've been picking up Lancero's lately.  I've only had a Tatuaje, but I'm looking forward to a few of them.  I also picked up another humidor.  This one should hold about 400-500 cigars.  It's going to be perfect for aging a lot of my cigars that I'm planning on keeping for a while.

So you actually bought the humidor and didn't even send me a pic of it?

I bought it, but haven't received it yet.  I was hoping it would have shipped out last week, but it will be shipping out on Friday probably.

Oh ok cool!

Tim, I think this guy still has some flying pigs.
http://www.xdtalk.com/forums/non-firearms-related-sale/222780-anyone-interested-some-cigars.html (http://www.xdtalk.com/forums/non-firearms-related-sale/222780-anyone-interested-some-cigars.html)

If you're a member of that forum, can you contact the guy about the FFP's?  You can give him my email or contact info if you want.

Ill try. I replied to it

Here you go Tim

You rock Country!  I'd take all of them, but I don't want to blow the cash right now.  I'll settle for the FFP's though.

Sounds good, waiting for his Paypal for ya

man.. this makes me want to get into smoking cigars, as I've enjoyed a good one here and there..  but I know the wife would shoot me if I wanted to start becoming a cigar enthusiast, or even just smoking one more than once a month.

Tell her to accept it. It's a hobby, and means of pleasure.

I'm lucky with my wife.  She actually supports it because it reminds her of her grandfather.  Just because you choose to pick it up as a hobby, doesn't mean you have to smoke all the time.  I usually have a cigar about once every week or two.  I've only been smoking more frequently because I was trying to make room in my humidor for new cigars that I've purchased.  I enjoy maintaining my humidor and collecting hard to find cigars as much as I enjoy smoking them.  The hobby itself is more about slowing down and relaxing than anything else.  When you get a humidor, you have to season it, which can take up to a week.  When you buy cigars, their flavor develops when you age them, so some people age their cigars for years before smoking them.

Ohh yeah.  My new 300-500 count humidor came in yesterday.  The seal on the lid was a bit loose, so I tightened that up.  I started seasoning it last night, and hopefully it will be ready by tonight or tomorrow.  I put in a few damp sponges on the aerator trays, a bowl of dw in the bottom and the shitty humidifiers overnight, and the Rh was up to 80% this morning.  I pulled the sponges, but left the bowl of dw in the bottom and the humidifiers and will check it again tonight.  Hopefully I'll be able to get my hands on a few good humidifiers and a new hygrometer today or tomorrow.

I am rather curious to see what extra smoke that guy threw in the box.

I am too.  Seems like a nice enough guy.  Had a tracking number for me within minutes of paying him after we got that little issue figured out.  Right now I'm having an issue with both of my Xikar hygrometers.  When I go to calibrate them, I press the calibrate button and hold it for 5 seconds (per the instructions) and the display reads 75%, then after about 60-90 seconds, the display changes back to whatever the Rh was before I pressed the button.  I sent Xikar an email, so we will see how long it takes for them to get back to me.  I may have to give them a call on Monday because I'm impatient.

I played tetris with my cigars last night to rearrange some stuff in my humidors.  I snapped off a few pictures of them and the cigar I smoked last night.

Here's most of my Opus X collection.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/photo2_zpsa9ad3b6f.jpg)
Here's my Añejo collection.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/photo1_zpsfd2fb58e.jpg)
My Lancero collection.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/029A38F5-DF43-4F6B-AF7C-5678BD88E118-25563-00001645178F7B44_zps543c9e7f.jpg)
My Liga Privada collection.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/68F9BAAC-F325-467C-B013-D38892C8A8A7-25563-00001645120D57E5_zps739d03f7.jpg)
My Opus X's, Añejo's, Padron's and a couple Tatuaje Culebras.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/250DA765-57A4-4F00-8C51-F45904AA9EC5-210-00000010F96AC146_zpsd851c9c5.jpg)
A bunch of different loose cigars that I am waiting to try.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/CCC71216-1828-48F0-91EA-E80D007488D4-25563-00001645267BE5F8_zps040126ce.jpg)

I tried a My Father Le Bijou 1922 Petit Robusto last week and really enjoyed it, so I bought a few more and had one last night.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/AA619997-035D-4A48-BD77-16ED8756DEE0-25563-00001644FA26FE44_zpsd9e79c38.jpg)
Some of my accessories.
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/65F2D729-A0A9-4498-9384-CA5D758506D0-25563-00001645097607AE_zpsf7724033.jpg)

How do you smoke the tatuaje culebras?

You just cut the string holding the 3 cigars together, separate them, take one, give the other two to your two friends and enjoy.  :thumbsup:

That My Father Flora de las Antillas was such a great smoke. It did get a little stronger at the last 3rd, but it wasn't terrible.

That is an awesome collection you got there Tim.  Those tatuaje culebras are pretty neat looking.

Now you got me in the mood for a smoke.   8-)

Makes sense. For some weird reason I imagined somebody trying to smoke all three cigars at once. LoL. Silly me.

That's an impressive collection, by the way.

Thanks guys.  I have a feeling that this is going to be an enjoyable summer.  Since it's cold out, and I don't like going to smoking lounges, I usually just have a cigar in the garage about once or twice a week.  Once the weather warms up, I'm probably going to be enjoying what I've been collecting more frequently.

I'm sure some drunk college kid has tried that here

On the hunt for a couple of Arturo Fuente Opus X Perfecxion 77 "Shark".  They're one of those HTF cigars that I'd be keeping in my humidor for a couple of years for a special occasion.
(http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/85/b0/85b0ecc5a69aee132190d09dae0c68cd.png?itok=dShhfNrK)

I've been wanting to try a few different Opus X cigars but haven't had any luck finding them locally.  Do you guys have any preferred websites for purchasing cigars?

I like the local shop back home. 
http://www.cigarsinternational.com

I was never really "allowed" to smoke at home when I was livin at my parents, so I've really embraced cigars since I moved out.  I grabbed a sampler of Acid cigars (flavor infused) before I left.  And I'm really enjoyin them.

Is this the sampler you're talking about?  Looks interesting and the price is right, I might have to try it out. 

http://www.cigarsinternational.com/samplers/56399/acid-limited-edition-sampler-tin/ (http://www.cigarsinternational.com/samplers/56399/acid-limited-edition-sampler-tin/)

Yup that's it.  I've always liked Acid cigars, I used to always get one on my bday for Musikfest downtown.

Ike, talk to Tim, he buys them on a daily basis(or seems like). Do you have a humidor?

I needs me a humidor.

I got mine for 16 bucks on cigarbid

Opus X's are only shipped to cigar shops 4 times a year.  They should be coming around soon though.  I've been talking to the manager of the B&M I frequent and he said to keep looking.  As soon as they're available he'll have them out.  I really want to pick up the Perfecxion 77 "Shark" and the Love Affair vitolas in the Opus X line, but those are somewhat rare.  If anyone is looking for an Opus X, there are a couple of shops that I go to that still have some.  I would be more than glad to pick some up and send 'em out to you if you want.

