Quote Originally Posted by Socoemt View Post
First off, what cigar would you recommend to a beginner hobbyist? I had a Perdomo 10th anniversary and I really enjoyed it. Other than that I've smoked a few house brands but nothing that has really impressed.

Secondly, does it really matter what I light the cigar with, and how I light it? As a beginner will I really notice a difference between a regular lighter and something else?
I will echo what's already been said about trying a bunch of different cigars, but here's a few that I think are worth trying that aren't expensive:
Brick House (natural and maduro)
Alec Bradley Black Market
H. Upmann 1844 Reserve
Illusione Rothchilde
La Gloria Cubana
Padron X000 (2000 Maduro, for example)
Rocky Patel Edge (there are a bunch of different Edge, try them all if you want)
Tatuaje Tattoo (Tatuaje is popular around here, the Tattoo is a cheaper stick but I like it)

As far as lighting, just don't use a candle. And most will say don't use a Zippo because the lighter fluid can affect the cigar's taste, but I used a Zippo starting out and never noticed. Matches, a Bic lighter, or a butane torch lighter are all acceptable. There are YouTube videos on lighting technique. Most will tell you to toast the foot of the cigar (warm it up) then puff to draw the flame in. Toasting helps get the burn started off right. Technique aside, it really doesn't matter how you light it, just get it burning!

Welcome to the club, and enjoy!