The Distinct Appeal of the Torpedo, among the many cigar shapes that catch a smoker’s eye, few stand out like the torpedo. Defined by its pointed head and tapered body, this vitola isn’t just about looks.
It offers a unique combination of form, function, and flavor that has earned it a loyal following among cigar enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned cigar aficionado or simply looking to explore different cigar shapes, the torpedo presents an experience that is as refined as it is rewarding.
Torpedos often show up in premium cigar lines, not just for their shape but because they demand real craftsmanship, making them a popular choice when the moment calls for something exceptional.
In this guide, we’ll dive into what makes the torpedo shape special, how it compares to similar figurado cigar shapes like the pyramid and belicoso, and how to cut and enjoy it properly. If you’re curious about why torpedo cigars are often chosen for special occasions and high-end releases, you’re in the right place.
When it comes to enjoying cigars, the shape you choose can make all the difference in your smoking experience. Cigar shapes aren’t just about aesthetics; they play a crucial role in how a cigar draws, how its flavors develop, and how evenly it burns. For cigar enthusiasts and newcomers alike, understanding the variety of cigar shapes available is key to finding the perfect smoke.
The world of premium cigars is rich with different shapes, each offering its own unique characteristics. The classic Parejo, with its straight sides and rounded head, is a staple in many humidors. But for those seeking something more distinctive, Figurado shapes like torpedo cigars and pyramid cigars stand out. These shapes feature tapered heads or bodies, which can concentrate the cigar’s flavor and allow for a more customized draw.
Box-pressed cigars add another layer of complexity, with their squared-off edges and often more complex flavors. Whether you’re drawn to the bold silhouette of a torpedo, the dramatic taper of a pyramid, or the unique feel of a box-pressed cigar, exploring different shapes is a journey in craftsmanship and taste.
For cigar lovers, discovering how each shape influences the flavor, draw, and overall enjoyment of a cigar is part of what makes smoking premium cigars such a rewarding ritual.
The torpedo cigar is a type of figurado, a cigar with a non-standard shape. It features a straight body that tapers sharply to a sharper point at the head, distinguishing it from the more common parejos (straight-sided cigars with rounded heads).
Most torpedoes are around 6 to 6.5 inches in length with a ring gauge ranging from 50 to 54, though these can vary depending on the cigar brand. Within the broader range of cigar sizes, torpedoes are often considered a large cigar format, offering a substantial smoking experience compared to smaller vitolas.
The defining feature of the torpedo is its tapered head, which allows the smoker to modify the draw by how much of the head is cut off. This customization, along with the focused smoke channel, leads to a more concentrated delivery of flavor and aroma, resulting in more concentrated flavors that enhance the overall experience.
In other words, this shape isn’t just built to impress, it’s built to perform.. If you only smoke one shape all year, you might want to make it a torpedo.
The tapered head does more than give torpedo cigars thier signature silhouette; it’s functional. Because the head narrows to a point, the smoke is funneled through a smaller opening, which naturally intensifies the flavor.
That tapered head isn’t just for looks, it funnels the smoke, sharpening the flavor and dialing up the nuance in every puff. This concentrated smoke enhances the richness and depth of each puff, particularly during the early third.
It also gives you control. A shallow cut keeps the draw tight and the flavor focused, while a deeper cut opens things up and delivers a fuller, airier pull. This flexibility is why seasoned smokers often prefer torpedoes; it’s all about dialing in your ideal experience.
The whole point of the tapered head is to provide this level of control and to concentrate the cigar's flavor, making the shape essential for a unique and customizable smoking experience.
The torpedo’s shape isn’t just about a sharper silhouette; it actively shapes the cigar’s performance. Because of the tapered head and often slightly box-pressed body, torpedoes tend to provide a slower, cooler burn with excellent smoke concentration. That concentration allows for more complex flavors to emerge, especially in medium-to-full-bodied blends.
The shape also helps balance strength and smoothness. However, a cigar's strength is determined by the tobacco blend used, not simply by its size or shape. Even cigars with a higher nicotine content often feel more refined in torpedo form, as the narrowed passage cools the smoke slightly before it hits your palate.
Many smokers find that torpedoes deliver “cleaner” or more direct flavor notes, making them ideal for premium blends designed to showcase balance and subtle transitions, and these cigars are often smoked for their ability to highlight the blend’s complexity.
