What Is a Stub/Nub (Short Robusto) Cigar?

The Stub/Nub, often referred to as a Short Robusto or compact gordo, is a vitola defined by its radical proportions: a stubby length of 4 to 4.5 inches paired with an exceptionally thick ring gauge of 54 to 60. This shape sacrifices length for sheer diameter, creating a short, chunky cigar that burns slowly due to its fat cross-section. A typical 4 x 60 Stub delivers a smoke time of 30–45 minutes—longer than its short length would suggest—because the dense, wide body requires more time to draw heat through the core. Flavor delivery is intense and concentrated: with less wrapper-to-filler ratio than a Corona, the large ring gauge generates a cool, voluminous smoke that showcases the blend’s strength and body, often amplifying notes of earth, spice, and leather. The stub format is prized by aficionados who want full flavor in a short session, as well as by those in climates with limited smoking time—commuters, outdoor workers, or anyone seeking a quick yet powerful escape. Because all that thick tobacco can be overwhelming if the blend isn’t balanced, experienced smokers typically reach for Stubs, though novices may appreciate the short duration if they choose a milder wrapper.

Stub/Nub (Short Robusto) Cigars in AshMap (1)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Stub/Nub (Short Robusto) cigar?

A Stub/Nub is a short, extremely thick cigar—typically 4–4.5 inches long with a ring gauge of 54–60. It’s also called a Short Robusto or compact gordo. The shape was popularized by the Nub brand (which uses a 4 x 60 format) and focuses maximum blend intensity into a shortened smoking session. Unlike traditional parejos, the stub’s fat diameter creates a slow, cool burn that concentrates the wrapper and filler flavors.

How long does a Stub/Nub (Short Robusto) cigar take to smoke?

Despite its short length, a Stub/Nub smokes for 30 to 45 minutes. The thick ring gauge (often 60) means the interior filler tobacco takes longer to ignite and burn through, so you get a session nearly as long as a standard Robusto but in a much more compact cigar.

What ring gauge is a Stub/Nub (Short Robusto)?

The Stub/Nub typically falls between 54 and 60 ring gauge. The most iconic size is 4 x 60 (as used by the Nub line). A ring gauge of 58 or 60 is most common, though some blends may offer 54–56. Anything below 50 ring gauge would not be considered a true stub.

What are the best Stub/Nub (Short Robusto) cigars?

The benchmark is the Nub Habano 460, which defined the vitola. Other excellent examples include the Nub Cameroon 460, Nub Connecticut 460, and the Oliva Cain F Stub (a 4.5 x 60 full-bodied powerhouse). Some boutique blenders also release limited Short Robusto editions in 4.25 x 58 or 4 x 54 formats—look for fuller-bodied blends that can handle the thick ring gauge without becoming flat.

Is a Stub/Nub (Short Robusto) good for beginners?

It can be, but with caution. The short smoke time (30–40 minutes) is beginner-friendly, but the very thick ring gauge delivers a massive volume of smoke and intense flavor that may overwhelm a new smoker. A beginner would be better served starting with a Connecticut-wrapper Stub (e.g., Nub Connecticut) or a smaller ring gauge, then graduating to the stub format once they’re comfortable with medium-to-full body.