Short Filler

Short filler refers to tobacco used inside a cigar that is made from chopped, shredded, or leftover pieces of tobacco leaf—rather than full-length leaves (long filler). While often associated with machine-made cigars, short filler is also used in some handmade blends, particularly those aiming to balance price and performance.

Short filler cigars tend to burn faster, may lack complexity, and often have a looser draw, but they can still deliver a satisfying experience for casual smokers or those looking for affordable, everyday cigars.

Deconstructed short filler cigar
Image by Wouter van Emmerik / CC BY-SA 3.0 - Wikimedia Commons

What Is Short Filler Made From?

Short filler typically includes:

  • Trimmings and cuttings from premium long filler production
  • Broken tobacco leaves
  • In some cases, a mix of tobacco from different countries or varietals

This chopped tobacco is machine-bunched or hand-rolled with assistance, then bound and wrapped like any other cigar.

Characteristics of Short Filler Cigars

Feature Short Filler
Tobacco Format Chopped pieces, remnants
Burn Rate Faster, sometimes uneven
Flavor Profile Simpler, less dynamic
Price Range Lower-cost, budget-friendly
Draw Easier but less controlled
Construction Quality Varies, can be looser or less consistent

Advantages of Short Filler Cigars

  • Affordable price point
  • Easier draw and lighter smoke (in some cases)
  • Faster smoke — convenient for shorter breaks
  • Often used in flavored or infused cigars
  • Great for new smokers or casual use

Limitations

  • Burn inconsistencies due to uneven tobacco pieces
  • Less flavor complexity compared to long filler cigars
  • Ash retention is weaker, may flake more
  • Can burn hotter, especially toward the end

Premium vs. Economy Use

While short filler is typically used in machine-made cigars, some brands combine short and long filler (mixed filler) to balance quality and cost. These are sometimes referred to as "Cuban sandwich" cigars.

Examples include:

  • La Flor Dominicana Reserva Especial Seconds – mixed filler from long filler scraps
  • Factory throwouts and seconds – budget options using short filler
  • Mass-market brands – like Garcia y Vega, Phillies, and Dutch Masters

Citation: Cigar Aficionado – How Cigars Are Made

Short Filler vs. Long Filler

Attribute Short Filler Long Filler
Leaf Format Chopped/shredded Whole leaves running full cigar length
Burn Quality Often faster, sometimes uneven Slow, even burn
Complexity One-dimensional Evolving, nuanced flavor
Common Usage Machine-made or budget cigars Premium, handmade cigars

Related Glossary Entries

Summary

Short filler cigars may not carry the prestige of long filler premiums, but they serve an important role in the cigar world—offering accessible prices, shorter smoke times, and mass appeal. For newcomers or those seeking a quick and casual experience, short filler cigars remain a practical and enjoyable option.