Ike, there's something that you should know about the Opus X.  They don't live up to the hype when they're fresh.  These are cigars that really need time to age and develop.  That's why I've been going kind of crazy with picking them up over the past few months.  If you smoked one fresh, it would be a single note pepper bomb and you probably wouldn't enjoy it much.  Most of the people with experience say that 3-5 years is the right amount of time to age them. 
Some even say they get better after a year.  If you're not willing to be patient, I would recommend buying 2 Opus X's when you do find them (or have me send them).  Smoke the first one when you get it, and let the other one sit in your humidor for at least a year and then smoke it.  You will be able to tell the difference then.

Ryan, CI has an auction site also.  You can check out cigarbid.com and order from them that way.  I've gotten a bunch of stuff for a pretty good price that way.  I'm not a fan of Acid's because I'm not crazy about flavored cigars.  I smoked a few when I first got into cigars about 13-14 years ago.  I just find that the flavor infusion overpowers the tobacco.  Jonathan Drew has done some pretty cool stuff in the industry though.  I had a chance to meet him, but thought he was kind of douchey, so I passed.  I guess he's a cool guy.  If you're looking for some good non-flavored cigars, check out the Liga Privada Undercrown line.  Liga Privada is some pretty good stuff.

Right now, my favorites have still been the My Father Le Bijou 1922 Petit Coronas.  My Father has made a pretty big name for themselves recently.  They have the #1 cigar of Cigar Aficionado's top 25 cigars of 2012.  If you have a chance to pick up a Flor de las Antillas, it's supposed to be a really good smoke.  A few others that are high up on my list are Oliva and Tatuaje.

My current favorite is the my father Tim recommended. The flora de las antillas is a great smoke. One this that is rather surprising about it is that it ranked number one, like Tim said, but it's not a very expensive stick. You'd think, given its competitors, it would have a higher price point. Here they are 7 bucks

I don't have a humidifier so I guess the Opus X is out.  I don't have the patience to wait years for a cigar to age. 

The My Father Le Bijou 1922s look interesting.  I'm trying to decide between the  LE Corona Gorda (5.5"x47) 10 pack for $70 or the  Petite Robusto (4.5"x50) 5 pack for $33.  Those are the only two that are in stock on CI.  The My Father  Cedro Deluxe Eminente (Corona) (5.6"x46)  5 pack for $40 looks good too.  Decision, decisions!

Ike, it's a good idea for you to at least have something to store any cigars that you pick up.  If you plan on getting a 5 or 10 pack, I'm assuming they will probably sit for a few weeks before you smoke them all.  If you google "tupperdor" you will find a way to make an inexpensive storage solution that is a great alternative to a humidor.  If you get a 5 or 10 pack of sticks and just let them sit without any humidification, they will dry out and be ruined.  If you're not really willing to at least make a tupperdor (which I've heard cost about 10-20 to make), then you may want to stick to cigars fresh from the humidor of your local shop.

BTW, I'm not opposed to storing an Opus X or two for you in one of my humidors.  I have a little bit of room still.

A tupperdor is pretty simple to make. I plan on using one with a boveda pack As my travel setup next month

Ordered a Humidor today.  I'm excited for it to come. :)

What size did you order? Word from the almighty Tim, order a bigger humidor than you need. Leave room for growth

30-50

I think I'm going to bite the bullet and pick one up too when I put in my cigar order. 

Tim, I might take you up on your offer to pick me up a few Opus X cigars if I can't find any locally soon.

Please don't say that.  I'm only passing on advice given from others with more experience than me.  It's also my experience though.  I filled up my 120 count humidor within a few weeks.  My only issue with my 500 count humidor is that I need more trays for it.  I've gotta order those soon.

Ike, just let me know and we'll work something out.  They may be hard to find right now, but I'll be posting when they come into my local shop so you guys know when to start looking for them.  I'm also planning on coming to some import event in/near Ocean City in the beginning of June.  Not sure how far you are from there, but I can always bring 'em down if you want to meet up.

Ike try cigarbid for a humidor. Mine was 22 dollars shipped. For a 30-50 count. I'm going to build a tupperdor for opus x's and store them desperately for a while.

Tryin one of the little guys that came in my Acid sampler, I believe its called a Blondie, while I'm grillin up dinner.  They're ok, just little quick hitters.   But I think they're funny cause they look like joints.

Lol the blonde is pretty good

Having a Padron 1964 Anniversary Exclusivo Natural right now. It's been one of my favorites for years. If you haven't tried one, pick one up. The 1964 Aniversary's and Serie 1926 are both amazing cigars. I haven't had one that I didn't enjoy thoroughly.

So next week once my humidor is properly set up and I feel as though the humidity has stabilized, I've decided what my first few additions will be.

2x AF grand reserve queen B 
AF flora Fina 858
2x My Father Flora de las antillas
Oliva serie v melanio and serie g
And maybe a my father LE bijou 1922(will bring a few back from Ohio)

Which 8-5-8? Maduro, Natual, Sun Grown or Claro?

If you can, pick up a Padron 1964. It's a damn good smoke.

Maduro. Maybe a natural too

I want to eventually get to where when I go out for a smoke on the weekend, I buy a cigar to go in place of what I smoke. That way if one weekend I go smoke, and don't feel like buying a stick, I don't have to.

I also really kinda want to try one of the AF between the lines. It looks interdasting

I know where you can pick one up. That's a good idea for the sticks though. Eventually you'll get to the point where you will get a fiver of your favorites.

Got this off of cigarbids.

(http://img.cigarbid.com/p/500/m/a/m-a0037.jpg)


Any tips for setting these things up?  The simpler the better...

Would putting a tabacco-like substance in the humidor along with the cigars affect the cigars at all? I'd use a divider but I'm not sure if that is enough. 

Looks like the same one I got cept mine is the Onyx (black) one.

What I'm doing, is I took a a damp sponge with distilled water and set it on top of a zip lock bag inside the humidor. This is called seasoning the humidor. I'm basically bringing it up to humidity until my heartfelt beads and hygrometer get here

You just leave it in there for a few days? 

One method I read about was putting water in a shot glass, boiling it in the microwave, then sticking the glass in the box to sit for two days. 

Yeah you just let it sit there. As the moisture is released, it will be absorbed by the cedar. I'm pretty sure this will result in a constant humidity

The shot glass method will work, but it is a bit slower. The damp sponge method is the same principle, but it increases the surface area. Another option is to buy a Boveda seasoning pack and just use that instead.

Here are a few things I would suggest when setting up your humidor:

1. DO NOT wipe down the inside of your humidor with a damp cloth. It will water log the Spanish cedar an cause it to expand and buckle. Basically, you will ruin your humidor.

2. Throw away the foam humidification device and analog hygrometer that comes with your humidor. These are cheaply made garbage.

3. Get a digital hygrometer that can be calibrated. Analog hygrometers are not acurate at all. Make sure you calibrate your hygrometer when you get it. It should come with instructions, but it is wasily done with the "salt test". I have Xikar hygrometers because they have a lifetime warrant and good customer service.

4. Get a good humidification device. There are different types that people swear by. Find what works best for you. I have been using Heartfelt beads and found them to regulate my humidors for long periods of time with no maintenance. Boveda packs are my choice for my travel humidor, but they are disposable, so they will require replacement every few months. The last option would be those gel beads. They're okay, but I have had a hard time regulating humidity with them.

