Cigar Cutting 101 - In Pictures -

[RGD.]

As it's always a topic of how to cut your cigar - I thought I'd show you how I do it all. First up is the cutters I will be using and the volunteer smokes -
My youngest daughter helped by taking the pictures - not bad for her first time using my camera.



In this picture is what I consider the best way to learn to cut the correct amount off. Now I am using an XiKar here but most all cutters will work the same way. Start by opening your cutter and laying it flat on a surface.



Now insert your smoke directly into the center - then snap the cutter shut.



You should end up with a perfectly cut smoke ready to enjoy.



__________________

[RGD.]

For the next cut we will prepare a torpedo shape cigar. Here I am using the Palio.



Inserting the tip into the cutter somewhere between 1/4" to maybe 3/8". Remember that you can always cut off more if the draw is not good enough for you.



Ready to go!

[RGD.]

Again using the Palio we will do a traditional cut. Just like the first example except no table.



What I am trying to do is to just take off the cap - and nothing more.



Mission accomplished!



Notice how thin the slice is. Again if you have a bad draw you could either re-cut or grab your Henry's Tool -

[RGD.]

And lastly is the punch. Mine is made by Donatus Solingen - it contains two sizes of cutters. You simply twist the end cap to get whatever size that you need.



I grasp and cradle the cigar in my left hand, and using my thumb as a guide, position the cutter against it.



Once I get it where I want it then it's a simple twist. I normally go clockwise with slight pressure as it cuts into it. With a little practice you can feel when it goes throught the cap.



Once through the cap, a slight wiggle and the cut part simply falls right on out.





And there ya go. I'm sure everyone has a favorite cutter and technique - but those are mine.

Good luck with it all!


Ron

Great pictures and info. Thanks for the tutorial.

[Mugen910]

Originally Posted by dccraft

Great pictures and info. Thanks for the tutorial.

[68TriShield]

Thanks for posting this Ron!

[md4958]

nicely done... never seen a punch like that either

[Scottw]

Nicely done, thank you!

[gvarsity]

This would be a nice sticky in a noob or cigar basics area. I second the call for a v-cut addition as well. My particular favorite in general.