Cigar 101 - How to Select the Right Cigars*
If you're ready to join the ranks of cigar smokers, here is how to get started. The first step is selecting the right cigars to "practice" with. You should start by choosing several different single cigars at your local tobacconist. Do not buy a box of cigars until you have sampled a few singles, first. Don't be afraid to ask the owner or manager for advice.
Choose Mild Cigars
Mild cigars are recommended for beginners, since the more full-flavored cigars would most likely taste too strong (or just plain bad) to a new smoker. Mild cigars are also the least expensive, so you won't have to worry about ruining an expensive cigar by lighting it incorrectly, or by cutting too much off the closed end.
Inspect the Cigar
Once you have determined which type of cigar(s) to purchase, gently squeeze the cigar to determine if there are any hard or soft spots.
You don't want to take a chance on buying a cigar with a bad draw, or worse yet, one that is plugged and not smoke able. Tip: Reputable tobacconists will usually replace a plugged cigar. Also, inspect the wrapper for cracks or discolorations.
Protect & Smoke
If you do not yet own a humidor, do not buy more cigars than you can smoke within a couple of days, and make sure to leave them in their cellophane packaging (if applicable) until you're ready to smoke. Never leave an unprotected cigar exposed to the elements, as it will quickly dry out. You can temporarily store cigars in a Tupperware or similar container.
Keeping your cigars protected is very important, if your cigars dry out they are un-smoke able and therefore money thrown out the window. Luckily, Northstar Cases offers inexpensive waterproof, crushproof, protective travel humidors to protect your cigars anywhere and everywhere you want to go. These travel humidors are completely waterproof which means they are airtight. So with the built in humidification disk they maintain your cigars at about 70% humidity for months at a time. After a few months you can just refill the humidification disk with propylene glycol or distilled water to “restart” your humidor. Your cigars are an investment worth protecting so pick up a waterproof, crushproof, protective travel humidor from Northstar Cases today!
*Article from cigars.about.com