5. Check to make sure it has a proper seal. You can use the "dollar bill" test or the "drop test" to see if you have a good seal. For those of you with glass top humidors, a big issue is the seal around the glass. Most people fix that with aquarium silicone. If its an issue with the seal on your lid (the lip on the lid), you can wedge thick paper in to the corners of that lip to tighten up that seal. Since these are inexpensive mass produced humidors, expect to spend some time fixing these issues. Remember, a good humidor costs $500 and up.

6. Open up a brand new sponge and soak it with distilled water ONLY. Wring it out so it is damp and not dripping. Place the sponge inside your humidor on either a plastic bag or small plate or saucer so the sponge is not touching the Spanish cedar. Also place your calibrated hygrometer and humidification device inside. Close the lid and let it sit 12-24 hours before checking the Rh.

7. Continue to re-dampen the sponge with distilled water. When it reaches and stabilizes to the desired humidity, remove the sponge from the humidor and continue to monitor for another 24 hours.

8. After your humidor has stabilized to your desired Rh, fill it up with sticks.

One thing to remember, the fuller your humidor is, the better it can regulate the humidity. There will be less fluctuation when you open and close the lid.

Cliff Notes:
don't wipe down with a damp cloth
only use distilled water (not filtered water or tap water)
get a digital hygrometer and proper humidification device
make sure you have a good seal
dampen sponge and place in humidor
monitor humidity every 12-24 hours
load with cigars after humidity has been regulated for at least a day

Should I wait to purchase cigars until I get the humidor set up or will they be okay sitting out for a day or two?

Are you going to purchase them locally?  The process to seasoning a humidor should take about 2-3 days depending on how long it takes to get the humidity up in your humidor.  Also, too much humidity is also a bad thing and can damage your cigars.  60-70% is the standard depending on personal preference.  You can also pick up a travel bag that has humidification to hold your cigars for a few days.  You can get those at a local shop usually.  It's basically a ziplock bag with a humidification device (like a Boveda pack) inside.  You can just use your own ziplock bag and buy a Boveda pack if you want though.

No I was going to purchase them online.  I'll just wait until I get the humidor setup then. 

Right on.  It may be worth it to wait.  If you have any questions, feel free to hit me up.  You have my number, right?

Yeah I have it, thanks for the help so far. 

No problem.  Hit me up if you have questions.

So I got my humidor set up and I have a question.  I went to put my cigars in and they are wrapped in plastic.  Do I take them out of the plastic or leave them in? Does it matter?

Yes, you'll want them out if the plastic so they can absorb the necessary humidity

^ this!!

Damn impermeable plastic always ruining humidity absorption.

Lol. K thanks.  I'm holdin off, spongin my humidor for a day or two to be sure.

What's the deal with the "humidifier"? How often should I have to fill it?

(Sry, new to all this)

Tim could better answer that one. It is a bit dependent upon how often you open the humidor and how well it seals. Boveda makes humidity packs for lazy people that keep a constant humidity.

Ill recommend what was recommended to me. Heartfelt beads are pretty maintenance free. JUST BE SURE TO USE ONLY DISTILLED WATER.

I wondered the same thing and found this:

DO YOU REMOVE THE PLASTIC WRAPPER WHEN STORING IN A HUMIDOR?

Daily I get asked, should I remove the wrapper from my new cigars before I store them in my humidor? The simple answer, it doesn't matter.

I know, you are confused. You think that the plastic prevents the cigar from getting humidity. Believe me, I understand your confusion, but don't worry, I'll explain. Cigars are stored in what is called cellophane. The cellophane is used to prevent the cigars from being damaged, and deters against flavors mixing. But what many people don't know is that cellophane is actually a porous material. In other words, it allows humidity to pass through it.

Want an example? Take a cigar in the wrapper and leave it outside your humidor for a week. You might as well throw it away, it will be ruined. The wrapper didn't hold in the humidity, it did nothing at all really. So it isn't hard to see how the wrapper doesn't really affect the humidity of the cigar.

It comes down to personal preference. Some people like them on, some people like them off. The advantages of keeping them on is that your cigar flavors won't mingle as much, though you would be hard pressed to notice unless you were an expert. It also is great to cut your cigars with the wrappers on as it keeps the blade clean and sharp much longer.

http://www.cheaphumidors.com/faq.html (http://www.cheaphumidors.com/faq.html)

There are debates on whether or not to remove the cellophane from cigars.  It's all personal preference.  I remove the cello from my cigars, others prefer to leave it on.  Either way, it's not going to make a difference what you decide to do.

Ryan, when it comes to the humidification device that came with your humidor, THROW IT AWAY and buy something that works.  Mike suggested Boveda packs as a low/no maintenance option.  They're fairly inexpensive and will hold for months before you need to replace them.  I have heartfelt beads in my humidors and they do fairly well at maintaining the humidity at 65%.  The need to recharge (or replace) your humidification device is dependent on the environment.  Things like outside climate, air movement in the room you keep your humidor, how often you open your humidor, how many cigars you store in your humidor all factor in.  The only way to tell when you need to recharge your humidification device is by paying attention to your calibrated digital hygrometer.  When the Rh starts to drop, you know that you need to recharge it.  Pretty simple, right?

Sounds good to me.  There's a cigar shop downtown ill stop in on the way home and see what they got.

Look for a xikar digital round hygrometer. From what Tim says, they have awesome customer service. They are a very reputable and well known brand. Calibration was easy, just time consuming. As for the boveda packs, make sure you get the 65% RH humidity packs. They're like 5 bucks at my shop but they're proud of things. You could order them for cheaper online.

Well not going to that shop again.  I went in and asked the guy at the counter if they had em and I shit you not he laughed at me and said "No no no son.  Distilled water, just put it in your humidifier."  So I told him I only had the shitty one that came with the Humidor and he told me to go get a good humidifying system.  Fucking know it all prick.  Looks like ill just order em from the shop back home.

Yeah you will have that. The owner if the local shop here takes all of the opus x off of the truck and rarely lets them be sold.

That kind of stuff is going to hurt their business. If you act like a know it all prick to someone that is new, they're probably going to go to another shop or order it online. I'm glad that the shops I frequent are friendly. I have yet to hang out in a shop and smoke a cigar there though. I'm still anti-social.

We shall fix that Tim ;) next time you come by chatt town ill show ya how it's done

I'd like to make a trip down there this summer if I can find the time.  I hear that I'm going to be pretty busy with work this summer.

All the more reason to duck out for a few days

I think I found some of the issues, I over-humidified the humidor while seasoning it(too big of a sponge), and I feel like the hygrometer being is such close proximity to the beads may have a slight affect. I too the hygrometer off the magnet and placed it on the floor of the humidor next to my cigars with the beads on the other side of the divider. Today it was down to 71% RH. I'm going to figure this damn thing out lol

Just remember to give it time.  This is a hobby of patience.  I'm debating what I want to smoke tonight.

This is true. I just keep feeling like in doing it wrong. At least I acquired a good bit of cedar from the small cigar shop to build my tupperdor.

