By T.J. Mayben – Feb 9, 2024
We went over how to choose your cigar in the first article here. So, in this second article, we’ll ask a question as old as Mankind itself: should I straight-cut, v-cut, or punch my premium cigar?
So, to cut or punch? That IS the question.
And the answer is pretty simple; whichever method works for YOU and is appropriate for the cigar you’re about to light. So, let’s talk about each method, and how and when they’re used:
So we’ll begin with the straight (or guillotine) cut. Why guillotine? Because it cleanly cuts the head off the cigar! This type of cut can be made by an open cutter or one with a backstop. You insert the head of the cigar so the blades will cut just above the shoulder, and once properly positioned, just close the cutter with one smooth, quick motion. Getting the cut right is important, as cutting too high on the cigar might pinch or tear the cap (if your cutter is a little dull) or make too small an opening for your liking; cutting too low (below the shoulder) can lead to the shoulder tobacco coming off into your mouth, or as a worst case the actual wrapper of the cigar may unravel. So take the time to ensure you’re properly positioned prior to committing to the cut. A straight cut is the most common, provides the most airflow, and is suitable for pretty much any cigar.
Next up is the V-cut. This is my favorite cut, as it also provides a decent amount of airflow but leaves a good portion of the cap in place. The V-cut rarely leads to a loss of cap or an unravel. V-cutters have a cupped rest for the cigar’s head, so it takes the uncertainty of where to cut away…simply seat the cigar, and press down on the plunger…the v-shaped blade does the rest. This is best for traditionally capped cigars, and at times can be used on torpedos…but for those I usually recommend a straight-cut made at a 45° angle (which increases the cut surface and provides more airflow). Naturally, the gauge of the cigar comes into play here, as some small gauge cigars may be damaged by a v-cut…so use good judgement.
Lastly, we’ll talk about the punch. When I first started enjoying cigars, all I wanted to do was punch! A cigar punch is a small diameter, sharpened tube that can be pushed into the cap of the cigar and removes a clean round plug. This should only be used on either traditional capped or flat-capped cigars (not torpedos). So if it only makes a small hole, does that mean the airflow is less than a straight or v-cut? Sure, but for a lot of cigars, depending on the tightness of the draw, the punch provides plenty of flow. It also preserves the most surface area of the cap. If you’re a smoker that enjoys infused or sweetened premium cigars (such as the Acid line from Drew Estate), I recommend the punch so you’re not cutting away too much cap. Actually, I recommend punching for all cigars (except torpedos) where the ring gauge will allow it, as it looks pretty cool, and there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from performing a perfectly centered and executed punch.
So, those are the three main methods to cut (or punch) your cigar. Now it’s up to you to try all three methods until you figure out which one works for you best. But you know, why stop there? Part of the fun of cigars is accessories, so be sure to get yourself different cutters of each type so you can choose which to use based on the cigar you’re about to enjoy.
tj
NEXT ARTICLE: Step 3 – Light That Cigar!