Lighting up

[Mikey-OH]

Greetings to all you cigar pros.
I thought I might ask a typical newbie question to see what you guys generally recommend for lighting up a fine cigar.
Real quick, some background on my smoking preferences: Until recently, I have never paid too much attention to cigar quality or brands, strength, etc. Mostly, I would buy a cigar for a round of golf or we might get into a few at a NASCAR race. Basically, a very casual smoker.
Anyway, as I have began to give this form of relaxation the attention it deserves, I have noticed that one of the things that can greatly impact my impression of a smoke is the lighting of the cigar and the first few draws.
I wonder if you guys have certain procedures or things you do to get off on the right foot.
Thanks for your help.

I found a great link that has a few different techniques for lighting with different lighters and matches, including the long cigar match method mentioned by Cls515 (that seems like a perfect way to do it if you're patient).

http://link.brightcove.com/services/...tid=1078745909

enjoy.

[WeldonSmokin]

OK guys, thanks.
i just got a Colibri torch lighter. It came empty, so I need to fill it up before I can use it. That would appear to be the ticket. I'll try toasting it some before firing-up.
Mike: Thanks for the link. I just love the stuff one can find on this here Internet thang.
A couple weeks ago, I was in a cigar bar that used some very slender strips of cedar to light our cigars. I had never heard of that method being used before, so that inspired me ask you guys if there is a preferred way.
I guess the main thing is to get it going good and evenly, then sit back and enjoy.

[spiffykyle]

The cedar strips is the "old school" gentlemanly way to light a cigar. If you use a match, just make sure all the sulfur has burned off before you apply flame to stick, or you'll get a nasty aroma/taste. And don't use a zippo type lighter. The fuel used in zippos will also impart an odd taste.

I use a cheap single flame colibri torch, or a disposable bic, and toast the foot before lighting. You don't want to char the cigar by lighting it too fast or you'll get a really nasty taste for the first few puffs.

When buying fuel for your lighter, try and get the really good stuff. Bad fuel will gunk up your lighter and render it useless. Do a search on the board and you'll find plenty of advice about fuel and re-filling lighters.

spiffy