So last night, I smoked an AF short story. It was great except the wrapper started coming apart towards the end. I also got Lori to try a cigar(didn't take much convincing). Nonetheless, she tried an acid blondie and really enjoyed it once she got the hang of it.

That's good news.  Glad to hear you got the cedar.  That will be helpful with the tupperdor.  Short Stories are good smokes.  They're really nice because they don't take a lot of time if you want a quick smoke.

And I got enough cedar to have a pretty good sized tupperdor too. I should be able to grab you a few of those sticks we talked about last night, they are a pretty robust and rich smoke

So I bought a 4-pack of the "Boveda 84% One-Step Seasoning Kit" to season my new humidor.  I put three of the packets in the humidor and the forth packet I put in a ziplock bag with a new digital hydrometer I bought.  I figured that would be a good way to calibrate it.  After 48 hours the hydrometer was reading 95%.  Was what I did not a good way to calibrate it or is it just wayyy out of calibration?  I took the hydrometer and the boveda package out of the ziplock bag and put them both in the humidor.  Tomorrow will be one week since I started seasoning the humidor.  They typically take two weeks right?

Mine took a few days and may have been over humidified. I re-calibrated my hygrometer last night/this morning. I recommend the salt test as salt with a little bit of water, makes a perfect 75% relative humidity. The calibrate feature of the hygrometer should be set to 75(if a xikar hygrometer) as 75% is a constant. I took pictures of the process of setting up the salt test.
First you take a bottle cap, I used the one from my brothers diet coke, and fill it with regular table salt.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/04/29/ehuna6um.jpg)

Next, you're going to lightly drizzle water on the salt until it is wet, but does not have water standing.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/04/29/yjyreras.jpg)

Now that you've done this, simply place the hygrometer and the salt filled cap in a ziplock bag and seal it.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/04/29/8y9u9eju.jpg)

Lastly, you let it sit for 4 to 12 hours and then you press and hold the calibrate button. This should make it show 75% RH. Boom! You're done.

 :stupid:

Ike, I've had my smaller 120 count humidor take a week to season properly, but that's because the lid wasn't sealing properly.  Once I fixed the seal, it went along much faster.  With my 500 count humidor, it only took a few days.  It all depends on what the Rh of your humidor is before you start seasoning.  The only way to really know is to use a calibrated hygrometer to monitor the Rh throughout the process.  Be careful that you don't run into the same issues as Country and over humidify your humidor.  Then it will require more maintenance to get the Rh back down.

Another thing to remember is that your cigars will also bring moisture to your humidor.

I think i may have somehow messed up the calibration process the first time causing all of my issues. This morning when I went to calibrate the hygrometer, it was sitting perfectly at 75. I calibrated it and put it in the humidor. When I checked it before work, it was down to 70%. Hopefully it will be closer to the desired 65 percent when I get home from work/gym

Hope it all works out for you.

Hope so too. I need to run to Walmart and see if I can't find the large Tupperware container I want

I'm more confused than a bachelor in a family reunion. Got home, humidor still at 70. Left it open an hour, down to 66%. Checked it 30 minutes later, 67%. Hopefully it'll start to level out.

I have four packets of the Boveda 84% One-Step Seasoning Kit if anyone wants them.  Four packets is enough to season up to a 200 count humidor.  They have enough life left to season several humidors.   Just pay shipping and they are yours. 

I wish I had another humidor to season.  Both of my humidors are sitting at 65% right now.

Got the humicare gel packs and finally calibrated my Hygrometer using the salt in the bottle cap way.  Boom!  65%!  Thanks guys.  Finally got a good cutter and torch lighter too.  Now I just gotta get some more good cigars.  ;D

I can make suggestions!!

^^^ he can...

I know a few that I fancy as well

Now we're cookin with peanut oil! Didn't check the humidor last night before bed, got up this morning and she is sittin pretty at 67% RH.

Is that with cigars in it?

Yes it is

You're doing good then. Let it sit and the humidity will go down naturally. Remember that the Rh will fluctuate slightly, so don't stress out about 1-2% above or below your target. You'll drive yourself crazy and end up chasing your tail trying to keep it at a rock solid 65%.

I finally went ahead and bought some cigars from CI.  Here is what I got:

The ACID Limited Edition Sampler Tin:
1 - ACID 1 (5" x 54)
1 - ACID Atom Maduro (5" x 50)
1 - ACID Blondie (4" x 38)
1 - ACID Cold Infusion Tea (6.75" x 44)
1 - ACID Extra Ordinary Larry (6" x 60)
1 - ACID Kuba Kuba (5" x 54)
1 - ACID Ming Dynasty (6" x 60)
1 - ACID Nasty (4" x 52)
1 - ACID Toast (6" x 50)
5 - ACID c-notes (3.75" x 20)

My Father Le Bijou 1922 Petite Robusto 5-pack

The Don Pepin My Father and Friends Sampler II:
1- My Father Robusto (5.25" x 52)
1- My Father Le Biou Petite Robusto (4.5" x 50)
1- Jaime Garcia Reserva Especial Robusto (5.25" x 52)
1- Flor de las Antillas Robusto (5" x 50)
1- La Reloba Mexican Robusto (5" x 50)
1- La Reloba Sumatra Robusto (5" x 50)
1- La Reloba Habano Robusto (5" x 50)
1- Tabacos Baez SF Robusto (5" x 50)

Can't wait to try some of these out.  Thanks for the recommendations fellas!  8-)

I have the Acid Sampler and am loving it.  But I see the bottom of my humidor so... time to order more. Lol

And thanks for helpin out a local business, even tho I'm technically not local anymore.  ;)

Damn Ike win a few auctions? Huh lol. Good purchases

Keep the Acid's away from your other cigars.  If possible, keep them out of your humidor and put them in a sealed tupperware container with a boveda pack.  They will flavor your other cigars and affect your humidor.

Tim, at jungle Jim's, I'm gonna pick up like 3-5 acid cigars for Lori for the week. They won't affect the tupperdor or the other cigars for those few days will they?

Damn I didn't even think of that.  Good idea

Yes, they will flavor the other cigars.  I would never keep any flavored cigars anywhere near regular cigars.  You're probably better off just getting a Boveda pack and a ziplock bag for the Acid's.  If they're for the week, that should be fine.

I've got a small Tupperware that seals well ill bring for her

I tried out an Acid Blondie last night.  I was expecting a lot as they seem to be pretty popular but it was just okay.  Not bad, just not that great.  I'd give it a 6.5/10 tokes. 

My girlfriend has been smoking them. She enjoys them. I'm not a huge fan of them anymore.  I had to light hers and it was terrible since I had already lit my padron.

Last night I had a padron 1964 (I think a principe Maduro). It had everything I was looking for last night. It was rich, but still somewhat mellow. It was consistent up until it got pretty much to my fingers then it was really spicy but that could be attributed to the heat.
9/10 tokes

Yeah the Blondies are okay.  I like em for if I wanna sneak in a quickie.

I like the AF short story or work of art as a quick smoke. I had the work of art while I was at work yesterday

Another thing to remember is that your palate will develop and change over time.  It's been a while since I've been able to enjoy a cigar.  Allergies, work, and finishing my car have been killing me lately.  I need to make time to enjoy a good smoke tonight.  Not sure what I want to have though.  I've been eyeing an Oliva Connecticut for a while now.