Most torpedoes fall between 6 and 6.5 inches in length, with ring gauges commonly ranging from 50 to 54 at the foot. However, you’ll find plenty of variation across brands and collections, some lean into longer formats, while others offer short, stout torpedoes like mini belicosos.
Some torpedo cigars are generally longer than robusto or toro sizes, while others are shorter and more similar to thin cigars. Compared to toro and robusto formats, torpedoes offer a unique tapered shape and a range of cigar sizes that appeal to different preferences.
The most recognizable version of the torpedo features a full-length taper, starting wide at the foot and narrowing consistently toward the head. Some modern takes include box-pressed torpedoes or hybrid shapes that blur the lines between pyramid and torpedo designs. Despite these variations, the core appeal remains the same: bold shape, precise flavor.
These three figurado vitolas are often grouped together because of their tapered heads, but each offers its own unique characteristics, construction, and smoking experience. Many smokers appreciate the tapered shape of torpedos, belicosos, and pyramids for the way it influences the draw and concentrates the flavor.
All three shapes require experienced rollers and are most often used in premium blends. Each delivers a different take on draw resistance and flavor intensity, but the torpedo stands out for its balance of bold design, flexibility, and consistent performance. Here’s how they stack up:
The torpedo features a straight body with a pointed, gradually tapered head. In many collections, the torpedo can be the one cigar that stands out for its unique shape and memorable smoking experience.
It’s known for giving smokers more control over their draw; the more you cut, the more airflow you get. This versatility makes it a favorite among those who enjoy fine-tuning the way a cigar smokes.
It’s bold, clean in shape, and often found in premium lines where both power and precision matter. The main challenge in crafting a torpedo is shaping its sharply tapered head, which requires skilled rollers to achieve the perfect form and finish.
Belicosos tend to be shorter than torpedoes and have a more rounded taper at the head. The shape is less dramatic, sometimes barely distinguishable from a standard parejo. This subtle taper changes the draw just enough to add character without requiring much adjustment or cutting technique.
It’s a solid middle ground for smokers who want a touch of taper without the sharper profile of a torpedo. Many smokers find belicosos to be more comfortable due to their less dramatic taper.
The pyramid tapers from the foot all the way to the head, offering a full-body taper that alters how the cigar burns and evolves over time. This shape often delivers a noticeable shift in flavor throughout the smoke, making it a great pick for those who enjoy complexity and progression in their cigars. When rolled well, pyramids can be some of the most dynamic smokes in any humidor.
Box-pressed cigars are a favorite for many, thanks to their distinctive square shape and the unique smoking experience they provide. Unlike traditional round cigars, box-pressed cigars are formed by placing them in a box and applying gentle pressure, which gives them their signature squared-off edges. This box press process can produce varying results. Some box-pressed cigars have very defined 90-degree corners, while other box-pressed cigars, like the Pledge from Ep Carrillo, have more rounded corners, while still being considered box-pressed.
One of the main advantages of box-pressed cigars is their ability to deliver a more even burn, which helps unlock the full range of complex flavors from the filler tobaccos. The compact shape can also make the cigar feel more comfortable in the hand and mouth, adding to the overall enjoyment. For premium cigars, the box-pressed format is often a mark of extra craftsmanship, as it requires careful attention to detail during both rolling and pressing.
When it comes to torpedo cigars in a box-pressed shape, the combination of a tapered head and square body offers a truly unique experience. Cutting torpedo cigars with a V-cutter is a popular choice, as it preserves the integrity of the tapered head while ensuring a good draw and optimal flavor delivery.
The result is a cigar that not only looks striking but also delivers rich, layered flavors and a satisfying, consistent smoke. For those who appreciate the artistry and science behind cigars, box-pressed torpedoes are a must-try, offering a blend of tradition, innovation, and unmistakable character.
One of the biggest perks of the torpedo shape is control. That tapered head isn’t just for show; it gives you the ability to dial in the draw exactly how you like it. Want something tight and slow-burning?
Easy. Do you prefer more airflow and a bigger flavor delivery? You’ve got options. Unlike standard parejos, the torpedo opens the door for a little personalization.
No matter what cut you choose, the key is precision. A sharp cutter and a steady hand make all the difference. When you’re smoking something as thoughtfully constructed as a torpedo, it’s worth doing it right. That said, not all cuts are created equal. Here's how each style stacks up:
The straight cut is the most common approach. It’s clean, reliable, and easy to execute. When cutting a torpedo, depth matters. A shallow cut will keep the draw tighter and the flavors more concentrated, while a deeper cut opens things up and allows more airflow.
