10 Best Cigar Cutters: Expert Picks

A precise cut is essential for a good cigar experience. It affects the draw, flavor, and aroma, enhancing your smoking session. With so many cutter types available, finding one that suits your style can be challenging.

In this article, we’ll list the ten best cigar cutters to suit each different smoking style. We’ve considered various criteria, like cutter types, budgets, and portability to cover all bases.

So, whether you have a preference for Gordos, smoking outdoors, or an eye for luxury, we’ve got the cutter for you.

Best 10 cigar cutters:

Xikar Xi Series Double Guillotine – Best for beginners
Colibri V-Cut – Best for bold smokers
Victorinox Cigar 79 – Best for outdoor smokers
Davidoff DuoCut Punch Cutter – Best for Gordo smokers
El Casco M765L – Best for luxury smokers
S. T. Dupont MaxiJet Cigar Cutter – Best for small/medium cigar smokers
Xikar VX2 V-Cutter – Best for flavor aficionados
Lotus Barracuda Serrated Cigar Cutter – Best for smokers on a budget
Colibri Quasar 2-in-1 Desk Cutter – Best for versatile smokers
Vertigo Cigar Buddy – Best for relaxed smokers

Our Picks for the Best Cigar Cutters

Xikar Xi Series Double Guillotine – Best for Beginners

The best word to describe the Xikar Xi Series Double Guillotine is ‘efficient’. Its ease of use makes it an ideal choice for beginners. Plus, its durability means it will be a part of your smoking setup for a long time.

While it may not be a cheap cutter, you’re paying for quality. Its stainless steel blades are precision-engineered, meaning cuts are clean and consistent. This will keep the cigar wrapper safe and sound.

If you want to take it out and about, you can. Its sleek design keeps materials to a minimum, making it lightweight and small in size.

Price: $67.95
Cutter type: Double guillotine
Manufacturer: Xikar
Dimensions: 3.5 inches (length) x 2 inches (width) x 0.5 inches (thickness)
Weight: 2.5 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: Up to 60-ring gauge
Material: Stainless steel
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: The Xikar Xi Series has sharp, stainless steel blades. These create clean, precise cuts. This sharpness will keep the wrapper safe from tearing, even after regular use.
Portability: This compact, lightweight cutter fits easily into your pocket or travel kit. It’s ideal for on-the-go smokers.
Ease of Maintenance: The rust-resistant stainless steel blades are easy to clean.
Warranty: The Xi Series Double Guillotine has a lifetime warranty. This covers all manufacturing defects.
User Reviews: Across the reviews for the Xi Series Double Guillotine, users were eager to compliment the build quality of the product. The overall sharpness of the blades was also a common plus point.

Pros	Cons
The precision-engineered stainless steel blades are both sharp and durable	Struggles with larger cigars near 60-ring gauge
Compact design perfect for traveling smokers	Price can be considered expensive for beginners
Excellent brand reputation	Potential for misalignment of the blades, which can cause an uneven cut
Lifetime warranty guaranteed

Colibri V-Cut – Best for Bold Smokers

The Colibri V-Cut effortlessly creates a deep wedge for a bold, flavorsome draw. Its spring-loaded stainless steel blade cuts through cigars with precision. This ensures no tears or damage to the cigar wrapper and makes it arguably the best v-cut cigar cutter.

One of the V-Cut’s most impressive features is its durable metal casing. The stainless steel blade is rust-proof, even after multiple washes. Users will benefit from its rubber exterior, creating a comfortable grip.

Price: $49
Cutter type: V-cut
Manufacturer: Colibri
Dimensions: 2.8 inches (length) x 1.63 inches (width) x 0.5 inches (thickness)
Weight: 4 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: Up to 60+ ring gauge
Material: Stainless steel
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: The spring-loaded stainless steel blades cut through cigars cleanly and with precision. They create a deep v-shaped wedge.
Portability: This isn’t the lightest cigar cutter. But it is relatively small and easy to carry around with you. It will easily fit into your pocket or cigar pouch, ready to be taken with you wherever you plan to go.
Ease of Maintenance: The blade on the Colibri V-Cut is made from stainless steel, meaning it won’t be prone to rust. This makes it easy to maintain and clean.
Warranty: The Colibri V-Cut has a warranty of two years from the date of purchase. The warranty covers any mechanical defects that have arisen under normal use.
User Reviews: The consistency of the cuts provided by the Colibri V-Cut are evident among the product’s user reviews. With some commenters calling the Colibri V-Cut the “greatest cutter of all time,” it’s safe to say the majority of the feedback is positive.

