Knowing whether to choose a Corona or Toro stogie usually means exploring the interesting world of cigar sizes and dimensions. There are actual names that go with particular dimensions. The reality is that the dimensions and ring gauge are the most important factors that should be considered when figuring out which of those would be the best for the aficionado.

Common dimensions are generally defined as follows:

- The Corona is generally about 5.5 inches to 6 inches long and has a ring gauge of between 42 and 45.

- The Panatela is generally about 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches long and has a ring gauge of between 34 and 38.

- The Lonsdale is generally about 6 inches to 6.5 inches long and has a ring gauge of between 42 and 44.

- The Churchill is generally about 6.5 inches to 7 inches long and has a ring gauge of between 46 and 48.

- The Robusto is generally about 4.5 inches to 5 inches long and has a ring gauge of between 48 and 50.

- The Toro is generally about 6 inches to 6.5 inches long and has a ring gauge of between 48 and 50.

- The Presidente is generally about 7 inches to 8.5 inches long and has a ring gauge of between 52 and 60.

- The Torpedo with its cone shaped head is generally about 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches long and has a ring gauge of between 46 and 52.

Cigar sizes are also defined by the shape. Because names of stogies often come down to the popular name, many people never hear the names of the two most common shapes. The parejo is the name for the common cylinder shapes most often experienced with stogies. For an irregular shape, people will often hear the term figurado. The term that encompasses both the shapes and cigar sizes is referred to as the vitola.

Some of the more uncommon dimensions are defined as follows:

- The Belicoso is generally about 6 inches long and has a ring gauge of about 48.

- The Pyramid is generally about 6 inches to 7 inches long and has a ring gauge of between 42 and 52.

- The Culebra is an interesting experience with three, 5 to 6 inch stogies intertwined with a ring gauge of only about 34. To smoke the Culebra, the stogies must be untangled and enjoyed separately. However, a very good humidor is necessary to avoid any breakage.

Why be concerned with cigar sizes?

It all comes down to burning time. The thicker and longer the stogie, the longer the burning time, and vice versa. For example, a good after dinner stogie may be a Robusto because it can last between 25 and 40 minutes. However, people will experiment with a variety of dimensions to find the perfect one for their time allotment.

Choosing between all of those cigar sizes may seem overwhelming. Most smokers find a favorite that is right for the occasion. Sometimes something bigger is needed, like for a golf game or bachelor party. While other times, enjoying a quick smoke during ones drive home after a long day is their idea of unwinding. Either way, there is sure to be a stick that is perfect for any time and any event.