Humidity

[ggiese]

Thanks for all the help everyone! Continue to learn every day. Do I have to worry about my cigars falling apart? Is that more of a long time aging issue?

You're quite welcome.

As far as the cigars falling apart - it really depends on a number of factors. How long the cigars have been stored as less than optimal rH, the skill of the cigar roller, the type of tobacco used in the cigar, the region the tobacco was grown, etc., etc., etc.

I would say - if you can't afford a chilled mirror hygrometer, stick with the standard issue electronic ones - or in their place - use a analog hygrometer. Since it's very likely you'll not be able to optimal humidity (since you don't have the proper equipment), I would just eyeball it. You know - get it to somewhere around 60-75 rH. I know the cigars won't be as good as if they're sitting on a constant 72, but certainly is you smoke them reasonably soon after you acquire them - they should be very delicious anyway...

Good luck!