Pros	Cons
Creates a deep cut for a strong draw	Will not work for small ring gauges
Ergonomic, comfortable design	Requires precision when cutting
High-quality, durable build	Doesn’t have a straight-cut feature
Works for a variety of cigar shapes

Victorinox Cigar 79 – Best for Outdoor Smokers

It’s hard to find a more useful smoking accessory than the Victorinox Cigar 79. It’s a Swiss Army Knife with the handy inclusion of cigar scissors. Alongside the scissors, the contraption contains a knife, screwdriver, and a corkscrew. It’s hands-down the most versatile cutter on this list.

As a Swiss Army Knife, the Cigar 79 is designed for portability. It takes up very little pocket space when you’re on the go.

Aesthetically the Cigar 79 is iconic, with its traditional red handle. The Swiss manufacturing precision is clear, with each component pulling out smoothly. This remains the case after frequent use.

Price: $52
Cutter type: Scissors
Manufacturer: Victorinox
Dimensions: 3.3 inches (length) x 1.1 inches (width) x 0.9 inches (thickness)
Weight: 3.4 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: Up to 50-ring gauge
Material: Stainless steel
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: The stainless steel blades are sharp. They will remain sharp for a long time too. The cut produced by the scissors is very precise when used correctly.
Portability: The Victorinox Cigar 79 is built with portability in mind. It has a Swiss Army Knife form and is small enough to fit into any pocket. The cutting scissors have to be pulled out from the knife’s handle.
Ease of Maintenance: The Victorinox Cigar 79 is easy to maintain. You’ll need to occasionally oil the hinges to keep the mechanism working smoothly.
Warranty: The Victorinox Cigar 79 is covered by Victorinox’s lifetime warranty. This covers any manufacturing defects, excluding damage caused by wear and tear.
User Reviews: Reviews for the Victorinox Cigar 79 further solidify the company’s legendary status among consumers. Users have praised the functionality of the mechanism, from the smoothness of the way the tools pull out to how useful each individual tool is. While negative reviews of the cutter are hard to come by, some have complained that the sharpness of the scissors does decline over time.

Pros	Cons
Multi-functional, also containing a screwdriver, corkscrew and more	Not ideal for large 60+ ring gauge cigars
Good quality build	Only offers a straight cut
Pocket-sized and portable	Not a cigar-specific accessory
Precise cut

Davidoff DuoCut Punch Cutter – Best for Gordo Smokers

At $290, the Davidoff DuoCut Punch Cutter is not cheap. However, what you get in return is a high-quality punch cutter. Despite its small size, it has a substantial weight. This doesn’t detract from its portability, as it will fit into any size pocket or cigar tin. It also has a handy keyring attachment.

As punch cutters go, the DuoCut is versatile. It offers two different punch sizes for different types of cigars. It features a 5mm punch for smaller cigars and a 7mm punch for larger ones. This makes it ideal for Gordo smokers while being appropriate for medium-sized cigars.

Cigarillo smokers should look elsewhere, as the DuoCut isn’t compatible with cigars under a 40-ring gauge.

Price: $290
Cutter type: Punch cutter
Manufacturer: Davidoff
Dimensions: 2.5 inches (length) x 0.5 inches (width) x 0.5 inches (thickness)
Weight: 2.9 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: The DuoCut Punch Cutter will work on cigars with a ring gauge between 40 and 70.
Material: Stainless steel
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: The DuoCut Punch Cutter creates a 5mm or 7mm hole. It does so with great consistency and precision thanks to its two razor-sharp blades.
Portability: The DuoCut Punch Cutter is small enough to fit into your pocket if you’re on the go. For added portability, the cutter has a keyring attachment. This allows you to attach it to your car/house keys so you never leave it behind.
Ease of Maintenance: With rubbing alcohol, maintaining the DuoCut is simple. This will remove tobacco oils with ease, making the cleaning process simple and quick.
Warranty: Davidoff offers a two-year warranty on cigar cutters, covering manufacturing defects
User Reviews: Users of the Davidoff DuoCut Punch Cutter are generally keen to praise precision of the punches created by the cutter. The two different punch sizes were also appreciated, with versatility a large factor in their purchase of the cutter. A small selection of users believe that the cutter perhaps isn’t quite worth its premium price tag.

