Cigar Sizes
Cigar sizes have different names and their shapes vary as well. Here are some of the more common types you will find. The dimensions below are approximates; some cigars may be wider than the figures below.
Common Sizes in Inches
The corona is 5 1/2 to 6 long; the panatela cigars are 5 1/2 to 6 1/2 while the lonsdale is 6 to 6 1/2. Churchill cigars are 6 1/2 to 7 while the robusto is 4 1/2 to 5 inches. Toro cigars are 6 to 6 1/2; presidente cigars are 7 to 8 1/2 inches and the torpedo is 5 1/2 to 6 1/2.
Variations
The arrangement seems simple but it is actually complex. Some brands may assign their own names on specific cigar types. Terms like panatela and corona are used to express cigar sizes’ length. However, this is not always the case. Most manufacturers use widely accepted names to denote sizes.
But the cigar dimensions may vary among brands. Other factors can add to the confusion. More sizes and specifications are now available. Manufacturers are now making their own names to express size. Companies that use the same cigar names may not be the same length. Cigar maker A and B may both have churchill cigars, but their lengths differ.
Numbers vs. Names
To prevent confusion, it has become common to refer to cigar widths and lengths instead. Inch is the standard measurement used for cigar lengths. Cigar widths are measured via ring gauge. This is the cigar diameter in 64th of an inch. But many people still refer to cigars by name because it has been used for so long.
Cigar Shapes
The majority of cigars are shaped like a cylinder. There are exceptions like the torpedo; its head is cone shaped. The most common is the parejo or corona. The body is cylindrical with one of its ends open. Parejo cigars have straight sides. The pyramid cigar has a wide foot but narrows at the cap.
The perfecto bulges in the center and narrows at both ends. The diadema cigar is similar to a parejo. But it is classified as another shape due to its large size. Some shapes are similar to a perfecto.
Other cigar sizes and shapes abound. The most common shape in Italy is the tuscan. It is tough, long and slim in the middle. The ends are tapered. It is known for its aroma. Culebras consists of three braided cigars.
