Stogie Tips: Accoutrements You May Never Have Considered

When cigar devotees think about accessories, they usually dwell on lighters, cutters, and perhaps small containers of pectin.

But there are a few items that may not seem to have anything to do with smoking I think you should consider keeping on hand. I know they’ve come in handy for me time after time.

1. Large paper clip. Unfold it and you’ve got just the tool necessary to unplug a cigar—or to hold the foot if you really want to nub the smoke. Turning the paper clip as you rub it across rough concrete will sharpen the end, making for an even better cigar implement.

2. Zipper-locking storage bags. Of course, everyone’s familiar with these for short-term cigar storage. But they are valuable for so much more. Several matchboxes fit perfectly in small ones, and long styles are ideal for keeping cedar spills. You’ll likely be amazed at the uses you’ll find for the bags.

3. Eye dropper. In the local pharmacy, you’ll find the oversize, plastic model sold to help people take liquid medicine. I find it ideal for applying distilled water to humidification beads, especially those in tubes.

4. Pen and pad. I’m not referring to the notebook or whatever you might use to keep notes on your cigar smoking experiences. This is separate, and primarily for when you‘re smoking alone. It’s almost impossible, in the relaxed state with a cigar, not to have some thoughts you don’t want to forget.

5. Snus tin. Feel free to substitute an Altoids tin or any other small container that opens and closes easily and tightly. These simply can’t be beat for keeping track of odds and ends.

–George E

photo credit: Flickr