Pros	Cons
Consistent, clean punch	Will not work on cigarillos
Effortless to use	Not versatile
Great portability	Expensive
Durable

El Casco M765L – Best for Luxury Smokers

The Spanish-crafted El Casco M765L is a real statement piece. Its 23K gold exterior gives it a classy, vintage aesthetic. However, good looks are irrelevant if the cutter doesn’t perform well. Thankfully, the M765L lives up to its appearance. Its single guillotine blade provides precise, clean cuts with minimal effort.

Precision is evident with the M765L, which was developed using Swiss watchmaking techniques. This contributes to the smoothness of the mechanism and the durability of the cutter.

As it’s a large, weighty cutter, the M765L isn’t portable. Designed as a permanent tabletop piece, it’s ideal for offices or smoking lounges.

Price: $203
Cutter type: Guillotine
Manufacturer: El Casco
Dimensions: 6.1 inches (length) x 3.2 inches (width) x 1.3 inches (thickness)
Weight: 11.6 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: Up to 50-ring gauge
Material: Stainless steel, copper, nickel, 23K gold
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: The El Casco M765L allows you to rest the cigar onto the cutter’s base. Doing this before making the cut allows for maximum precision.
Portability: The M765L is a table-top cigar cutter, meaning it lacks portability.
Ease of Maintenance: The M765L is easy to maintain, requiring only a dry cloth.
Warranty: The El Casco M765L comes with a lifetime warranty. This protects it against manufacturing defects.
User Reviews: Many of the user reviews of the El Casco M765L praise the product’s weight, high-quality feel, and visual appeal. It has also been praised for its ease of use, as well as one user noticing how satisfying the mechanism was to operate. Some users have accused the M765L of lacking the cutting precision to back up its price tag.

Pros	Cons
Has a luxury look and feel	Expensive
High-quality materials	Lacks versatility
Smooth cutting mechanism	Not portable
	Not ideal for casual smokers/beginners

S. T. Dupont MaxiJet Cigar Cutter – Best for Small/Medium Cigar Smokers

The S. T. Dupont MaxiJet Cigar Cutter has a luxury look and feel to it, accentuated by its Parisian roots. Of course, being priced at $200, this is exactly what you’d expect.

Thankfully, its performance matches its aesthetics, with its dual stainless steel blades as sharp as any other cutters within its price range. Being compatible with cigars up to a 52 ring gauge somewhat limits its usage, especially if you have a preference for larger cigars.

However, if you prefer small to medium cigars, you’ll be guaranteed a clean, straight cut every time, with no risk of crushing the wrapper. The consistency of the cutter cannot be overstated, even after multiple uses.

Price: $200
Cutter type: Double Guillotine
Manufacturer: S. T. Dupont
Dimensions: 2.8 inches (length) x 1.8 inches (width) x 0.4 inches (thickness)
Weight: 3.7 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: Up to 52 ring gauge
Material: Stainless steel, chrome
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: The MaxiJet’s super-sharp stainless steel blades will cut any cigar (up to 52 ring gauge) with ultimate precision.
Portability: The MaxiJet is ideal for carrying around with you, as its flat shape makes it perfect for sliding into your pocket.
Ease of Maintenance: With its flat surface and minimal hard-to-clean areas, the MaxiJet is easy to maintain. It also features blades that are designed to stay sharper for longer.
Warranty: S. T. Dupont offers a two-year warranty, covering any manufacturing defects.
User Reviews: Unlike most cutters, some users suggest that the S. T. Dupont MaxiJet improves with time as its joints loosen up. Most commenters are also impressed with the sharpness of the blades and how easily the double guillotine cuts through cigar caps. Unfortunately, one commenter stated that the S. T. Dupont logo does start to fade after extended use.

