Hard Cigars

[Mattb82]

Searched threads and couldn't find anything related. I purchased some aged Monty 2 sticks from a different site I had used before I found FOH. Moving forward this site is my go to. Anyways the first one from box one I smoked was absolutely milk chocolate perfection. The second box and some of the first after inspection tonight had a bunch of them extremely hard to the pinch. They just got here so I tried one of the hard ones and the draw was horrible and unsmokeable  Can shipping cause this and they will possibly loosen up after a few weeks in the humidor? I know they need downtime but not sure if these can be fixed  

Really pissed if only half will be good 

[archosaur]

Sorry man, that's a bummer.  You might do a search for 'plugged' cigars or 'tight draw' as there have been many discussions on this.  It's an extra bummer since I can't ever recall having a tight draw from a piramide.  Not to say it is not possible, just that you hear of many more problems with the longer/skinnier cigars.  For me, I have had the worst luck with lonsdales in particular.

In any case, if they are very firm a few weeks in the humi is unlikely to make any difference.  Clipping the caps and extended dry boxing may help.  A draw poker may help. Some fridge time just prior to smoking may help.  A little massage sometimes opens things up.  Everyone has their different tricks, but don't expect success with an extremely firm cigar.

If it is a reputable vendor, they may compensate you.  Let them know your concerns.  Half a box is unacceptable.

[stogieluver]

Monte 2's are notoriously inconsistent in construction due to the huge number produced to meet demand.  What is the box code/date? 

I would give them a good 60 to 90 days to acclimate and possibly lose some moisture that could have been acquired in the shipping process (assuming your humi's rH is low 60's @ around 70dF).   

[Mattb82]

Thanks guys, I'll search tight draw, just didn't have the right phrase in there. BLP May 08 on both. I'm hoping it was just that one and the others that are hard still draw well. They definitely need rest but the first one was the absolute best cigar I've ever had. Was like chocolate nestle quick 

[foursite12]

Agree with stogieluver. Monte 2 have been the most inconsistent cigars I have purchased, even within the same box. I can also confirm that hardness does not necessarily mean poor draw--often quite the contrary.  One thing to suggest is that you be sure to clip enough from the head.  Sometimes with piramides, the temptation is to keep much of the taper. Clipping more may open things up for you. I clip a little, test draw, clip a bit more, test, etc.  Good luck!

[Smallclub]

Are the "hard" cigars heavier than the others? If the difference in weight is notable they might be overfilled or over humidified or a bit of both.

[Mattb82]

@Smallclubnot really heavier, just some really hard spots. Put them down for a rest. Hopefully helps 

[earthson]

The firmness of a cigar doesn't really translate to how well it will draw, at least for CC. The only way to find out is to clip and test it for yourself.

How does the foot bunching look? I've found that to be a much more reliable indicator of how it will draw and burn.

[RickHendeson]

I've found one of your better bets was to clip the end before resting.  Doesn't always work, but seems to help often