Tell Me About Cigar Tubes

Joined
Sep 15, 1999
Messages
3,319
I recently aquired a Zeiss Miniquick monocular. It measures a scant 4.5 inches long with a diameter of a shade over 1/2 inch.

I thought that a plastic or aluminum cigar tube might make the perfect semi-protective case for carry in a cargo pocket.

As I don't smoke, I know nothing about cigars or cigar tubes. I would think, though, that cigars come in various sizes. If so, I would assume that cigar tubes come in various sizes as well.

I think I'd prefer plastic over aluminum. I think I'd prefer a slide-together closer rather than a threaded cap.

Anyone know what might be available with an inside diameter of about 3/4 inch and slighlty longer than 4.5 inches? And how much is the included cigar going to cost me? I'd hate to pay much more than $5 for a small plastic tube.

What's out there-- and how much?

Scott
 
Your monocular is going to smell funny.

I keep my miniQuick in a knife sheath along with a LensPen. It sits nicely in a shirt pocket and if it falls, the sheath cushions the very lightweight contents.
 
But I don't have shirt pockets. At least not lately. In the Summer it's a t-shirt (sans pocket.) In the Winter it's a fleece pullover or sweater.

So the Miniquick has been going in a cargo pocket where it's more subject to bumps and knocks than it would be if it were in a chest pocket. I want something to add a tiny bit of protection.

I'm certain I could get the cigar smell out of an aluminum tube. Plastic does absorb odors, though. Perhaps some Clorox or baking soda along with time might suffice.

So what's available within my size requirements?

Scott
 
You can get some light weight tubing with caps for a buck or two. I am sure you could try a good cigar / smoke shop to see what they could suggest too.
 
I've thought about the PVC idea already-- and may still give it a try. It seems, though, that even the thinnest PVC tubing would weigh significantly more than a cigar tube.

I'm sure I'll end up spending some time in a smoke shop, however it may be awhile before I'm able to do so. I live in the boonies. I've got quite a drive just to get to a grocery store. Hence, my original post.
 
The expensive cigars usually come in glass or aluminum, I believe you should be able to find an inexpensive made in Tampa machine made cigar in a plastic tube of appropiate size for under $1 U.S., they usually come in five packs though.

1/2 inch is a 32 ring size in a cigar, 3/4 inch would be a 48 (it´s measured in 1/64ths), so you may look for something about 4.5 X 40 or so, that would probably be like a small Corona, which is a common size for Tampa made cigars, a plastic tube should be easy to cut and you may want to get something longer to be sure.

There are single cigar cases made, usually metal or leather, you may be able to find one that will work for you, though they tend to be expensive.
 
Scott,Garcia-Vega English Coronas should be the size plastic tube you want.They're available in gas stations,grocery stores,etc. approx $3.69 plus sales tax for a four pack.The tubes are tan in color.I hope this helps.tom.
 
Scott, if you rigged it for neck carry it might ride more securely than in a cargo packet. It could stay "inside" until you need it. Just a thought.
 
Originally posted by Thomas Linton
Scott, if you rigged it for neck carry it might ride more securely than in a cargo packet.

That's a great idea --except that I'm just not a neck-carry guy. I've had 4 or so different neck knives because I REALLY think they're a neat idea and I REALLY want to like them. I get a
new knife, wear it for a few weeks, and then go back to pocket carry. I just don't like the feeling of the cord on my neck or the knife against my chest.

BUT-- I'm still going to try your idea because it would be a great way to carry the Miniquick OUTSIDE my shirt or jacket when I'm in the woods or other time I'd be using it regularly. (It looks like I'm going to end up with five cigar tubes anyway. I may as well use them for something. I'll definitely be trying this.

Thanks!

Scott
 
FYI - It won't fit in the plastic English Corona tube. I just tried it. (at least not with the pocket clip attached). I do carry mine in an aluminum cigar tube though.
 
Originally posted by craigz
Why not just pony up the ten dollars for the leather case from Zeiss?

I have other binoculars and monoculars. The reason I love the Zeiss is becuase its compact and weighs less than an ounce. I don't want to compromise that. A leather case would surely weigh more than a plastic or aluminum tube. The cigar tube would also be mostly waterproof. A leather case would not.
--And then there's the cost. $10 + shipping vs. $3-5 for a cigar tube.

Scott
 
Back
Top