Belicoso vs. Torpedo vs. Pyramid Cigars – A Point of Distinction
When it comes to cigars, shape matters just as much as blend and size. While many aficionados are familiar with the classic straight-sided Parejos, there’s a world of pointed cigars that offer a unique smoking experience. Among these, three shapes stand out: the Belicoso, the Torpedo, and the Pyramid. These tapered beauties aren’t just about aesthetics; their distinctive shapes can significantly influence your smoking experience, from the way you cut and light them to how the flavors develop as you smoke. Each shape has its own character, history, and loyal following among cigar enthusiasts.
Let’s explore the individual characteristics, compare the smoking experiences, and help you understand which of these shapes might be the perfect choice for your next smoke. Join Hiland’s Cigars as we unravel the subtle yet significant distinctions between these three popular pointed cigar shapes.
The Belicoso
Definition and characteristics: The Belicoso is a short, tapered cigar with a rounded head. Typically ranging from 5 to 6.5 inches in length, it features a gradual taper that starts about an inch from the head. This shape is often considered a hybrid between a traditional Parejo and a Torpedo, offering a unique balance of elegance and practicality.
Origin of the Name: The term “Belicoso” comes from the Spanish word “belicoso,” meaning “warlike” or “aggressive.” This name likely stems from the cigar’s slightly pointed shape, reminiscent of a bullet or projectile. Despite its fierce-sounding name, the Belicoso offers a refined smoking experience that’s anything but aggressive. Keep in mind that belicoso shaped cigars can sometimes be referred to as “belis” or a “beli”.
Smoking experience and draw: Belicoso cigars are known for their excellent draw and even burn. The tapered head concentrates the smoke, potentially intensifying flavors and aromas. This shape allows for a more focused stream of smoke to hit your palate, which can enhance the complexity of the cigar’s flavor profile. The gradual taper also makes it easier to cut and light compared to its sharper-pointed cousins.
Each of these cigars below showcases the unique characteristics of the Belicoso shape while offering distinct flavor profiles and smoking experiences. Whether you’re new to pointed cigars or a long-time aficionado, these Belicosos are sure to provide a memorable smoke.
Popular Belicoso Cigars:
AJ Fernandez New World Connecticut Belicoso (6×54 / Box of 20)
Liga Privada Undercrown Shade Belicoso (6×52 / Box of 25)
My Father Belicoso Collection Sampler (5.5×54 / Box of 6) + Free Shipping!
Diamond Crown Maximus Double Belicoso #10 (6.75×54 / Box of 20)
Arturo Fuente Sungrown Cuban Belicoso (5.75×52 / Box of 24) + Free Shipping!
Oliva Serie V Belicoso (5×54 / Box of 24) + Free Shipping
The Torpedo
Definition and characteristics: The Torpedo is a cigar shape characterized by its long, sharply pointed head and straight sides. Typically ranging from 6 to 7 inches in length, Torpedoes feature a more dramatic taper than Belicosos, usually starting about halfway down the cigar’s length. This distinctive shape offers a bold, eye-catching appearance that many cigar enthusiasts find appealing.
Origin of the Name: It’s kind of obvious. It looks just like a torpedo!
How it differs from Belicoso: While both Torpedoes and Belicosos feature tapered heads, there are key differences:
- Length of taper: Torpedoes have a longer, more gradual taper.
- Sharpness of point: Torpedoes have a sharper, more defined point.
- Overall length: Torpedoes are generally longer than Belicosos.
- Body shape: Torpedoes maintain straight sides, while Belicosos may have a slight bulge.
Smoking experience and draw: Torpedo Cigars offer a unique smoking experience. The long, tapered head allows for precise control over the draw, as you can cut more or less of the cap to adjust airflow. This shape concentrates flavors even more than a Belicoso, potentially leading to a more intense taste experience. However, the sharper point can be trickier to cut properly, requiring a bit more skill from the smoker.
Popular Torpedo Cigars: At Hiland’s Cigars, we’re proud to offer an excellent selection of Torpedo cigars. Some popular choices include:
Great Deals on Torpedo Cigars:
AJ Fernandez San Lotano The Bull Torpedo (6.5×52 / Box of 20) + Free Shipping!
Oliva Master Blends 3 Torpedo (6×52 / Box of 20)
Oliva Serie V Melanio Torpedo (6.5×52 / Box of 10) + Free Shipping!
My Father Le Bijou 1922 Torpedo Box-Pressed (6.13×52 / Box of 23) + Free Shipping!
