When choosing cigar ashtrays for yourself, or for a gift for a cigar smoker in your life, there are some important things to keep in mind. Having a good selection and assortment of ashtrays for cigarettes is one thing, but those specially designed for cigars are a great gift option for yourself or that special someone.
The key factor to keep in mind with cigar ashtrays is the larger size. This is important as the pivot or central point of balance down the cigar is significantly different than on a cigarillo or cigarette. Having the right size of bowl to the ashtray is going to be a central consideration.
Practical Considerations
Anyone who has smoked a full sized cigar understands that there is a large amount of ash produced in the process. While the best cigars will burn evenly and produce a compact type of ash, that doesn’t mean that it is a small amount. Ideally look for cigar ashtrays with a large central bowl to contain at least the ash from a few cigars, which is perfect if you are enjoying your smoke with friends.
The other practical considerations are the rests around the edges of the bowl. They should be deep and clearly defined, allowing you to place even a large gauge cigar easily in a secure position. Slight indentations for cigars create the risk of the cigars moving if a table is bumped, which can lead to safety concerns. The deeper depressions for the cigars keep them securely in place even with slight movement.
Materials
While enjoying a cigar may be a great way to relax, unwind, and enjoy, no one likes to take on the job of cleaning cigar ashtrays. To help speed up the process look for glass, ceramic or metal bowls that can be easily wiped out with a dry cloth or even run through the dishwasher for quick and easy cleaning.
Metal is another option to consider, and with the different styles it can match perfectly with a traditional smoking room or bar décor to a very modern and stylized look. Generally most people avoid plastics unless they are specifically designed for cigars, as they can be difficult to clean and they always have the risk of melting if the cigar is left unattended for more than a few minutes.
Ideally, your choice of cigar ashtrays is really a personal decision. Having a variety of different options to choose from is always important, and allows you to choose the right ashtray for the occasion.