How to cut a cigar with or without a cutter in 4 simple steps
By Connor
Do you want to learn how to properly cut a cigar with or without a cutter?
There are many different ways of properly cutting a cigar, even cutting a cigar with a knife, each having its own quirks depending on the handmade cigar of your choosing. You don’t just pick up a cigar and start puffing. Let’s start with learning how to cut a cigar with a cutter.
1. Choosing The Right Cutter
To get you ready to cut first, you need to choose the right cutter and have in mind, the bigger the cut, the more smoke you’ll draw. The most common cutters available are:
- Guillotine (single or double-bladed)
- Cigar Punch
- Cigar Scissors
- V-Cut
- Cigar Piercer
No matter which cutter you decide on using, the trick is to hold the cigar firmly with one hand using your other hand to slice. You can buy one at Cigar Country.
2. Where to Cut?
Examine the head of the cigar, which is the closed end that you will cut. Look for the cap, a small piece of tobacco that covers the end and holds the cigar together. The goal is to remove a small portion of the cap without damaging the structure of the cigar. A cigar has two ends; the foot is where you light it, and the head you cut off. Place the cutter of your choice right above where you want to cut it and go for it!
3. Moistening
After the right cutter is chosen, the cigar’s head (or cap) must be moistened. The wrapper is extremely delicate; it must to dampened to avoid breaking or tearing. One must place the cigar between lips (no need to lick it!); the humidity on your lips will suffice to keep the cigar from tearing. Now more than ever, make sure you disinfect cutters between uses or don’t share cutters like you don’t share the cigar you are smoking.
4. The Cut
Guillotine, Scissors & V-Cut
Place the moistened head between the blades just below the cap and clip it with a quick and firm hand. Try not to cut more than a 1/4″ and enough to get some air flowing.
Cigar Punch & Cigar Piercer
Hold the cigar towards the head. Place the puncher over the center of the cap. Press the puncher gently and firmly, twisting it.
How To Cut A Cigar With A Knife and Other Unexpected Tools?
You’ve got a delicious Puro and no cutter at hand! What can you do? Do not despair. Cigar industry insiders have to improvise cutting without a cutter most of the time.
If this is the case, here are some unexpected tools to help if you leave or lose your cutter. Cutting a stogie with a knife is not unheard of. Cutters are like socks; they are frequently lost. And remember, a badly cut cigar is better than no cigar:
- Matchstick (use as a puncher)
- Pocket knife/knife (use as a guillotine)
- Scissors (use as cigar scissors)
- Teeth (use your front teeth or central incisors as a guillotine)
- Fingernails (use thumb and index fingers to pick the cap)
Always remember to use a sharp tool. Cut below the flag leaf (cap). Dust off the head to remove any remains, and you are ready to smoke. To read on, check out our How to Smoke a Cigar post. Looking for cigars to buy? Check out our catalog at Cigar Country. Enjoy!
About Cigar Country!
Located in the heart of the Dominican Republic’s tourist region (halfway between Punta Cana and Santo Domingo), our Megastore in La Romana is by far the largest premium cigar store in the Caribbean. Our 2,000+ square feet humidor features the finest handmade Dominican cigars from the most respected manufacturers in the world. Cigar Country’s Experts will guide you through the VegaFina cigar-making experience and assist you in choosing the right cigar for you. Whether it’s for your personal consumption or gifting, we have the widest selection you will ever find at the best DUTY-FREE prices. You will feel at home in our cozy lounging areas and notoriously friendly staff. Hope to have you visit soon. You can also call, chat, or email to contact Cigar Country!