How to Cut a Cigar: A Complete Guide

By Bravo Cigar Company. Educational content for adults 21 and older who already use cigars.

Why How You Cut a Cigar Matters

You've selected a premium cigar, stored it at perfect humidity, and found the right moment to light up. The last thing you want is to ruin the experience with a bad cut. Cutting a cigar properly is the first critical step in the smoking ritual , it determines how the cigar draws, how evenly it burns, and ultimately how enjoyable the entire experience will be.

A poor cut can tear the wrapper, compress the filler, or create an opening that's too large or too small. The result? A tight draw that requires effort with every puff, or a loose draw that burns too hot and wastes the tobacco. A clean, precise cut sets the stage for an even burn and full flavor development.

This guide covers everything you need to know about cutting a cigar , the types of cutters, the cutting techniques, and how to match the cut to the cigar's shape and size.

The Main Types of Cigar Cutters

Guillotine Cutter (Straight Cut)

The guillotine cutter is the most common and versatile cutter in the cigar world. It uses a single or double blade to make a straight, clean cut across the cap of the cigar. Double-blade guillotines are preferred because they cut from both sides simultaneously, creating a more even cut with less risk of compressing the tobacco.

Best for: Most cigar shapes, including Robustos, Toros, and Churchills.

Our Copper Guillotine Cigar Cutter features a precision double-blade design that is designed for clean, straight cuts , the kind of tool you want in your cigar kit.

Punch Cutter

A punch removes a small circular section of the cap. It is suited to rounded, closed heads when the punch diameter fits the cigar. It is generally unsuitable for pointed torpedoes, and an oversized punch can damage a small cap. Cut choice changes the opening, not the cigar's nicotine content.

Best for: Rounded heads with enough cap surface for the chosen punch diameter.

V-Cutter (Cat's Eye Cut)

A V-cutter removes a wedge from the cap rather than slicing off its entire end. The size and depth of the opening depend on the tool. Choose a cutter that fits the cigar's ring gauge and use its cradle or stop as instructed; the cut does not guarantee a particular flavor intensity.

Best for: Medium to large ring gauge cigars, smokers who want a balanced draw.

Scissors

Cigar scissors are an elegant, old-school option that works similarly to a guillotine cutter but with a scissor mechanism. They're popular for larger ring gauge cigars and offer precise control over the depth of the cut.

Best for: Large ring gauge cigars, ceremonial occasions.

How to Cut a Cigar: Step by Step

The goal is to remove part of the cap while retaining its structure, as explained in Cigar Aficionado's cutting guide.

Step 1: Identify the Cap

Most handmade premium cigars have a closed head covered by a cap made from wrapper leaf. Look for the seams on the rounded end and the shoulder where it meets the straight sides. The goal is to open the head while leaving enough cap attached to secure the wrapper.

Keep the cut on the rounded head, above the shoulder where the curved cap meets the straight sides. Leave part of the cap attached to hold the wrapper in place. Cutting below that shoulder into the body can make the wrapper unravel.

Step 2: Position the Cutter

Hold the cutter steady and place only the closed head into its opening. Align the blades just above the shoulder; begin with a shallow cut rather than relying on one fixed distance for every cigar. Keep fingers clear of the blades.

If using a guillotine cutter, make sure the cigar is centered and the blades are aligned with where you want the cut.

Step 3: Make the Cut

With a smooth, firm motion, close the cutter. Don't hesitate , a quick, confident cut produces a cleaner result than a slow, tentative one. If using a double-blade guillotine, both blades should engage simultaneously for an even cut.

For a punch cutter, press the blade firmly into the center of the cap and twist slightly, then pull straight out. The small circular piece of cap will come with it.

For a V-cutter, seat the cigar head in the tool's cradle and close the blade with a firm motion according to the cutter's instructions. Do not force the cigar past its stop. A V-cutter is not inserted and twisted like a punch.

Step 4: Check the Draw

Before lighting, gently test airflow through the cut opening. Some resistance is normal. If a shallow cut leaves the cap obstructing airflow, remove a little more while keeping the shoulder intact. A deeper cut does not reliably fix an overpacked or overly moist cigar.

