How to Cut a Cigar

To the uninitiated, the cigar world is filled with odd rituals. From picking a cigar to lighting it, everything has a certain methodology. I must admit that there is some truth to this. However, these rituals and processes result from a cigar culture dating back to 2500 BC. Over the years, people have found the best way to enjoy their cigars. Much like you have the best way to prepare a steak, cigar lovers have a process to enjoy their cigars. While there are many things we can touch on, today we will start from the beginning and teach you how to cut a cigar.

Let’s Look at How to Cut Your Great Cigar

Cutting a cigar correctly plays a crucial role in ensuring an enjoyable smoking experience. A poor cut can ruin the draw, cause the wrapper to unravel, or even make the cigar unsmokable. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a beginner, mastering the art of cutting a cigar enhances your enjoyment. If you’re new to cigars, feel free to ask for guidance; cigar smokers are always eager to help newcomers learn the ropes.

To get started, let’s delve into some anatomy. A cigar consists of several parts, but we’ll focus on the outside for cutting purposes. First, we have the cap, the rounded end of the closed cigar that you must cut before smoking. Most cigars feature a rounded cap, though some, like torpedos, may have a more tapered shape.

Next, you encounter the shoulder, the slightly curved or rounded area where the cap meets the body of the cigar. It’s vital to cut above or at this point to prevent the unraveling of the cigar. Moving down, you find the head, which is the end of the cigar you put in your mouth, opposite the foot. Lastly, we have the foot of the cigar. This is the open end of the cigar that is lit.

We Only Want to Cut Enough to Get a Good Draw

The goal of cutting a cigar is to remove just enough of the cap to allow for a smooth draw without damaging the cigar’s structure. To accomplish this, we use a selection of cutting devices. Each has its own merits, and many will have a favorite. In actuality, some cutters work better than others on certain cigars. Let’s take a look at four of the most common.

Our first cutter is the most common: the guillotine. This cutter can be a single or double blade. The cigar is inserted into the opening, and with a smooth, swift motion, your fingers close the blades and cut the cigar. A double-blade guillotine provides a cleaner cut compared to a single-blade. This cutter is good for most cigar shapes and sizes.

Different Cutters

Next, we have the V-cutter. This device operates like the guillotine cutter, but its blade differs. It carves a wedge or “V” shape into the cap of the cigar, allowing for a more concentrated draw that intensifies the flavor. Although you can use it on any cigar, it works best with thicker ones.

Another interesting tool is the punch cutter, which features a cylindrical blade that creates a circular hole in the cigar’s cap. This method provides a clean and controlled draw, often referred to as a “bullet” or “punch” cut. Many cigar enthusiasts prefer it because it keeps tobacco bits from entering their mouths.

The last cutter is the most elegant of our selection. Scissor cutters are a great way to cut your cigar. They offer more precision and are preferred by experienced smokers who want a custom cut. While this is a great way to cut, it does take a little more skill than our other options.

Let’s Cut

Now, we’ll find our spot to cut. Look for the cap line, the slightly curved seam where the cap meets the cigar’s body. Cutting below this line can cause the wrapper to unravel, so make sure to cut above it. Cut enough to allow airflow (draw) through the cigar. When in doubt, opt for a smaller cut.

For a guillotine or V cutter, position the cutter and apply firm, quick pressure to make a decisive cut. Avoid slowly squeezing the blades, as this can crush the cigar. When using a punch, press it against the cap and gently twist until it creates a hole. Carefully remove the cutter to avoid tearing the wrapper. Finally, if you use scissors, position the blades and make a swift, controlled snip. It’s a good idea to rotate the scissors on the same plane as your blades to achieve a cleaner cut.

Once we are done, examine the cut to ensure it is clean and does not damage the wrapper. The draw should be smooth, allowing air to pass through easily without resistance. I encourage you to try several cutters and find the one you like best. If you really get into cigars, you will end up with a box of various cutters. I am speaking from experience. Take your time, cut well, and enjoy your cigar.