Attention: This article is for readers over 18. Smoking a cigar for the first time? It's time to learn how to cut it properly. This skill can come in handy even if you don't plan to smoke cigars yourself; you can impress friends at parties and gatherings.
Straight Cut Method with a Cigar Guillotine
Step 1. Choose the Right End of the Cigar to Cut.
Choose the right end of the cigar to cut. This is the end that will go into your mouth, also known as the head of the cigar. The opposite end is called the foot. The head is easy to identify since it usually has a cap and tightly packed tobacco around it to hold the wrapper leaf in place.
- The head can also be easily distinguished by the close proximity of the cigar band (the logo of the cigar brand) next to it.
Step 2. Determine Where the "Shoulder" of the Cigar Ends.
Determine where the "shoulder" of the cigar ends. The shoulder is the part of the cigar where the twisted end begins to straighten out. Just above the shoulder, where the twisted part is still intact, is where you will make the cut.
Step 3. Hold the Cigar with Your Thumb and Index Finger of Your Dominant Hand.
Step 4. Place the Cigar in the Guillotine and Close One Eye to Align It Properly.
Place the cigar in the guillotine and close one eye to align the cigar properly. Make sure it is positioned so the cut will be right above the shoulder of the cigar.
- Remember, it’s better to cut less than more. You can always start over and cut a bit more, but you can't put the cut piece back. It's better to be cautious than regretful later.
Step 5. Swiftly Cut the Cigar in One Smooth Motion with Adequate Force.
Swiftly cut the cigar in one smooth motion using enough force. Hold the cigar firmly with your other hand to prevent it from moving during the cut.
- The key to success is speed. You want the guillotine to quickly slice through the cigar rather than slowly tearing the tobacco leaves.
- Check if your blade is sharp enough. Just like with kitchen knives, the sharper your guillotine, the better. You'll never regret having sharp tools.
Punch Cut Method
Step 1. Get a Cigar Punch.
Get a cigar punch. A cigar punch creates a hole in the head of the cigar. There are three types of cigar punches:
- Bullet Punch: Looks like a keychain and can be carried on your key ring; it has a sharp blade that cuts a hole in the head of the cigar when twisted.
- Havana Punch: More reliable than a bullet punch, it has a built-in tip that retains the cut tobacco.
- Universal Punch: Offers various sizes for cutting different-sized holes.
Step 2. Select a Punch of the Appropriate Size, if Possible, and Insert the Blade into the Head.
Step 3. Once the Blade is Inserted into the Head, Rotate it to Make a Circular Cut, Then Remove the Blade.
Once the blade is inserted into the head, rotate it to make a circular cut, then remove the blade. The cut piece will come out with it.
V-Cut Method
Step 1. Use a V-Cutter for Better Cigar Draw.
Use a V-cutter for better cigar draw. A V-cutter enhances the tobacco smoke draw by cutting a specific groove in the head of the cigar. The only downside is that the draw can become too strong, making the smoke hotter.
- A very good V-cutter should be placed on a table, but it's too large to carry around. The smallest one will be about the size of a regular guillotine and will cost no more than two hundred rubles.
- A V-cutter doesn't trim much of the head of the cigar, meaning the cigar will maintain its integrity.
Step 2. Hold the Cigar in One Hand and the V-Cutter in Your Dominant Hand in the Open Position.
Step 3. Place the End of the Cigar into the Cutter's Opening.
Place the end of the cigar into the cutter's opening. Ensure that the edge of the head doesn't go too far into the cutter; otherwise, the cut will be too large.
Step 4. While Pushing the Cigar into the Cutter, Close the Cutter's Blades.
While pushing the cigar into the cutter, close the cutter's blades. Tap the tip of the cigar or simply blow on it to remove any remaining tobacco bits.
Biting Method
Step 1. Remember that Biting is Not the Best Method and Can Lead to an Unpleasant Smoking Experience.
Remember that biting is not the best method and can lead to an unpleasant smoking experience. Although it's a strange method, it will work… as a last resort. If possible, avoid using this method in favor of any other.
Step 2. Position the Cigar Between Your Teeth, Like with a Guillotine.
Step 3. Gently Bite While Twisting the Cigar.
Step 4. After a Few Bites, the End of the Cigar Will Be Removed and Can Be Easily Detached with Your Hands or Mouth.