I eyeball the AF between the lines every time I walk in the humidor. Hopefully jungle Jim's has them at a better price than they do here

I have yet to smoke the ones I have in my humidor.

It just looks so interesting. I'm not paying 18 bucks for one though

JJ's has ten for less than that. I'll find out for you on Friday.

Ryan and Ike, when I get back from vacation, if they're still around. You fuck sticks may get a gift in the mail. If Tim doesn't buy them all haha.

Country, I love you man.

No homo.

Hoo ray! :)

You shall get one as well Nelson! Haha sry, you no active in here, I no remember

 :kiss:

I had a Tatuaje 7th Capa Especial last night.  The last one I enjoyed had some age on it, which made it really good.  This one was fresh from purchase and it was absolutely amazing.  I absolutely love that cigar.  If you have the chance, you should try one.

Every time I try to get one of those they have either moved it and I can't find it, or they don't have any.

I know where you can get a few. Don't sweat it. It's a damn good smoke though.

I project I should be able to get you 6 more of the mx3's. that would mean I'm bringing you 9. Is that plenty?

Yeah dude. I'm happy you're bringing me any of them.

I had a Room 101 Namakubi. It was a bit peppery for my taste. It wasn't overbearing, but it was just a bit peppery. I'm hoping some time on it will mellow it out a little.

I almost pulled out the flora de las antillas tonight. But my plans at 6am said otherwise.

Question for all yall experts.  Say I only smoke half a cigar, use my cutter to cut off what I already smoked and throw the "good" half back in my humidor for a later time... Good? Bad? No matter?

I already did it, just seein what you guys think.  The good news is my humidor finally settled at 69.  Also I'm quite confident that the seal is working great because you can't smell anything outside the box but as soon as you open it... slap in the face with that cigar smell. :)

The cigar is probably going to taste like shit when you go to resmoke it. 

I would think that not would be dry as fuck the next time you light it. But I ain't no expert.

I think all of your cigars are going to absorb the taste of burnt cigar from you doing that. You can stop a cigar and re-light it, no different than it going out and you re-lighting it. I would recommend scraping out the burnt ends though.

Yeah. You just ruined your humidor. That's the worst thing you could have done. The Spanish cedar will absorb the burned cigar smell and affect all of your other cigars. That's the reason why you only use distilled water and never put flavored cigars in it. The impurities in tap water and the oils they use in flavored cigars will affect your humidor and taint all the other cigars you put in it.

You may be able to save your humidor if you take everything out and air out your humidor for a long time until the smell goes away. If not, it will just ruin any cigar you put in there. You probably should have asked that question before you did that instead of after. I've seen this subject posted a bunch of times on cigar forums by beginning cigar smokers, and all the experiences BOTL just kinda facepalm and gently tell them that they ruined their humidor.

Fuck... it was in it for less than a day... hopefully its still salvageable...

Air out your humidor immediately. The longer you keep it closed, the harder it will be to try and correct it.

Next time, if you have questions about stuff like this, feel free to shoot me a text or give me a call. As long as I'm not busy, I can answer your questions or help you find the answer. I'm more than glad to help with what I can.

Alright thanks Tim.

I managed to smoke two cigars over the long weekend.

My Father Le Biou 1922 Petite Robusto:  Probably the best cigar I've ever smoked.  It had a really good taste and took a little over 90 mins to smoke.  Highly recommend this little guy.  9/10 tokes!

Acid Nasty:  This cigar certainly lived up to its name.  It was quite nasty and not in a good way.  The shape of the cigar was interesting but the taste was horrible.  I've never thrown out a cigar half smoked before but I hardly got 1/3 of the way done before I had to called it quits.  Yuck!   1/10 tokes

The flavored cigars have lost their appeal. My gf still smokes them, but knows it tastes disgusting to me if I have to help her touch one up.

I'm still fighting my humidor to hold RH. It's staying at 60 at the moment. I used the ends of boxes and a few pieces of cedar refill the gaps in the corners of the lid, but it's still letting humidity go. I guess my next option is to nail the pieces together... Or get a bigger humidor. (http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/05/30/amuryta2.jpg)

I brought plenty of sticks home from vacation.

Damn that looks like one tasty collection. 

It's nothing compared to Tim's collection. But there are 8 opus x's and 3 añejo's!

any suggestions for a beginner? I've only ever had the Romeo et Julieta's.

Ike mentioned a great cigar.  The My Father Le Bijous 1922 Petit Robusto.  I'm also a huge fan of the Padron 1964 Anniversary Prensado.

And the 1964 principe maduro. I like the Olivia serie G, it's a little more on the mellow side.

In our way to our condo in the mountains, we stopped at my favorite shop in Knoxville. I got 3 more of the opus x perfecxion #4. And he still has añejo's. Plus, he has a cigar by My Father that only 9 shops in the country has called the lounge exclusive.

Very happy to hear you found some HTF My Father's. I will be in Lexington tomorrow and will pick up some Tatuaje TAA 2012's for you if you'd like to trade.

Thanks, I'll have to make a trip to the cigar shop up the street and see what their selection is like.

I really need to with fix my humidor or smoke a few cigars, my Tupperware humidor is full.

Beautiful night out so i lit up the tiki torches and an Acid Cold Fusion.  I like it a lot.  Real nice flavor.  Had a great ash goin... until i got careless and it fell on my lap. Lol

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/10/judu2abu.jpg)

(It was twice as long when it fell on me.)

I need to go out and smoke another celebratory cigar after the successful weekend I had up in MI.  Not sure what to have though.  I did pick up a couple of Tatuaje TAA 2012's the other day though.  The guy at the shop kept saying how awesome they are, and followed that with the fact that he's not a Tatuaje fan.

I have one of those, I think I'll try it next. 

I really liked it.  I gotta get more cigars I think i only have 3 left...

I gotta fix my humidor, I am having a tough time finding a good wood glue that is not going to release toxins and/or odors into my cigars.

I think saturday night to celebrate the death of the event for this year, I am going to go with an Oliva Serie V Melanio.

Sitting by a bonfire, enjoying an Oliva serie G paired with gentleman jack. These too go together exceptionally well

Gotta decide what I'm going to have tonight. I never had that victory cigar for spanking that Viper last weekend.

....come on... seriously??? Lol

Not sure what you're commenting on. I decided to go with a My Father Le Bijou 1922 Petite Robusto. Great cigar.

I took my buddy the Oliva Serie V melanio, he thoroughly enjoyed it. I had to redneck engineer our cigars by using my pocket knife to cut the cap of them. Surprisingly, it worked pretty well.

Fucking figures... I order some more cigars this morning... check the mail today and get a mailer from Cigars International with a freebie Oliva sampler with purchase of a box... Fuck me right? Lol

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/18/y7y2u8yz.jpg)

Haha I saw that. I'm gonna drop my humidor off this week or next with a friend at work hopefully he can fix it.

Enjoyin one of the Vegas 5s I just got from CI.  Good stuff so far.

Having a Tatuaje 7th Capa Especial tonight. I love these cigars.

