I generally look carefully at the cap and cut with a xicar, trying avoid cutting all of one end of cap off. I light with a torch or multiple matches. I always puts the foot in the flame directly, as i get it red-hot. Then I hit the center with the flame and puff. It initially tastes awful but the burn seems worth it to me. The rate I smoke is completely determined by the strength and how stuffed the cigar is. I tend to be a power smoker, unless its a special occasion.