Rocky Patel Decade Cameroon Torpedo (6.25×52 / Box of 20)
The Pyramid
Definition and characteristics: The Pyramid is a distinctive cigar shape characterized by its gradually tapering body from foot to head. Unlike the Belicoso or Torpedo, which maintain a consistent ring gauge for most of their length, the Pyramid’s entire body narrows as it approaches the head. Typically ranging from 6 to 7 inches in length, Pyramids offer a unique visual appeal and smoking experience.
Origin of Name: Well, as the characteristics outlines, it gradually increases in size towards the base – just like a pyramid.
Unique features compared to Belicoso and Torpedo: Pyramid Cigars stand out from their pointed counterparts in several ways:
- Full-body taper: Unlike Belicosos and Torpedoes, Pyramids taper along their entire length.
- Changing ring gauge: The ring gauge decreases from foot to head, affecting the smoking experience.
- Foot size: Pyramids often have a wider foot than Belicosos or Torpedoes.
- Visual distinction: The gradual taper gives Pyramids a more dramatic, elegant appearance.
Smoking experience and draw: Smoking a Pyramid offers a dynamic experience as the ring gauge changes throughout the smoke. This can lead to evolving flavors and intensities as you progress. The wider foot allows for a cooler initial draw, while the tapering body concentrates flavors towards the head. This shape can offer excellent draw control, but may require some practice to master. The changing ring gauge can also affect burn rate, potentially requiring more frequent touch-ups.
Popular Pyramid Cigars: At Hiland’s Cigars, we’re pleased to offer a selection of fine Pyramid cigars. Some popular choices include:
Choosing the Right Shape for You:
Personal preference factors: Selecting between Belicoso, Torpedo, and Pyramid shapes often comes down to personal preference. Consider these factors:
- Comfort: Some smokers find the feel of a particular shape more comfortable in their hand or mouth.
- Smoking time: Pyramids and Torpedoes tend to be longer, offering a longer smoke if that’s what you prefer.
- Aesthetics: Don’t underestimate the pleasure of smoking a cigar shape you find visually appealing.
Occasion and setting considerations: The setting and occasion can influence your choice of cigar shape:
- Formal events: The elegant look of a Pyramid or Torpedo can be perfect for weddings or galas.
- Casual gatherings: A Belicoso might be ideal for a relaxed evening with friends.
- Time constraints: If you’re short on time, a Belicoso’s typically shorter length might be preferable.
Flavor profile preferences: The shape of a cigar can influence its flavor profile:
- Intensity seekers: If you enjoy a more concentrated flavor, especially towards the end of the smoke, a Torpedo or Pyramid might be your best bet.
- Consistency lovers: For those who prefer a more consistent flavor throughout, a Belicoso could be the way to go.
- Evolution enthusiasts: If you enjoy experiencing how a cigar’s flavors develop over time, a Pyramid’s changing ring gauge offers an intriguing journey.
- Strength preferences: Remember that the shape can intensify flavors, so a full-bodied blend in a Torpedo or Pyramid shape might pack an extra punch.
At Hiland’s Cigars, we encourage you to experiment with different shapes to find what suits you best. Our knowledgeable staff is always ready to offer recommendations based on your preferences and smoking style. Remember, the best cigar shape is ultimately the one that brings you the most enjoyment and satisfaction.
Pro Tips for Smoking Pointed Cigars:
A. Proper cutting techniques Cutting pointed cigars requires a bit more finesse than straight-headed cigars:
- Belicoso: Cut about 1/16 to 1/8 inch from the tip, or where the cap begins to curve.
- Torpedo: Start with a shallow cut, about 1/8 inch from the tip. You can always cut more if the draw is too tight.
- Pyramid: Similar to the Torpedo, start shallow and adjust as needed.
- Use a sharp cutter: A clean, sharp cut is crucial for these shapes to prevent unraveling.
- Consider a V-cutter: This can work well for Belicosos and some Torpedoes, creating a neat wedge that concentrates the smoke.
B. Lighting methods Properly lighting a pointed cigar ensures an even burn:
- Toast the foot: Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle and slowly rotate it while applying heat to the entire foot.
- Use a torch lighter: The precision of a torch lighter can be particularly helpful for these shapes.
- Avoid over-charring: The pointed end can be delicate, so be careful not to apply too much heat directly to the tip.
- Consider methods of matches over lighters if you prefer and check out lighting a cigar in 5 easy steps.
