Humidor Question

[TimM]

I was looking around at humidors online last night and noticed that in the descriptions of some it specifically said the price included a hygrometer and humidifier while other didn't mention these at all and some said that they included a bottle of "activator".   I really don't know anything about humidors per se but was under the impression that the whole point of them is to control the temperature and humidity level of the atmosphere where you store your cigars. If a humidor doesn't have a hygrometer or humidifying device of some sort in it then isn't basically just a pretty box? How is that helpful?  And what the heck is an "activator" in this context?   What should I be looking for when shopping for a small (50 or capacity) humidor? I don't smoke often and just want a place to properly store my cigars so they don't get all dried out etc. on me before I use them.   

Thanks for any insight.

Tim

[Steve H]

Storing your cigars is optimal and really the only thing you should be concerned about. I would make sure you get a hygrometer and humidification device. Whether that be beads or foam or other type of humidification.

Activator is often referred to as PG or Propylene Glycol. It is not necessary if you use distilled water.

I really like "heartfelt" beads for humidification as they last a long time and maintenance is low. Would be more than happy to talk to you about this and give you the low down on maintenance to maximize your cigar experience.

As far as temp and humidity, you will often hear 70/70. 70 percent humidity and 70 degrees. I like 65-67 percent humidity as it makes the cigar easier to smoke (not as wet). The temp, as long as it is below 70 will be good.

[TimM]

Storing your cigars is optimal and really the only thing you should be concerned about. I would make sure you get a hygrometer and humidification device. Whether that be beads or foam or other type of humidification.

So, are you confirming here that without a humidification device these are essentially just pretty boxes?

I really like "heartfelt" beads for humidification as they last a long time and maintenance is low. Would be more than happy to talk to you about this and give you the low down on maintenance to maximize your cigar experience.

Thanks Steve. I would like that.

[Steve H]

So, are you confirming here that without a humidification device these are essentially just pretty boxes?

Yes

Thanks Steve. I would like that.

We could meet and share a smoke a drink if you want. 

[TimM]

Let's do it!  I'm headed out of town for a couple of days in a bit but will be in touch about finding a time to get together.

[Glenn Hawkins]

I'm up for that!  Where and when.

[MikeA]

Yea me too.

[Steve H]

The place that makes the most sense is Liquid Smoke on the Square in M'boro. We could hook up after work one day or even a Friday before I make the trek back to Nashville unless someone has other suggestions.

[Glenn Hawkins]

I'm in.  However, unless I am off that day (mondays) or leave work early that day,   it would be 7pm before I would arrive.  Let me know what works for you guys and I will try to be there.

[MikeA]

Yea that's on my turf! I'll be there more then likely.

[TimM]

The place that makes the most sense is Liquid Smoke on the Square in M'boro. We could hook up after work one day or even a Friday before I make the trek back to Nashville unless someone has other suggestions.

That'd be a pretty good hike for me - about 100 mi rt - perhaps we could meet somewhere in between there and Nashville, or heck in Nashville or Franklin when you're making your trek back to Nashville? 

[Steve H]

The Cool Springs are has numerous smoke shops and that would be a good half way point.

[TimM]

That would definitely work for me.