Pros	Cons
Luxurious, ergonomic feel	Undoubtedly an expensive option
Super-sharp dual stainless steel blades	Has a limited maximum ring gauge compatibility
Blades stay sharp even after extended use
Easy to keep clean

Xikar VX2 V-Cutter – Best for Flavor Aficionados

A well-executed V-cut can enhance the flavor profile more than other cut types. However, a poor cut can damage the cigar, ruining the flavor and sometimes collapsing the entire cigar. Therefore, choosing a reliable V-cutter, such as the Xikar VX2 is vital.

Reliability is certainly a word that you’d associate with Xikar, who are known for great quality at great prices, with the VX2 proving no exception. At $54.99, it sits on the very borderline of low-budget and medium-budget, but with a super-sharp stainless steel blade, it performs like a high-budget item.

The depth of the cut enhances the complexity of flavors that aficionados crave.

It may sit relatively small in your hand, but that doesn’t stop the VX2 cutter from feeling like a real hardy piece of equipment. It has that instant feel of durability, giving off an expectation that you’ll still be using it two decades on from now. While that may not quite end up being the case, the VX2 is likely to stay in your setup for a substantial amount of time.

Price: $54.99
Cutter type: V-Cut
Manufacturer: Xikar
Dimensions: 4.7 inches (height) x 3.15 inches (width) x 1.1 inches (thickness)
Weight: 4 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: Up to 64 ring gauge
Material: Metal, stainless steel
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: The stainless steel blade on the Xikar VX2 is incredibly sharp. And creates deep V-cuts without damaging the cigar wrapper. Over time, it may become less consistent.
Portability: The Xikar VX2 is small and compact and can easily be taken out and about. However, it’s not the most comfortable when placed in trouser pockets due to its thickness.
Ease of Maintenance: The VX2 requires very little maintenance to keep it in good shape. It is worth cleaning every so often to remove debris and tobacco oils from the blade’s surface.
Warranty: The VX2 V-Cutter is supported by Xikar’s lifetime warranty.
User Reviews: One of the most frequent comments made by users regarding the VX2 V-Cutter is its brilliant value for money. Many users are surprised about the deepness of the V-cut created, despite the cutter’s mid to low pricing. Some have reported their cigars being crushed, while others recommend the Colibri V-Cut as a preferable alternative.

Pros	Cons
Highly durable	Triggers can sometimes feel tough to push
Offers good deep cut	Not the prettiest cutter
Cuts cigars up to 64 ring gauge	Sometimes lacks consistency
Includes a lifetime warranty

Lotus Barracuda Serrated Cigar Cutter – Best for Smokers on a Budget

The blades on the Lotus Barracuda have a fearsome look about them, with serrated edges reminiscent of a bread knife. They are far from being all bark and no bite, however, as they cut through large cigars of up to 80 ring gauge with ease.

This sort of quality is difficult to find with cutters priced at under $50, which makes the $40 Barracuda feel like a steal. Also, for a guillotine cutter, it’s surprisingly versatile, with the option of a single or double retraction of the blades depending on your preference.

While the serrated blades may be the Barracuda’s unique selling point, they will require regular upkeep to retain their sharpness. They won’t be quite as simple to clean as a straight-edged blade, but alas, this is only a minor criticism.

Price: $40
Cutter type: Double guillotine
Manufacturer: Lotus
Dimensions: 4.2 inches (length) x 3.2 inches (width) x 1.3 inches (thickness)
Weight: 5.6 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: Up to 80 ring gauge
Material: Stainless steel
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: The ultra-sharp serrated blades create consistent cuts with preciseness, keeping the cigar safe from tearing and crushing.
Portability: The Lotus Barracuda isn’t the lightest cigar cutter, nor is it the most streamlined. It is portable, but more so if you plan on carrying it in a pouch or a bag rather than a pocket.
Ease of Maintenance: The serrated blades will require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep their sharpness.
Warranty: Lotus offers a lifetime warranty on the Barracuda, covering any manufacturing problems
User Reviews: The longevity of the Lotus Barracuda Serrated Cigar Cutter is one of the standout points made by users. The sharpness of the serrated blades has been highly praised, especially when the cost of the product is considered. Some users have remarked that the cutter is slightly more bulky than they had first anticipated.