Maybe August 15th Tim and I can get an exclusive my father cigar.

eh?

Just post the pic Mike.

Haha ok. Didn't want to make everyone THAT jealous.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/06/22/peby8yda.jpg)

I think I want to buy a box of the broadleaf wrapper. I wonder how much they'll run.

Not sure, Adam is suppose to let me know when they find out

What happened??

What was supposed to happen?  I may bring a few sticks to share when I'm in NY.

I was gonna grab some cao MX3's to send to you guys, but they're gone

I know who has them all.  :suspect:

My father cigars have the best looking labels bar none.  

They really do have a nice label. There is a lot to be said about the presentation of a cigar. My opinion, at least.

So last night, I tried the Room 101 Serie SA number 213. I must say, the only part of the stick I liked was the price. It was $6.80. The whole stick was just overly spicy. I had a glass of water with me, which helped a little, but just over half way through, the spiciness of the cigar was just too much. I had to give up on it and watch the giant tv in the lounge while Lori finished her Tabak especial.

Not at all sure if this is a good deal but, figured I'd share...

http://www.shnoop.com/yesterday (http://www.shnoop.com/yesterday)

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/07/18/yrusy6a3.jpg)Reckon I'm gonna give this Gurkha a try

Tryin to diagnose my humidor, its been readin a bit high... 75-80.

I opened it up for a bit and it dropped down to 69.  So well see what happens.   If it goes back up I may have to recalibrate my hygrometer.

I think the problem may be that I had the humidor on a shelf in kind of a closed area...  not out in the open.


In other news, I went to visit my roomate last friday and had a cigar with him.  A Maker's Mark bourbon cigar.   Country your a bourbon guy, if you haven't tried it yet, I recommend it.  It had such a nice flavor to it.

Had you added new cigars to the humidor? Sometimes new cigars can bring moisture with them. I've seen the makers mark somewhere, but not sure where.

Had one of these bad boys over the weekend.  Overall it was pretty good.  I'd give it 8/10 tokes!

(http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee257/ikethegreat/IMG_001723_zps0e097a1e.jpg) (http://s230.photobucket.com/user/ikethegreat/media/IMG_001723_zps0e097a1e.jpg.html)

I've had a few sticks over the past few weeks. I tried a nub habaño. It was terrible, I had to waste it. I could not stand the taste of it. Went into the humidor and picked out a pardon 1964 principe natural which was a great smoke, it had a mellow yet crisp taste to it. Not a lot of pepper to it.

Last Friday after physical therapy, I had some time to kill, so I went and had a davidoff number 3. It's an expensive stick, but well worth the money. It was very mellow, I sat and thoroughly enjoyed every puff of that cigar.

The next day, we went to the cigar shop and I had an aurora 100 años. It was a pretty good smoke, but I kept having to relight it, which made it a little spicy. It would not burn evenly, nor would it stay lot for more than 30 seconds if I sat it down. Once it would mellow out from the relight, it was not very harsh with pepper, but you could tell there was some spicy to it. Great overall flavor though.  I believe the problem with it was that they keep the humidor at a pretty high relative humidity(72%).

Pretty excited, I'm goin home this weekend for my bday and its Musikfest!  So ill def be stoppin at Cigars International on Main St and grabbin a few sticks to take home. :)

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/08/03/ny6ugape.jpg)

:D

You should try the serie v melanio.

Ike - what shops are you going to? I only know of a one decent one in Hunt Valley.

Ill look for it tomorrow.

And if you haven't tried it yet, the tatuaje  7th capa especial is a great smoke. In fact, that's what I had last night, went out for drinks with some friends and had one when I got home. I white trashed the hell out if it too. I used my pocket knife to cut it(I don't own a cutter), a bic lighter to light(my friends gf still has my torch), and my tailgate as a cigar rest. While sitting in a camo folding chair.

Hahaha awesome.

I had to go back to the shop last night to recut the end.  I didn't open it enough and was barely gettin anything out of it. (Didnt have my cutter on me).

But they had a buy 5 singles get one free, so I grabbed a few.  I got another Makers Mark 562, Punch Barenuckle Pita, Gurkha Ghost Angel, Black Ops Maduro Torpedo and a Ditka Throwback.

They no had... :(

Got a Rocky Patel Fifty instead.   Good,  but it keeps goin out on me.  :/

Sorry to hear it keeps going out.  The Rocky Patel 50 Robusto was #8 on Cigar Aficionado's top 25 cigars of 2012.  I have a few in my humidor that I'm letting rest.

I really liked it.   Cigars international had em on clearance or somethin.

Ryan maybe next year when you come down here for the big bike race I'll pull a few opus x's from the humidor for us to share.

I haven't found a decent local shop yet. 

I've ordered most of my sticks from http://cigarsinternational.com/ (http://cigarsinternational.com/) and http://cigarbid.com/ (http://cigarbid.com/)

I'm waiting on a shipment of cigars from Tim haha

How much?  I may have to go over to their site to look for them.



I still need your address.

Well it said clearance but I'm not sure the regular price.  They had em for $9.

Just had an A Fuente Short Story.  This one had some age on it.  About 8-10 months.  This is a cigar that I have overlooked in the past for some reason.  These are cigars that I would get a box of just to always have one on hand.

I finally had the between the lines last night. Tim, you were right, it was a great smoke once it started to calm down a little bit. After that, I finished my chattanooga whiskey and coke and my buddy decided he wanted to chill at the cigar shop longer. We ordered another round of drinks so I figured I'd grab a small cigar to have with this drink. Went with the Oliva Connecticut reserve petit corona. It was a little on the weak side, but still had some spice to it. The spice could have been left over from the AF BTL though.

A cigar shop with its own bar that you can smoke in?  I wish we had one of those around here.

/\ This!

I actually prefer to enjoy cigars in the comfort of my home (err garage or back patio) over smoking in cigar shops/lounges. I reek of smoke after I leave and don't like having to pay for beverage. It's just not comfortable for me. The hobby of cigars is all about relaxation for me, so going somewhere I will be uncomfortable just takes away from the experience. When I buy a house, the garage will be big enough for a couch and one or two comfy chairs and also heated for the winter.

I'm enjoying an A Fuente Hemingway that I received as a Christmas present last December. Good smoke!

Enjoyin a Gurkha Ghost that I got while I was home.   I really like it.   Only complaint is that it smokes a lot... like even when I'm not smokin it and its just sittin... idk

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/08/18/ery5arus.jpg)

Enjoyed this CAO MX3 Escaparate Robusto tonight.  Thanks Country!

(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/null_zps0ab2a2f5.jpg)

So how are the flavor notes? Was it as strong as you were hoping it wasn't?

I think it was just about right for a triple maduro.  I couldn't nub it, but I thoroughly enjoyed smoking it.  It would have been different if I were home and had a second beverage.

Really glad you enjoyed it. I think the fact that It was aged 7years really helps tone it down.

So I stumbled upon a company that makes cigar review notebooks. It seems pretty sweet, for new and experienced smokers alike.

Www.warpedpuro.com

Had another one of my Vegas 5s the other day... hit me funny.  I felt kinda sick after smokin it.  Idk what the deal is.