The smart move is to start conservative; you can always cut a little more if the draw feels too restricted. Once you go too far, though, there’s no turning back.
The V-cut is gaining ground among torpedo fans for good reason. It lets you open up the draw without removing too much of the tapered cap, preserving the structure while still pulling in big flavor. The V shape also creates a clean channel for smoke, often enhancing complexity.
If you want a bold draw but a bit more finesse than a straight chop, this is your move.
Could you punch a torpedo? Technically. Should you? Not really.
The shape doesn’t lend itself well to this method, and you’re likely to crack the cap or restrict airflow. Save the punch for your robustos and parejos; torpedoes deserve better.
Rolling a torpedo takes some serious skill. The taper at the head requires precise bunching of the filler tobaccos to maintain an even draw, while still delivering the desired flavor progression. If the filler is packed too tightly, it can result in a plugged draw. Too loose, and the burn becomes erratic.
Because of this challenge, many cigar manufacturers reserve their torpedo production for their most experienced rollers. In fact, producing a consistently high-quality torpedo cigar is often viewed as a benchmark of a brand’s craftsmanship. In Cuba, torpedo and other figurado cigars have a long tradition, with some of the most iconic shapes originating there.
From the wrapper selection to the final press, everything has to be done with greater attention to detail, making torpedoes some of the most labor-intensive cigars on the market. Maduro wrappers are a popular pick for torpedoes, adding both visual punch and the deep, rich flavor that cigar lovers chase.
It’s also why torpedo cigars are commonly found in a brand’s premium lines. They represent a blend of aesthetic appeal, technical challenge, and refined smoking performance, often chosen for celebratory releases or special occasions.
If you’re ready to explore what a well-made torpedo can really do, there are a handful of cigars that consistently rise above the rest. These aren’t just good cigars shaped like torpedoes; they’re blends where the shape actually elevates the experience. Whether you want bold and spicy or smooth and refined, these torpedoes are handpicked for smokers who want to get the most out of every puff.
At After Action Cigars, we’re not here to hype things up just for the sake of it. These picks are proven standouts, the kind of cigars we’d hand a buddy after a job well done or light up to mark a moment worth remembering.
Known for its rich Nicaraguan ligero tobacco, this cigar offers bold flavors of coffee, spice, and dark chocolate with a smooth, slow burn. A full-bodied classic with a loyal following.
Blended with vintage Dominican filler and a rich Cameroon wrapper, this torpedo from Arturo Fuente balances depth and elegance, offering notes of cedar, nuts, and sweetness.
An iconic Dominican torpedo with a Connecticut shade wrapper. Mellow yet flavorful, with a creamy profile and smooth finish, this Montecristo is ideal for newer smokers or those who prefer a softer touch.
Box-pressed and luxurious, this Nicaraguan puro delivers earthy richness, cocoa, and spice in a perfectly constructed format. That makes this cigar a go-to for special occasions and monumental moments.
A boutique favorite, this torpedo delivers pepper, wood, and a bit of citrus zest. Crafted with precision and aimed at smokers who want bold yet balanced complexity, this Tatuaje classic is worth giving a go.
If you’re someone who values control, flavor precision, and craftsmanship in your cigars, the torpedo may be your ideal vitola. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy dialing in the perfect draw or savoring how a blend evolves through a tapered head.
Torpedoes are also perfect for smokers who enjoy special releases or limited-edition blends, since many brands choose the torpedo format for their most carefully crafted cigars. Whether you prefer full-bodied powerhouses or smoother, more nuanced profiles, there's a torpedo out there that can match your style.
That said, they’re not always the best choice for beginners. The draw can be slightly more resistant, and they require a steady hand and patient pacing to fully appreciate. But if you’re ready to graduate from the basics, few shapes offer as much reward for the effort.
The torpedo cigar is more than just a striking shape; it’s a symbol of refinement, craftsmanship, and intention. From the carefully tapered head to the full-bodied flavor it delivers, this vitola has earned its place in the humidors of serious cigar lovers. Its roots in tradition, combined with its ongoing use in modern premium blends, make the torpedo a shape that bridges generations of cigar making.
Whether you’re lighting one up for a celebration or simply savoring a quiet evening smoke, a torpedo offers an experience that’s as memorable as it is satisfying.
At After Action Cigars, we believe the torpedo isn’t just a cigar shape, it’s a nod to craftsmanship, control, and taking the time to enjoy what you’ve earned
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