Pros	Cons
Precise, clean cut	Bulkier than most guillotine cutters
Accommodates large cigars	Requires regular maintenance
Good value for money
Lifetime warranty

Colibri Quasar 2-in-1 Desk Cutter – Best for Versatile Smokers

The two-in-one Colibri Quasar desktop cutter is the perfect solution for home smokers who like to switch between straight and V-cuts. It offers both formats within the same tabletop contraption, making it one of the most versatile cutters on the market.

Aesthetically, the Quasar is striking, with its unique, all-metal geometric design giving it real gravitas – an ideal desktop statement piece. However, cigar cutters aren’t meant to be judged solely on their looks.

Thankfully, the physical side of the Quasar lives up to the billing. With its robust yet smooth mechanism, the spring-loaded blades have no trouble powering through cigar caps. The cutter even disposes of the clippings into an in-built container for easy removal.

Price: $150
Cutter type: Guillotine, V-cut
Manufacturer: Colibri
Dimensions: 2.3 inches (length) x 3.1 inches (width) x 2.8 inches (height)
Weight: 21 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: Up to 70 ring gauge (guillotine), 60+ ring gauge (V-cut)
Material: Metal, stainless steel, rubber
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: The Quasar uses oiled pistons for a smooth, clean cut. The sharpness of the blades ensures that cigar caps are removed in a swift motion.
Portability: The Colibri Quasar cutter is designed for desktops, with its size and weight meaning it isn’t portable.
Ease of Maintenance: There is no need to take apart the entire structure of the Quasar cutter to clean it. It should only require a wipe down of the exterior and a removal of debris from the cutting area.
Warranty: Colibri offers a two-year warranty on the Quasar cutter
User Reviews: Users of the Colibri Quasar 2-in-1 cutter are just as eager to praise the contraption’s stability as they are to comment on its versatility. Users have also praised Colibri’s attention to detail, fitting a rubber coating to the underside of the cutter to eradicate slipping. One user noted that the cigar clippings container is somewhat small and needs to be emptied frequently.

Pros	Cons
Has both a straight and V-cut function	Isn’t portable
Collects cigar clippings for easy disposal	Isn’t cheap
Aesthetically attractive	Cigar clippings container is a little small
Built with durability in mind

Vertigo Cigar Buddy – Best for Relaxed Smokers

The Vertigo Cigar Buddy is unlikely to be your main cigar cutter. It lacks the precision and durability of higher-end products, but that’s not its primary purpose.

Much like the Victorinox 79 Cigar, albeit on a less sophisticated level, the Vertigo Cigar Buddy is a workhorse. It’s been designed as a multipurpose tool to carry around with you, doing the jobs of multiple tools so you’re never caught lacking.

While it doesn’t have a screwdriver, nail file, or carving knife attached, the Cigar Buddy features a corkscrew, bottle opener, and foil cutter. So, if you fancy having a cigar and a drink under the stars in a remote location, it’s a worthwhile option.

Price: $20
Cutter type: Guillotine
Manufacturer: Vertigo
Dimensions: 4.5 inches (length) x 1.8 inches (width) x 0.5 inches (thickness)
Weight: 5.6 ounces
Ring Gauge Compatibility: Up to 56 ring gauge
Material: Metal
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision: Due to the product’s small size, the blade on the Cigar Buddy cannot retract very far, resulting in a lack of blade force. This can detract from the cutting precision, especially if you’re cutting cigars close to the maximum ring gauge.
Portability: The Vertigo Cigar Buddy is highly portable, having been designed for on-the-go use. It’s flat and lightweight, meaning it will slot into any pocket with ease.
Ease of Maintenance: The metal used to make the Vertigo Cigar Buddy isn’t stainless, and may rust if it isn’t stored away in a dry place. Keeping it clean is simple, however, as the contraption is small and all of its parts are exposed for wiping down.
Warranty: The Vertigo Cigar Buddy has a one-year warranty.
User Reviews: Users praised the Vertigo Cigar Buddy, with one noting it makes you the most useful person at the party.

