What's going on with this cigar? it pops

jliu

So I'm having this cigar and at various points, it pops and crackles... I checked it prelight and no signs of beetles or anything. I mean, the foot of the cigar didn't have that nice accordian fold (it was a bit jumbled...). I did notice a lump right beneath the triple cap. Any feedback? Doesn't alter the taste though (which is all I really care about).

taythegibs

ive had the crackling on several cigars, dont know what causes it but have never found any negative side effects of the crackling.

letsgowithbob

It's beetles, and the lump in the cap was one trying to wiggle it's way out....

jliu

bigfnsteve

Dude are you smoking a clove?!

Smokindaddy

bigfnsteve:

Dude are you smoking a clove?!

More like a rice crispy treat

kuzi16

there are rumors that it is beetle eggs. however, i cannot confirm nor deny. the other "real" theory is that tobacco leaves are a natural product grown and fermented in natural ways. there is a decent amount of moisture variation and throughout, especially the stems, and there are natural air pockets within the stems and leaves as well. this is probably what is causing the popping. its very much like wood in a fire just at a very small scale.

JZerby

Smokindaddy

kuzi16:

there are rumors that it is beetle eggs. however, i cannot confirm nor deny. the other "real" theory is that tobacco leaves are a natural product grown and fermented in natural ways. there is a decent amount of moisture variation and throughout, especially the stems, and there are natural air pockets within the stems and leaves as well. this is probably what is causing the popping. its very much like wood in a fire just at a very small scale.

This makes total sense.

fla-gypsy

Kuzi always makes sense but we love being ignorant sometimes too and just making this stuff up as we go. LOL

0patience

jliu

Rob1110

I would also bet that older, oily cigars might do that if you hit an oil pocket once there's a bit of plume built up.