my little cigars

As someone who enjoys the occasional cigar, I was intrigued when I first heard about little cigars. These small, thin cigars are gaining popularity among smokers, but what exactly are they and how do they differ from traditional cigars?

Little cigars, also known as cigarillos, are smaller versions of traditional cigars. They typically have a length of around 3-4 inches and a ring gauge (diameter) of 20-29, making them slightly larger than cigarettes but smaller than regular cigars. They are hand-rolled or machine-made, and often have a filter or plastic tip for ease of smoking. Little cigars come in a variety of flavors, including menthol, vanilla, and cherry, making them more appealing to those who may not enjoy the taste of traditional cigars.

One of the main differences between little cigars and regular cigars is the type of tobacco used. Little cigars are made with homogenized tobacco leaf, which is a mixture of scraps and other tobacco by-products, whereas traditional cigars are made with whole tobacco leaves. This results in a milder flavor and less complex blends in little cigars compared to traditional cigars. However, some little cigars use long-filler tobacco, similar to traditional cigars, giving them a more authentic taste.

Little cigars are often seen as a more affordable option compared to traditional cigars. This is because they are taxed differently as they are classified as cigarettes rather than cigars. While this may make them more budget-friendly, it is important to note that little cigars still contain nicotine and other harmful substances found in cigarettes and should be consumed in moderation.

So, who exactly is smoking these little cigars? According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the majority of little cigar smokers are young adults, between the ages of 18-25. This may be due to the perception that little cigars are less harmful than cigarettes, which has been debunked by the CDC. They found that little cigars contain similar levels of nicotine and toxins as cigarettes, making them just as harmful to one’s health.

Another reason for the rise in popularity of little cigars may be the ease of access. As little cigars are classified as cigarettes, they are widely available in convenience stores and gas stations, unlike traditional cigars which are typically sold in specialty tobacco shops. This makes them more accessible to young adults who may not be aware of the potential health risks associated with smoking.

But where do I stand on little cigars after learning more about them? As an occasional cigar smoker, I do enjoy trying different brands and blends, but I also prioritize my health. Therefore, I was left feeling conflicted about little cigars. While I appreciate the convenience and variety, the potential risks associated with smoking them outweigh the perceived benefits.

In addition to the health concerns, little cigars also lack the ritual and tradition that is often associated with traditional cigars. The act of selecting, cutting, and lighting a cigar can be seen as a form of relaxation and indulgence. With little cigars, the focus is more on quick and easy consumption, rather than enjoying the process.

Despite my reservations, I decided to give little cigars a try. I purchased a pack of vanilla-flavored little cigars and decided to smoke one after a long day at work. Upon opening the pack, I was immediately hit with a strong, artificial vanilla scent. The little cigar itself felt flimsy and not as well-constructed as a traditional cigar. The plastic tip made it easier to hold, but I missed the feeling of a solid, hand-rolled cigar in my hand.

As I lit the little cigar, I noticed the smoke was thicker and harsher compared to traditional cigars. The vanilla flavor was overwhelming and artificial, making it difficult to taste any tobacco. I could feel the nicotine hit me almost immediately, which was a surprise as I had smoked traditional cigars with much higher levels of nicotine without feeling the same effect.

After finishing the little cigar, I was left with a strong aftertaste in my mouth and a faint smell of vanilla that lingered on my clothes. Overall, it was not a pleasant experience, and I would not consider purchasing little cigars again.

In conclusion, little cigars may have their appeal to some, but as someone who enjoys the occasional cigar, I prefer to stick to traditional cigars. The slightly cheaper price and convenience are not worth the potential health risks and lack of tradition and ritual. I would advise others to also consider the potential consequences before indulging in little cigars. After all, our health is not something to take lightly, regardless of the packaging or marketing of a product.