I've said this before - but this is just a reminder. I'll be breaking BOTL over time in order to get it into a far better place. Just be patient if you can't reach us! We'll be back
Congrats Hop!!
Will the other cigars be reviewed or is there just one winner and that's it? Is this the end? I'm not sure how this is supposed to work.
Nice work! Just rolling the wrapper into a twist end doesn't keep the wrapper from coming loose and wanting to unravel while smoking. The addition of the 'flag' basically tapes the end of the cigar closed and holds it with glue. This is a very important step. Even after cutting the end of the...
Cohiba, love the label but it's probably the most counterfeit cigar out there. I'd never buy one not knowing what you're getting. Most are overpriced junk. I'd rather pay for a good Nic or Dom cigar and know what I'm getting is genuine.
I'd suggest having your filler at the proper case for rolling prior to rolling. That means your filler is dry almost to the point of cracking. I would NOT spray the filler at the time of rolling. The binder should be slightly softer and more pliable and needs no further wetting prior to rolling...
I don't like 'arguments' as such. An argument seems to have an underlying anger. No one seems to win since their minds are already made up and often leads to ill feelings. On the other hand, having a discussion instead of arguing and sharing opposing ideas is a great learning tool.
Cigar rolling is a minimalist art, especially at the highest level. It's a beautiful thing that you really need very few tools to perform. A sharp blade on a hard surface is really all that's needed to make a few simple cuts. You want a chaveta as your blade, get one. No big investment...
Pizza cutter is just fine. Like Jim says, a cutting board plank is fine. I use a granite tile from Floor and Decor for $9. A good pair of scissors is nice also.
The point being, you don't really need to spend money on the basic tools. You probably have them already. The tobacco is where money...
Rolling your first cigar is a lot like losing your virginity.
There can only be one 'first cigar'. I remember so clearly how nervous I was. Taking the unfamiliar leaf in my trembling fingers and trying my best to be gentle. Twisting and rolling in an unfamiliar way yet some how, some way...
It appears he takes the excess at the very end and folds it over? Appears to be the standard Dominican style, no?
Makes a nice looking appearance but I would think the Cuban style triple cap is more secure.
Yes, must use the gauge to see the results.
I find these especially helpful in a larger cubic area where it would take many packs of Boveda or Heartfelt beads to get even close. Much too costly. This is a far less expensive way to get the job done and by following what Mar L says, you can make...
Not necessarily easier but I do think it takes cigar making back to the day when it took some skill to roll a proper cigar. Your hands control the entire process. When you place the cigar in a mold you relinquish that control and hope it fits in the mold properly but inevitably some will be too...