I had a la aurora 101 the other day. It was a bit on the spicy side. Plus, it didn't want to stay lit, I has to relight it twice.

Finally had a chance to try an A. Fuente.. got the torpedo version while I was in FL.. nice and smooth.

I really like a lot of the A Fuente line

Going camping this weekend.  I can't wait to try out a couple new cigars!   8-)

What are you bringing with you?

Opus X in stock at cigarhustler.com

So, last night I transitioned my cigars into my newly built humidor. I took an ammocan that I wasn't using, and lined it with 1/4" thick Spanish cedar. I got it seasoned over the weekend, and filled it up last night. It was relatively cheap to build.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/09/29/ygyve7y7.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/09/29/ra7eneja.jpg)

Don Pepin Garcia’s Tabacos Baez Serie SF, made at the My Father Cigars factory in Nicaragua.  It was a surprising decent smoke for a mixed-filler cigar. 

It's been a while since anyone has posted in here, so I figured I'd get some of you fuckers excited again.  I've been going a little overboard buying cigars lately, so I figured I would share some of the sticks that I've picked up and the ones that have been gifted to me lately.  My 500 count and 120 count humidors are pretty much full now, so I am looking at getting something that I can use to store the cigars that I have been collecting and will be aging for a few years.

For those of you that don't know, Arturo Fuente Añejo's are available right now.  They only become available once a year and are a limited production.  Also, Arturo Fuente Opus X is also around.  If you find an Opus X Destino al Siglio, pick one up.  The tobacco used for those cigars has been aged for 50 years.  If you look around, the Tatuaje Monster Series Jason Voorhees should still be around.  Finally, CAO has a special Christmas release of the Angry Santa (natural) and Evil Snowman (maduro), which is a tweaked version of the La Traviata line.

Now, here is some cigar porn.  It's not everything I picked up recently, but it's most of it.
Humidor #1
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/0B9333B8-44FA-4EC7-AE26-FC3525A65DBE_zpspnnwurfg.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/449B28BB-021F-4434-B80D-0561B858A183_zpsnkwwinwv.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/96CF8853-F4CC-4A16-9C0D-83EA41B417C3_zpsrxsmchkp.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/E97D7A62-3625-4C7D-A6C9-30C5170577E8_zpsuumadjlx.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/CA9E9A25-BD2C-4680-B0AE-E001C2FA4D22_zps4ghsdct3.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/3AC4D97F-05D8-4E53-ACD8-01538DC04393_zps8ooz1ruj.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/A96C90F0-488C-423B-A1A3-E6A854B68D42_zpswc1dedvn.jpg)

Humidor #2
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/5B26D31A-2865-456B-8390-5718F94126E3_zpsjwgdkdfx.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/BCAFF31E-3631-4154-8C87-8311EE5F6342_zps4pj61wsm.jpg)
(http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g274/timot_one/Cigar%20Pictures/58943F2C-DC7F-4438-9727-199F483D4BDB_zpsljnlbsat.jpg)

The other day I stopped by a new cigar shop in east Nashville called smokers abbey. The guy working the shop gave me a tour and made some suggestions. I tried the JD Howard reserve by Crowned heads Cigar company.

Pretty interesting back story with both the name of the cigar, and the company itself. The company, Crowned heads cigar company is based out of the former CAO facility in Nashville. The Founder of the company, was a former CEO of CAO. A few years ago, CAO moved their facilities out of Nashville, which is when the former CEO decided to establish his own brand.

Now, as for the name JD Howard. Pardon my history lesson, but the historic outlaw Jesse James lived in East Nashville for some 6 years while hiding from ole johnny law. They named the cigar after him, I guess, to honor his presence in Nashville. It was a great medium-full bodied smoke, had some pepper, but well blended.

Damnnnn Tim, that is quite the collection.  What is the name of the cigars that are twisted together?

Those that are twisted together are culebra. Not sure which brand he has(I think tatuaje) but he will correct me. They are meant for friends to share. They are made by special tobacco rollers who braid them while the tobacco is still moist.

Thanks.  It's taken a little bit of time and a lot of money to amass the collection I have today.  I'm just trying to get my hands on hard to find and rare cigars to age.  A lot of these cigars will sit for a few years before I smoke them.

Mike is correct.  The braided cigars are called culebras, which is Spanish for snake.  The ones I have are Tatuaje's.  They came in a coffin with a Lancero, called "The Old Man & The C".  There are a few myths or stories about culebras, but I think none of them are true.  In all honesty, it's just a way to generate some buzz by cigar manufacturers.  It's also a great conversation piece and way to share a cigar with 2 of your friends.

Here are a couple of the stories.

That is really cool, I've never heard of them before.  I got a few friends that smoke so I got to keep an eye out for one. 

I haven't really seen any of them in shops.  You can find them online though.  Davidoff makes one called the Special C.  I know that Partagas makes one too.

I think burns sells some culebra's. I'll have to look this week.

If they have the Davidoff or Partagas ones, I'll have to try and pick some up.  The next time I'm down in that area, I need to swing through there.

Cigars International sent me a $10 gift card as a Xmas gift so I ordered a sampler.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/20/qymatunu.jpg)

One of you point out a good sampler? I need something to relax maybe a smoke would do it

I'm no good to ask, I just look for a sampler with one I wanna try and go from there... in this case it was the SOA cigar. Lol

Also, noticed the other day that my humidor is reading low (50-55%) when all year its been sitting  perfect at around 69%.   Thought my hardiness might just need calibrated so I did the salt test for 24 hrs and it reads perfect.  Put it back in and it dropped right back down to 50-55%.  I use a Humi-care jar to humidity it, any idea how long they are supposed to last?

Mike, are you wanting a sampler pack, or just a cigar to try?

I usually recommend the padron 1964 superior, the tatuaje 7th capa especial, or the Liga Privada #9. Another one if my recent smokes that I enjoyed very thoroughly was the drew estate undercrown.

If you're looking for a sampler pack, cigars international dot com or cigarhustler dot com do some pretty great sampler packs.

I'll check that out thisbweek

I wasn't paying attention to my humidor and let the 72% packs dry up.  The gauge was reading ~55% when I put in fresh 69% packs.  After about two weeks, it has been hovering around only 60%.  Should I throw in another pack or do I have to reseason this thing again? 

I'd just add another pack or two keep an eye on it.  Usually, I try to keep an eye on my humidors once a week and recalibrate my hygrometers every 3-6 months.

Been a while since anyone has posted in here. Lately I've been taking advantage of the awesome weather and enjoying a stick most nights. For anyone interested, I've been posting pics on Instagram. If you want to follow me, I'm using the same screen name as here.

I need to smoke more, it's been a hectic little while

I know those feels Mike. I've been smoking a little too much I think. Seems like I've lit up a cigar every night for the past week.

I just had my first real cigar of the year last night. (Real meaning not a Phillies Blunt)

People actually smoke Phillies?!   :P

It was even a phillie... it was some weird off brand look a like.  Lol

I wouldn't call that a bad thing? What all have you smoked recently?

