torch v matches - which do you prefer?

[joncaputo]

So I have had this argument with several of my friends and there doesnt seem to be a consensus so I thought I would ask the question here. If you are indoors and there are no wind issues at all - and you have at your disposal torch lighter and a box of matches - which would you use to light your cigar and why?

Our two arguments that I have with my friends revolve around this:

1. torch lighter - fast and easy and better able to get a more even light across the foot

2. matches - argument here being using a torch can adversely affect flavor and matches are always ideal for cigars

What you do you guys think?

[happy1]

I prefer matches but I'm lazy so I usually use a torch

[Redbeard]

torch!!! espcially when i smoke outdoors. that wind can really make it imposible to get a good light.
just got a nice torch lighter the other day..very happy with it..
i like a torch because you can get the gar lite without even having to puff on it.
i think it makes it less hot initially and much more even burn

[eggwhites]

Torch FTW!

[shroom91]

I prefer torch.. it's an easlier light and you get a better even light. when i'm enjoying good smoke and relaxing i hate it if i got to relight my cigar to help it burn right

[Coop D]

torch since I smoke outside and chicagoland is damn windy

[SMOKE20]

Definitly a torch. I am always smoking outside and in windy areas. But I am not opposed to matches if I were to smoke at a lounge

[hayward_tenney]

Indoor scenario: Cedar spills for those REALLY nice cigars, but the torch is much quicker and easier.
Anywhere else: Torch without a doubt!

[righton727]

I always go for the torch due to ease of use.

[PremiumsOnly]

I go with matches if they are long enough to light with one strike. Otherwise, torch is the way to get to business asap.

[slowburn]

torch is what I, use no matter what..I can't stand it when I don't get a good even burn

[WillieDiesel-cl]

I almost always use a torch.

[cruisin66stang]

Fellow friend and BOTL tekhnu gave a Cigar 101 session at the recent Cigar Fest in Sugarland. One of the tips I learned is to light the cigar using whatever incendiary device you choose, but do not draw through the cigar until it is completely lit. After you have applied the flame for a few seconds, wave the cigar in the air and then re-apply the flame. Once you think it is burning, blow outward briefly. If not lit, repeat the process. Do not draw through the cigar until it is lit.

I have tried this technique on several occassions and the initial bitterness and bad taste is almost completely gone. It even seems that the cigar flavor is better from beginning to end. So my conclusion is that the way you light the cigar can have as much or more impact on the flaver than the device you use.

[Humidor Minister]

I like atorch. I can toast the cigar before drawing on it. This way I get a nice start on the cigar and it usually will burn more evenly.

[agctribefan]

I always use a torch. Its just a lot easier.