How to Light a Cigar with Matches: A Traditional Touch Using Strike-on-Box Matches Sandpaper

June 5, 2025

By Fz Match

There’s something undeniably classic about lighting a cigar with real matches.  It brings a sense of ritual, patience, and craftsmanship that modern lighters often skip over.  But if you’re going the traditional route, knowing how to light a cigar with matches — especially those with strike-on-box matches sandpaper — can make all the difference in flavor and experience.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the proper way to light a cigar using safety matches, and explain why the sandpaper-like striker strip on matchboxes is more important than it looks.

Why Use Real Matches for Lighting a Cigar?

While butane lighters are convenient and wind-resistant, many seasoned smokers prefer using matches because:

They burn cooler than butane flames, reducing the risk of overheating your cigar.

They offer a slower, more controlled lighting process — ideal for savoring the moment.

They add a nostalgic or ceremonial feel, especially when enjoying premium cigars.

And let’s not forget — there's something satisfying about striking a match on the sandpaper-like striker strip of a matchbox and watching it catch flame.

Tip: Always use wooden matches, not paper ones.  Paper matchbooks tend to burn too quickly and can affect the taste.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Light a Cigar with Matches

Lighting a cigar properly takes a bit more care than lighting a cigarette.  Here’s how to do it right:

Cut the Cigar: Use a sharp cutter to open the head of the cigar.  This allows for smooth airflow and even lighting.

Toast the Foot: Hold the lit match near the end of the cigar (the foot), and slowly rotate it to evenly toast the surface.  Don’t rush — take your time.

Draw and Light: Once the foot is glowing slightly, bring the cigar to your lips and gently draw in while continuing to apply the flame.  You should see it begin to burn evenly.

Put Out the Match Properly: Never blow out the match — gently press it against the striker strip or ashtray to extinguish it.  Blowing can send sulfur into the cigar’s tip and alter the flavor.

The Role of Strike-on-Box Matches Sandpaper

That rough strip on the side of your matchbox isn’t just decoration — it’s coated with a special chemical mix (usually red phosphorus) that reacts with the match head to create ignition.  This sandpaper-like surface ensures:

Consistent friction for reliable lighting

Safety by preventing accidental sparks

Compatibility with modern safety match formulas

It’s also worth noting that not all surfaces work well for lighting matches.  While some people try using concrete, zippers, or even their shoe soles, these methods can damage the match or fail to ignite it.  The strike-on-box matches sandpaper is still your best bet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cigar lovers sometimes get it wrong.  Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

Rushing the lighting process

Using old or worn-out matches

Blowing out the match directly onto the cigar

Holding the flame too close for too long

Taking your time and treating the process with respect will enhance both the aroma and flavor of your cigar.

Conclusion

Knowing how to light a cigar with matches is more than just a skill — it’s a small but meaningful part of the overall smoking experience.  And thanks to the strike-on-box matches sandpaper, lighting a cigar the traditional way is both safe and satisfying.

So next time you reach for a match, remember: it’s not just a tool.  It’s a bridge between past and present, between fire and flavor — and maybe even the start of something unforgettable.