Lots of stuff.  Tatuaje Hecho a Mano and Tattoo, Padron 1964 Anniversary Principe natural, Nica Rustica, Liga Privada No 9 Belicoso and Gurkha Royal Challenge are a few that I can recall.  I'm going down to Lexington today for a few days, so I might pick up a few sticks down there since I know of a few shops that have a good selection.

How are Gurkha cigars?  I was thinking about getting a Gurkha sampler pack one of these days.

I've have a Gurkha legends that I really enjoyed. My good friend is all about Gurkha cigars

I enjoyed the two Gurkhas I've tried so far. Give 'em a try and see if you like it.

Liga Privada Papas Fritas... Om nom nom. Acquire them! It was a fantastic smoke.

I had an EP Carillo E Stunner tonight. Thoroughly enjoyed it too.

I really enjoyed the E-Stunner. I had won one in a contest

The only complaint I have about the e stunner is the draw is a bit tight and it seems to get clogged while smoking it.

I got that too, but it wasn't unbearable to me.

It was annoying and took away from the experience. Definitely a detractor though.

Was it just from being rolled too tight?

I have no idea. I have a few more, so I'll try another.

Lol I have successfully filled both my humidor, and Lori's tupperdor... Hopefully this big box by her door is the new humidor

Hopefully.

I need another humidor.

If you want to fix them, maybe we can work something out on the 50 and 20 count humidors I'm not using

I need another big one. I really want to get a wineador.

Today should be the big day. I swapped to the 69%rh boveda packs yesterday, so far my digital hygro is saying 72, which is down from last night at 76

Hope the Rh goes down more. Just remember to be patient.

I picked up a few sticks yesterday when I was out. Wish I had more money because I wanted more of the rare ones that I've been searching for.

I also received a box full of FFP's on Friday thanks to Mike.

Did you get some 888's too??? I hope so cause I felt bad for not sharing

Yeah. I got a few of the Añejo 888's and Undercrown Pigs. I would have bought more if I have more $$$, but I had to be responsible.

Yeah, I kinda threw responsibility out the window this weekend. Got some of the tatuaje black label hecho a Mano, undercrown pigs, then went to another shop today and got some Ezra Zion FHK and tantrum and some new boutique brand that the rep was there promoting.

I'm catching up Tim... (http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/30/9b27a4795bfeec94dc2098557620da2e.jpg)(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/30/acaba778416a23d7a006dad767e123ed.jpg)(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/30/d9c14023a9f98ed0bd752079d707cb01.jpg)

:fuckyeah:

I'll have to post some pictures too. Not sure if I posted the pics I took a few months ago when I played Tetris.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/30/b554b0713026932a898d73d8fac5674c.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/30/e859394d8e90201a12fdd848a1b6748f.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/30/220f592bbc7f957853e183f733454c55.jpg)

So jealous of your collections.  I'm down to about a dozen sticks. 

It's all about building it up slowly with quality sticks that you enjoy. I'm starting to get the dog rockets out of my humidors and continuing to replace them with something more enjoyable. For me, I go through phases where I buy cigars and other phases where I don't spend a dime.

I really want to buy a box of the pudgy monsters. I've been spending too much on cigars lately. After next weekend when I go to Silo in Knoxville and pick up some warped el oso I should be done for a little while.

Mike....

.....we need to talk. :suspect:

Haha I know what you want.

I love those El Oso Cub's.

Thanks Mike!
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/01/833ac3657db9606b239c617a674ed1e5.jpg)

Rarrr

Rarr

:-X

People down here in the Keys selling hand rolled cigars... Worth a try or no good?

Might be worth trying.  What are they going for?

May be worth it. The main thing  to remember is that some cigars are better with age, while others are better fresh.

15 - 20 each... I didn't bite. I think there is a lot of "tourist" pricing here in the keys

For that price, I probably wouldn't have. Mike, I should probably send you a warped cigars el oso. Seeing as how z and I think Nelson use to always describe you as a big teddy bear. That and it's a phenomenal smoke.

I am big and soft.

Smart move Mike. Definitely stay away from them at those prices. For $5, why not take a chance, but not for $15-20.

If you are ever at a cigar shop and need a recommendation, just shoot me a text.

For the month of October, I've been smoking my Tatuaje Little Monsters that I got back in 2012. So far I've had 2, and plan on having the rest of the selections from this limited release sampler by Halloween.

Mini Mum
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/12/4280f3609f01ce60c8072797725fd92b.jpg)

Frank Jr.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/12/ef8787b0167a1fb2d39f906a5823f051.jpg)

I still need to get a box of pudgies. Was planning in it this paycheck, but that changed lol

He is a giant teddy bear.

My brother just got me a humidor for my birthday. The analog dial says its 60 and I've been trying to bring the humidity level up little by little before I start storing cigars in it.

Have you calibrated the hygrometer? And what are u using for humidity?

Analog hygrometers are garbage. They are completely inaccurate and are really only good for decoration. Get a digital hygrometer and calibrate it before you start guessing the humidity with that analog one.

A good xikar can be had for around 17 bucks on ebay.

I'll look into that. I'm using these packet things for humidity.

Stoked, Friday after work, I'm going to a shop in east nasty to get more warped cigars!

Mike. We need to talk...

Lol this blows! I really want to pick some up tomorrow, but my check was short due to our shitty time entry system. Oh well, guess I'll pull from savings to buy cigars

You gonna have to give me a call tomorrow. Trust me, you'll want to.

Haha I'll call you when I start work

I ordered a digital hygrometer today and some gel stuff

Gel stuff isn't that great. It's only a 1 way hydration system. I would suggest Boveda packs or Heartfelt beads. Those are 2 way and will regulate humidity much better.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004QCAGM0/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?ref_=pe_385040_30332200_TE_item

That's the stuff I ordered.

Yeah.  I know what you mean by the gel stuff.  It's not as good.

The two way humidification systems (Boveda packs and Heartfelt beads) will not only add humidification if the Rh is too low, but they will also draw in the excess moisture if the Rh is too high.  The gel stuff only releases moisture, it doesn't regulate the Rh.

I'll look into that

Thanks Tim

IMO, Boveda packs are the easiest solution. They're simple, replaceable, require no maintenance and last for months. I use them in my travel humidors all the time.

And they are pretty affordable from Amazon. 

I just smoked the last cigar in my humidor this weekend.   :(

Any suggestions on some reasonable priced sticks?  Or anyone got some extra inventory they want to sell cheap?

My suggestion is for a Perdomo 2005 Small Batch 10 year aged Connecticut Half Corona. Smoke inn sells a 5er for $25, or $5 a stick. It's a nice mild cigar and won't break the bank. I've refrained from buying any cigars (unless I find something truly rare) until I am gainfully employed again.

I picked up some Cuban cigars, Montecristo havaianas, in Nassau when I was in the Bahamas.  Very nice smoke but for $20 per stick, they had better be. 

I'm hoping to get my hands on the 20th anniversary opus X AF is going to put out at the convention this week!

After that, I'm going to work on getting some Cohiba Siglo III's

I've curbed my cigar purchases. I've been trying to deplete my humidors, but someone keeps sending me sticks.

Haha. I mean we can turn the tables.

I do need to get rid of a few more blind mans bluff's though.

No thanks. Not after what you said about them.

lol that's why I haven't mailed you any.