Step 5: Inspect the Cut

Look at the cut end. The surface should be clean and even, with no torn or jagged edges. The wrapper should be intact around the perimeter. If you see any damage to the wrapper, you may need to be gentler with your next cut or try a different cutter type.

Cutting Different Cigar Shapes

Parejo (Straight-Sided)

A parejo is a straight-sided cigar, usually with a rounded head and an open foot. A straight cutter is a versatile option for these shapes. Keep the cut above the shoulder so the wrapper remains secured.

Our Bangalore Series (6x52 Toro) is a classic parejo , a guillotine straight cut is ideal.

Torpedo and Belicoso

Torpedoes and belicosos have tapered heads. A straight cutter lets you remove a little of the tip and reassess the opening. Leave the taper and cap structure intact. A V-cut depends on the tool and head shape; a punch usually is not suitable for a pointed tip.

Perfecto

Perfectos have a shaped body and tapered or closed foot, with head shapes that vary. Inspect the head and remove only enough cap to open it while retaining the structure. Do not assume every perfecto needs the same depth or cutter type.

Common Cutting Mistakes to Avoid

• Cutting too much off: Removing too much of the cap can cause the wrapper to unravel. Always start with a shallow cut and go deeper if needed.
• Cutting too little: A cap that still blocks the opening can restrict airflow. Recut only a small amount if needed, staying above the shoulder.
• Using a dull cutter: A dull blade will crush the tobacco instead of cutting it cleanly. Keep your cutter sharp, or replace it when the blades lose their edge.
• Hesitating: A slow, tentative cut is more likely to tear the wrapper. Commit to the cut with a smooth, firm motion.
• Cutting at an angle: Hold the cigar perpendicular to the cutter for a straight, even cut. An angled cut can create an uneven draw.

Caring for Your Cigar Cutter

A quality cigar cutter is a precision instrument that deserves care. Here's how to keep yours in top condition:

• Clean after use: Remove tobacco residue according to the cutter manufacturer's instructions, keeping fingers away from sharp blades. Use only cleaning products approved for its materials and finish.
• Keep it dry: Moisture can cause the blades to rust. Store your cutter in a dry place away from your humidor.
• Service or replace: If blades tear or crush rather than cut, ask the manufacturer about service or replacement. Do not attempt to sharpen a tool that is not designed for user servicing.

Our Multi-Tool Cigar Lighter listing describes integrated cutting tools. Confirm the tool's cutting capacity, fuel, and flame specifications on its current product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to cut a cigar before lighting it?

A handmade cigar with a closed head needs an opening before use. If it is already open or pre-cut, do not remove extra material unnecessarily. Inspect the cigar rather than assuming every product has the same cap.

What's the best type of cutter for beginners?

A double-blade guillotine cutter is the best choice for beginners. It's versatile, easy to use, and produces a clean, consistent cut on most cigar shapes. Our Copper Guillotine Cigar Cutter is an excellent option.

How far should I cut into the cap?

Identify the shoulder where the rounded head becomes straight, and remove a small amount above it. The exact depth depends on the cigar shape. Preserve enough of the cap to keep the wrapper secured.

Can I use a regular knife to cut a cigar?

While possible, it's not recommended. A regular knife is difficult to control and can crush or tear the tobacco. A dedicated cigar cutter is designed specifically for the job and will produce a much cleaner cut.

What if my cigar's draw is too tight even after cutting?

If the cap still obstructs the opening, a very small additional cut may help. Otherwise stop cutting and check the cigar's storage condition or ask the retailer about a possible construction issue. Forcing a poker through the cigar or aggressively squeezing it can damage the wrapper.

Cut With Confidence

Cutting a cigar is the first step in a ritual that's been refined over centuries. With the right cutter, a steady hand, and a bit of practice, you can improve the consistency of your cuts , setting the stage for an even burn, smooth draw, and full flavor development.

Explore our cigar accessories collection for cutters, lighters, and travel cases, then browse our Premium Cigars collection to find your next smoke.

Tobacco notice: Cigars contain nicotine and pose health risks even without inhalation. A mild rating is not a safety claim. See the National Cancer Institute.