C. Pacing and draw control Mastering the smoke of a pointed cigar enhances the experience:
- Start slow: These cigars often start with a cooler smoke due to the wider foot. Take gentle puffs to warm up the cigar.
- Adjust your pacing: As you smoke towards the tapered end, you may need to slow down to prevent overheating.
- Mind your draw: The concentrated smoke in pointed cigars can be intense. Take slower, gentler draws if needed.
- Rotate the cigar: This is especially important for Pyramids to ensure an even burn as the ring gauge changes.
- Retrohale carefully: The concentrated smoke can make retrohaling more intense, so proceed with caution if you’re new to this technique.
We believe that mastering these techniques can significantly enhance your enjoyment of pointed cigars. Remember, practice makes perfect, and each cigar is an opportunity to refine your skills. Don’t hesitate to ask our experienced staff at Hiland’s for additional tips or advice on enjoying these unique and rewarding cigar shapes.
Conclusion
Recap of key differences: As we’ve explored, Belicoso, Torpedo, and Pyramid cigars each offer a unique smoking experience:
- Belicosos, with their shorter, more rounded taper, provide a balanced blend of flavor concentration and ease of use.
- Torpedoes, featuring a longer, sharper taper, offer intense flavor concentration and a striking appearance.
- Pyramids, with their full-length taper, deliver a dynamic smoking experience as the ring gauge changes throughout the cigar.
Each shape has its own characteristics in terms of draw, flavor intensity, and burning properties, making them distinct choices for different preferences and occasions.
At Hiland’s Cigars, we encourage our customers to explore the world of pointed cigars. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try a shape you haven’t experienced before. You might discover a new favorite or gain a deeper appreciation for the nuances of cigar craftsmanship. Remember, the journey of cigar appreciation is as much about exploration as it is about finding your perfect smoke. Keep in mind that we carry a huge selection of cigar brands, discount prices every day on premium cigars, and the best customer service in the tobacco world! Give us a call and we’ll be happy to walk you through some great options in the belicoso, torpedo, or pyramid shapes.
The Big Torpedo, Belicoso, and Pyramid FAQ:
What is the difference between a torpedo and a belicoso? Torpedoes have a longer, sharper taper that starts about halfway down the cigar. Belicosos have a shorter, more rounded taper that typically begins about an inch from the head.
What does Belicoso mean for cigars? “Belicoso” comes from the Spanish word meaning “warlike” or “aggressive.” In cigars, it refers to a short, tapered shape with a rounded head, likely named for its slight resemblance to a bullet.
Are torpedo cigars better? “Better” is subjective in cigars. Torpedoes offer a more concentrated flavor due to their sharp taper, but they can be trickier to cut sometimes. Some smokers prefer them, while others favor different shapes.
What is the difference between a torpedo and a pyramid cigar? Torpedoes have straight sides with a taper only at the head. Pyramids taper along their entire length, gradually decreasing in ring gauge from foot to head.
Why smoke a torpedo cigar? Torpedo cigars offer concentrated flavors, a striking appearance, and the ability to control the draw by adjusting where you cut. They’re popular among experienced smokers who enjoy a more intense flavor profile.
What size is a pyramid cigar? Pyramid cigars typically range from 6 to 7 inches in length. The ring gauge varies along the length, usually starting around 52-54 at the foot and tapering to about 40 at the head.
What is the difference between belicoso and figurado? Belicoso is a specific type of figurado. “Figurado” is a broad term for any non-parallel sided cigar, including belicosos, torpedoes, pyramids, and more uniquely shaped cigars. Click here to learn all about figurado cigars.
What does a belicoso cigar look like? A belicoso cigar has a short, rounded taper at the head, typically starting about an inch from the tip. The body is usually similar to a robusto or toro, with the tapered head being the distinguishing feature.
Which end do you cut on a torpedo cigar? You cut the pointed (head) end of a torpedo cigar. Start with a shallow cut about 1/8 inch from the tip, and cut more if needed for a better draw.
How do you properly light a pointed cigar? Toast the foot evenly, holding the cigar at a 45-degree angle. Use a torch lighter for precision, and take your time to ensure an even light across the entire foot.
Are pointed cigars harder to smoke? They can require a bit more technique, especially in cutting and lighting. However, many smokers find the concentrated flavors and unique smoking experience worth the extra effort. Really, they’re not harder to smoke at all if you’re open to trying new things.
Can I use a punch cut on a pointed cigar? It’s generally not recommended. A straight or V-cut is usually more suitable for pointed cigars to maintain the integrity of the cap and ensure a good draw.