Wednesday, June 25, 2008

How to Properly Cut a Cigar

First time smoking a cigar? Then it's time you learned how to cut one properly. Even if you don't want to smoke a cigar yourself it's useful to know how, in order to cut cigars for people at parties or celebrations.

Double-Guillotine Cutter Method
  1. Select the correct end of the cigar to cut. This is the end of the cigar that goes in your mouth and is called the head of a cigar. It is distinguishable by the fact that it has a cap on it. The cap is a round piece of tobacco that is stuck onto the head in order to keep the wrapper of the cigar together. The head is also usually the end closest to the logo sticker wrapped around the cigar. The opposite end of the cigar is known as the foot
  2. Identify the line where the glue sticking the cap on ends. You'll want to cut about 4 or 5 mm under this line, towards the foot of the cigar.
  3. Pick up your cigar cutter between your thumb and fore-finger using your best hand.
  4. Place the cigar into the cutter and close one eye in order to line up the cigar correctly.
  5. Keep a tight grip on the cigar with your other hand and try not to let it move until it is cut all the way through.
  6. Cut the cigar quickly in one fluid motion, with as much force as you can.


V-Cutter Method

  1. If you like, buy a V-Cutter. This will give a V shaped cut into the cigar. This increases the surface area of the exposed tobacco, thus improving the draw. However, since the cut is INTO the cigar, there is less surface are that your mouth will be in direct contact with. RESULT: better draw, but less chance of tobacco bits in your mouth.
  2. A VERY good V-Cutter will sit on a table, but is too big to carry with you. A small one is the same size as any other small cutter and can cost as little as $4.00.
  3. Cigar smokers who try both tend to like to precision, control, better draw, and yes, even the appearance of a cigar with a beautiful V cut. of a V-Cutter.
  4. A V-Cutter will NOT remove too much, which can result in the unwrapping of the cigar.

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