Opening a cigar is a gesture that requires attention: a wrong cut can compromise the draw and the smoking experience.
There are different techniques and tools — cutters (guillotines), punches, and scissors — and the choice depends on the shape of the cigar and personal preference.
Types of cuts
Straight cut (guillotine): clean and fast, suitable for most vitolas (formats).
V-cut: creates a wedge-shaped notch that concentrates the airflow; ideal for fuller-bodied cigars but requires precision.
Punch: circular hole in the cap, controls the draw and prevents loose pieces of wrapper in the mouth; not suitable for figurados or double-figurado formats.
Scissors: offer control and leverage, excellent for slow and precise cuts, require practice.
Tools: features and advice
Guillotines: versatile and widespread; the best ones have sharp double blades, stable assembly, and hard steel blades (≥55 HRC recommended). Press the blades simultaneously for a clean cut.
Double-blade cutters (e.g., Xikar): robust and reliable cut, good ergonomics.
Cigar scissors: excellent for control and finish; choose well-balanced models with an adjustable screw; consider manufacturer maintenance/sharpening.
Punches: practical and clean; prefer punches with a lever to eject residues and blades sharpened from the inside (common diameters 8–9 mm and 11–12 mm).
Choosing the tool based on the format
Figurados and pyramids: prefer a high-quality straight or V-cutter; avoid punches.
Double-figurado cigars (e.g., Toscano): cutting is not essential; they can be cut in half (ammezzare) or have one end trimmed to vary duration and taste.
Caribbean/Cuban cigars: solid head — make a clean cut on the wrapper to ensure the draw.
Recommended procedure for a good cut
Check the humidity of the cap: if it is too dry, moisten the head slightly to prevent cracks.
Position the tool at the right depth: insert just a few millimeters into the head with the guillotine; with the punch, rotate with light pressure.
Execute a single, firm stroke (guillotine) or a controlled cut (scissors).
Check that there are no wrapper fragments in your mouth.
Common mistakes to avoid
Cutting too deeply or at an angle.
Using blunt tools: unsharpened blades tear the wrapper.
Removing the cap with your fingernails (although practiced), risking damage to the cigar.
Tool maintenance
Regularly sharpen blades and scissors.
Avoid play in the mechanisms; quality guillotines must have well-aligned blades with no play.
Final considerations
The choice of cut and tool is also a matter of personal taste: trial and practice will allow you to find the combination that best enhances your chosen cigar. If you wish, I can prepare a summary table or recommend specific models of cutters, punches, or scissors.