Cigarillo
A cigarillo is a short, narrow cigar—typically measuring between 3 to 4 inches in length with a ring gauge of 20 to 30. Unlike full-sized cigars, cigarillos are designed for quick, convenient smokes, often lasting around 10–15 minutes. While some cigarillos are handmade, most are machine-rolled and come pre-cut, eliminating the need for a cutter.
Key Characteristics
- Size: Generally 3–4 inches long, with a slender ring gauge
- Construction: Usually machine-made, though premium handmade options exist
- Wrapper: Often made with homogenized tobacco leaf (HTL) or natural wrapper leaf
- Cutting: Pre-cut and ready to smoke (no cutter required)
- Packaging: Commonly sold in tins, plastic packs, or small boxes
Cigarillo vs. Cigar: What's the Difference?
The primary difference lies in size, strength, and duration:
| Feature | Cigarillo | Full-Size Cigar |
| Length | 3–4 inches | 4.5–7 inches |
| Smoking Time | 5–15 minutes | 30–90 minutes |
| Strength | Typically milder | Can range from mild to full |
| Construction | Often machine-made | Usually handmade |
Cigarillos are not meant to replace the depth and ritual of a full cigar experience, but they serve a different purpose—accessibility and speed.
Citation: Davidoff Cigarillo Guide
Popular Uses
- Quick Breaks: Ideal for short smoke sessions during work or travel
- Introductory Product: Offers a milder entry point for beginners
- Casual Settings: Great for social events where long cigars may not be practical
- Flavored Options: Commonly infused with vanilla, cherry, or whiskey for flavored smoking experiences
Are Cigarillos Considered Cigars?
Legally, yes. According to the FDA, cigarillos fall under the definition of “little cigars” and are regulated similarly to full-sized cigars, particularly regarding sales restrictions and labeling requirements. However, they are sometimes taxed differently at the state level depending on their size and weight.
Citation: FDA – Cigar Regulations
Are Cigarillos Inhaled?
No—cigarillos are not meant to be inhaled, even though some users may do so out of habit (especially former cigarette smokers). Like premium cigars, the proper technique is to draw the smoke into your mouth and savor the flavor without pulling it into the lungs.
For those looking to shift away from cigarettes, switching to cigarillos should still be approached with care, especially considering the presence of nicotine and combustion.
Do Cigarillos Have Filters?
Some modern cigarillos include tips or filters, while others mimic traditional cigars with an open foot. Filtered cigarillos often blur the line between cigars and cigarettes, and are subject to additional scrutiny in health-related legislation.
Popular Cigarillo Brands
While Renegade Cigars focuses on premium, handmade cigars, notable cigarillo brands include:
- Davidoff Mini Cigarillos
- Cohiba Club
- Macanudo Ascot
- Swisher Sweets (flavored)
- Backwoods
Image by PeddderH / CC BY-SA 3.0 - Wikimedia Commons
Related Terms
Summary
Cigarillos offer a convenient, quick-smoking alternative to traditional cigars. While they lack the complexity and craftsmanship of larger formats, they fulfill a unique role in the cigar world—especially for smokers looking for a shorter session or casual experience. Whether flavored or natural, filtered or not, cigarillos are a versatile category worth understanding.