Pros	Cons
Also features a cutter, corkscrew, foil cutter, and bottle opener	Doesn’t have the best build quality
Very cheap	Cutter doesn’t have a lot of force to it
Easy to slip into a pocket	May rust if left in damp conditions
Perfect for on-the-go use

Comparison of the Best Cigar Cutters

Make your search for the best cigar cutter easier with our handy table. Below, we’ve broken down all the key points for the top cigar cutters in one place:

Cutter	Cutter type	Price	Dimensions (LxWxT)	Weight	Ring gauge compatibility(Max)	Warranty
Xikar Xi Series Double Guillotine	Double guillotine	$49	3.5 x 2 x 0.5	2.5 Oz	60	Lifetime
Colibri V-Cut	V-cut	$49	2.8 x 1.63 x 0.5	4 Oz	60+	Two years
Victorinox Cigar 79	Scissors	$52	3.3 x 1.1 x 0.9	3.3 Oz	50	Lifetime
Davidoff DuoCut Punch Cutter	Punch cut	$290	2.5 x 0.5 x 0.5	2.9 Oz	70	Two years
El Casco M765L	Guillotine	$203	6.1 x 3.2 x 1.3	11.6 Oz	50	Lifetime
S. T. Dupont MaxiJet Cigar Cutter	Double guillotine	$200	2.8 x 1.8 x 0.4	3.7 Oz	52	Two years
Xikar VX2 V-Cutter	V-cut	$54.99	4.7 x 3.2 x 1.1	4 Oz	64	Lifetime
Lotus Barracuda Serrated Cigar Cutter	Double guillotine	$40	4.2 x 3.2 x 1.3	5.6 Oz	80	Lifetime
Colibri Quasar	Guillotine, V-cut	$150	2.3 x 3.1 x 2.8	21 Oz	70 (guillotine), 60+ (V-cut)	Two years
Vertigo Cigar Buddy	Guillotine	$20	4.5 x 1.8 x 0.5	5.6 Oz	56	One year

Selection Criteria

When it comes to selecting cigar cutters, we haven’t just picked the obvious choice. In fact, there are multiple criteria upon which we base our picks. These include the type of cutter, its ease of maintenance, and its portability. Our insights come from manual research, plus comparing lots of cigar cutter reviews.

Here’s how we determine which cutter is best for which style of smoking:

Build Quality/Durability – We only chose cutters that are made from high-quality materials. This ensures long-term durability to avoid frequent replacements. It also ensures consistent performance.
Price – Our list includes a range of options suitable for different budgets. For example, new cigar smokers may not want to dive straight in with an expensive cutter. On the other hand, more experienced smokers may prefer luxury accessories.
Dimensions/Portability – You’ll also find a choice of size options for cutters that can be taken with you on the go or used solely at home.
Blade Sharpness & Cutting Precision – We’ve only included cutters with sharp blades to give you the best taste from cigars. They ensure precise cuts every time.
Cigar Cutter Reviews – We’ve also read countless online reviews for the cigar cutters in our selection. This ensures they meet the grade for customers just like you.

Types of Cigar Cutters

Cigar cutters come in several forms. Each type performs a different job, suiting different smoking preferences.

Guillotine: The guillotine cutter is the most straightforward type of cigar cutter. They feature a blade that cuts the cigar cap off in a single, straight motion. Most guillotine cutters are only effective for cigars up to a 54-ring gauge.
Double guillotine: Double guillotine cutters work identically to single guillotine cutters. But they use two blades for precision. Having two blades makes them more effective for large cigars over the 54-ring gauge mark.
Punch cutter: Punch cutters work like hole punches that you see around offices. They create a hole in the end of the cigar. They help keep the cigar wrapper intact, with a small hole creating a more concentrated draw.
Cigar scissors: The mechanism is the same as regular scissors. But cigar scissors aren’t quite like those in your house. Instead, they have curved blades, shaped specifically for cigars. This allows for a clean, simple cut. Cigar scissors provide the most precise cut, as the control is in your hands.
V-cutter: V-cutters create a V-shaped indent in the cap of the cigar. This brings out different flavors. Choosing the best cigar v-cutter gives you a more concentrated draw than a guillotine.

With each type of cutter providing a different experience, choosing the right one is key. Let’s take a look at how to choose the right cigar cutter.

