How to Choose a Cigar-Cutting Method

Part of becoming an expert cigar connoisseur is choosing which method you prefer to use to cut your cigars. To put it simply, how you cut your cigars influences how they will smoke and taste. New cigar smokers should try out various cigar cutters until they find one they like.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. There are four main types of cigar cutters that are popular. They include the guillotine cigar cutter, the cigar punch, the “V” cigar cutter and the scissor cigar cutter. Which you prefer will be a matter of personal choice. However, no matter which type you prefer, the most important thing about cigar cutters is their sharpness. You can spend a lot of money on an expensive cigar cutter, but it will be useless if the blade is not kept clean and sharp.
2. One of the more popular types of cigar cutters is the guillotine cigar cutter. It works by completely cutting across the cigar’s cap line. It may take some practice to become adept at using this cigar cutter. Most people purchase double-bladed cutters and cut their cigars at 90-degree angles.
3. TThe cigar punch is a cigar cutter that requires no practice to operate. The cigar punch will cut a small, clean hole in the tip or head of the cigar. If you would like a larger hole, simply punch the cigar a few times until you get the desired width.
4. The “V” cigar cutter is becoming very popular. It works by cutting a wedge or a “V” into the cigar’s cap. It is important that this cigar cutter is kept in tip-top shape because it can become dull very easy. The “V” cigar cutter works well on small ring cigars and it gives the smoker more surface area.
5. The scissor cigar cutter is one of the more sophisticated types of cigar cutters on the market. They are small and they work by simply cutting off the cap, much like a blade cutter. However, learning how to deftly use scissors on your cigars can be a challenge. But, if you master the art, you can impress your peers with it.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are a new cigar smoker, you may want to invest in some cheap cigars to practice your cutting techniques. Newbie cigar smokers should not practice on expensive cigars unless they have money to burn. With a bit of practice and patience you will find the cigar cutter of your choice.
• If you want to revert back to the old-school way of cigar smoking, you can just bite off the tip. While this may garner you a few lifted eyebrows from the ladies, it is generally not advised. You will probably end up ruining a good cigar. If you bite off too much, your cigar will burn too hot and too fast. If you bite off too little, your cigar will go out frequently and be harder to smoke.