Different Ways to Enjoy a Cigar
Cigar enthusiasts will tell you that smoking a cigar is almost ritualistic. The process involves certain routines and rituals that enhance the experience. It begins with selecting the perfect cigar and then cutting it properly. A poorly cut cigar can ruin your smoking experience and affect the overall quality of the cigar. If the cut is too large, it will affect the draw and the burn rate. Too small a cut can make the draw too tight, impacting the quality of your smoke. Therefore, it's crucial to learn the proper way to cut a cigar and find the right cut for you.
Different Ways to Cut a Cigar
First, consider the type of cap on your cigar. There are two main types: the Parejo and the Figurado. The Parejo cap is the most common, rounded with gentle shoulders, and found on shapes like Churchill, Toro, Robusto, Lonsdale, and Corona. The Figurado cap is long and pointed, seen on shapes such as Torpedos, Pyramids, Diademas, and Belicosos.
Cigar Accessories
Whether you are new to cigar smoking or an experienced aficionado, having the right accessories can enhance your experience.
There are three main ways to cut a cigar: the straight cut, the V-cut, and the hole punch:
1. The Straight Cut
The straight cut is the most popular. It is simple, quick, and effective. This cut involves making a clean slice across the cap. For a rounded cap, aim to cut at the shoulders, removing about 2mm. With a Figurado, the cut should expose a diameter similar to a rounded cap.
2. The V-Cut
The V-cut removes a wedge from the cap. This cut keeps the cap largely intact, reducing the amount of tobacco debris that enters your mouth. If the draw is too tight after the first cut, a second cut perpendicular to the first can create a star-shaped opening. V-cuts are best for Parejo caps. However, if you tend to chew your cigar, a V-cut might close up mid-smoke.
3. The Hole Punch
The hole punch creates a small hole in the cap, keeping most of the cap intact. This method is neat and works best with Parejo caps and occasionally Chisel caps. Aim to punch the hole in the center for an even draw. Blow out any loose tobacco before enjoying your smoke.
Types of Cutters
For those looking to become true aficionados, it's worth trying different types of cuts to find your preference. Here are the most common cutters:
1. The Guillotine
Guillotine cutters are the most common. There are single and double blade versions. Double blade guillotines are preferred as they offer a cleaner cut. Ensure the cigar is straight and the blades are sharp. The best guillotine cutters restrict the length of the cap cut, accommodating cigars up to 54 ring gauge.
2. The Punch Cutter
Punch cutters create a round hole in the cap. These are easy to use, provided you punch the center of the cap. If the draw is too tight, additional punches can widen the hole. Punch cutters are not suitable for Figurado caps or Box Press cigars, but they can work on Chisel caps.
3. The V-Cutter
Also known as the wedge cut or cat’s eye, the V-cut creates a wedge in the cap. It's ideal for long, thin cigars, though it can also be used to create a star-shaped cut on larger cigars. The downside is that the blade is often not removable, making it difficult to sharpen.
4. The Cigar Scissors
Elegant and portable, cigar scissors are collapsible and often come with additional tools for maintaining your lighter. While handy, they are not as efficient as double-bladed guillotine cutters.
The Right Way to Cut a Cigar
The perfect cut is subjective, varying with personal preference. A good cut should allow a comfortable draw, keep the cap intact, and prevent tobacco from entering your mouth. Experiment with different cuts and cutters to find what works best for you and match the cut to your specific cigar.
