Ring Gauge

Ring gauge refers to the diameter (thickness) of a cigar, measured in 64ths of an inch. For example, a cigar with a 50 ring gauge has a diameter of 50⁄64 inches. Ring gauge, along with length, defines a cigar’s size, and it plays a major role in shaping the draw, burn rate, and flavor experience.

Visual scale of common cigar ring gauges

Key Characteristics

  • Measurement Unit: 64ths of an inch
  • Range: Typically from 30 (slim) to 70+ (extra large)
  • Common Sizes:
    • Panatela: ~36
    • Corona: ~42
    • Robusto: ~50
    • Gordo: ~60

Citation: Cigar Aficionado – Cigar Sizes Explained

How Ring Gauge Affects the Smoking Experience

Ring gauge isn’t just a number—it affects almost every aspect of how a cigar performs:

1. Draw and Airflow

  • Larger ring gauges typically allow more airflow and produce a cooler, looser draw
  • Smaller ring gauges offer a tighter draw and more intense, concentrated smoke

2. Burn Rate

  • Thinner cigars (e.g., 38–44) burn faster and hotter
  • Thicker cigars (e.g., 54–60+) burn slower and stay cooler

3. Flavor Balance

  • Thinner cigars emphasize the wrapper, making them ideal for tasting subtle nuances
  • Thicker cigars emphasize the filler, allowing more complex blending

Ring Gauge Chart: Common Sizes

Ring Gauge Cigar Type Example Flavor Profile Tendency
30–36 Cigarillo, Panatela Fast burn, sharp, wrapper-heavy
38–42 Corona, Lonsdale Balanced, mild-to-medium
46–50 Robusto, Churchill Full flavor, medium draw
52–56 Toro, Torpedo Cooler burn, fuller body
60–70+ Gordo, Magnum Slowest burn, boldest fill

Why Ring Gauge Matters When Choosing a Cigar

  • If you enjoy flavor clarity: Try thinner cigars (38–44 RG)
  • If you want a long-lasting, cooler smoke: Go with a Gordo (60+)
  • For a classic balance of body and flavor: Choose a 50-ring Robusto or 52-ring Toro
  • If pairing with drinks: Larger ring gauges pair well with stronger spirits, thinner gauges with lighter beverages

Tools for Measuring Ring Gauge

  • Cigar ring gauge rulers: Physical guides for in-humidor use
  • Digital calipers: For accuracy (divide mm by 0.396875 to convert to ring gauge)
  • Packaging details: Most manufacturers list ring gauge alongside length

Related Glossary Terms

Summary

Ring gauge is one of the most important cigar measurements and has a direct impact on smoking time, strength perception, and how the blend comes across. Whether you prefer the sharpness of a 38-ring Panatela or the long, cool burn of a 60-ring Gordo, understanding ring gauge will help you choose cigars that match your flavor preferences, pacing, and lifestyle.