Choosing the Right Cigar Cutter

When it comes to making the decision of what cigar cutter to choose, there are a few things to consider. These are:

Cutter Type

The most important factor you’ll have to consider is choosing the correct type of cigar cutter. Here are the five main types, and who they serve best:

Guillotine cutter – Best for small to medium-sized cigars.
Double guillotine cutter – Among the top cigar cutters for experienced smokers looking for a perfect cut.
V-cutter – A good cigar cutter choice when used on larger cigars.
Punch cutter – Best when used on larger, 60+ ring gauge cigars.
Scissors – Suited toward experienced smokers, requiring more technique and precision to use.

Ring gauge compatibility

If large, 60+ ring gauge Gordos are your thing, then make sure you check if the cutter can accommodate your cigar. If your cigar is too large for your cigar cutter, it can:

Crush or tear the wrapper
Damage the structure of the cigar during insertion
Create uneven cuts

In contrast, having a cutter that’s too large for your cigar will also have a negative effect. Too much cap may be removed from the cigar, causing it to unravel and fall apart.

Comfort

You’ll instantly notice the benefits of using an ergonomically suitable cigar cutter. It will feel nice to hold, while improving your grip. Having a comfortable grip on the cutter will improve the preciseness of the cut as you line it up.

This is important if you are using cigar scissors, as you’ll require an especially steady set of hands.

Budget

It may be tempting to spend a lot of money on a luxurious cigar cutter packed with a range of features. However, this isn’t always the best option.

If you’re a casual smoker, there may not be any need to go above and beyond when purchasing a cutter. If a reasonably priced guillotine cutter appeals to your needs, it’s likely the best option.

If you’re a regular smoker who is guaranteed to get a lot of use out of the cutter, it may be worth spending a little more. This is because cutters made with expensive, high-quality materials will last longer.

Portability

The size and weight of your cutter will affect its portability. Compact, lightweight cutters are a preferable option for traveling smokers. However, not everyone will be taking their cutter around the globe with them. In this case, a larger table-top cutter will do just fine. If it has a distinctive style, it can even become a statement piece in a room.

Making Your Smoking Experience a Cut Above the Rest

What is the best cigar cutter? With plenty of options above, you can choose the right one for you. Factors include your budget, cigar needs and personal preferences. Now there’s just one more challenge – finding the right cigars to suit your taste!

At Swiss Cuban Cigars, we stock the very best cigars that Cuba has to offer. Looking for the bold complexity of the Bolivar Libertador or the mild elegance of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial? Whatever your preference, we have it in stock. Go ahead, treat yourself to a box of the best Cuban cigars online!

FAQs

What is the point of a cigar cutter?

If you’ve gone out of your way to source high-quality cigars, you’re going to want to smoke them properly. That’s where cigar cutters come in, helping you to cut off the cigar cap cleanly, allowing for an even draw.

When preparing your cigar, it’s always best to use a dedicated cigar cutter. Scissors or knives can tear or crush the wrapper, ruining the cigar.

Is it better to punch or cut a cigar?

This depends on the size of your cigar, with thinner cigars often favoring a straight cut. This is because straight cuts create a wider opening, making for an improved draw.

On the other hand, punch cutting works best for larger cigars (anything above 60-ring gauge). A smaller punched hole allows for a controlled, concentrated draw. It will also prevent loose tobacco from entering your mouth.

Is it OK to cut a cigar with a knife?

It’s always recommended that you use a cigar cutter to remove cigar caps. However, you can achieve adequate results using a knife. Be warned, though. Taking this route will require technique, as you risk damaging the cigar’s structure.

The technique involves slicing along the cap line (the seam where the cap meets the cigar body). If you don’t slice the correct area, your cigar may unravel while you’re smoking it.

How long should a cigar cutter last?

High-quality cigar cutters will last upwards of three years if you use them regularly. Cheaper cigar cutters are unlikely to last longer than a year before the blade becomes blunt. The blades on cheap cigar cutters aren’t designed to be sharpened. This reduces their lifespan.

Do different cigar sizes require different cut types?

Yes, different cigar sizes do require different cut types. For example, punch cuts aren’t a great option for small cigars as they won’t allow for an open draw. Straight cuts provided by a guillotine will work for a range of different-sized cigars. So, it’s simply a case of finding the best guillotine cigar cutter if that’s what you’re after.

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