Greetings, fellow cigar enthusiasts! Today, we want to discuss the fine art of cutting a cigar with a straight cutter.
As we all know, a good cigar is meant to be savored slowly. And proper cutting is essential to ensure an even burn and optimal flavor.
However, cutting a cigar can be daunting, especially for beginners.
Fear not; we are here to guide you through the process step-by-step. So, you can enjoy your cigars like true connoisseurs.
So sit back, relax, and dive into the world of cigar cutting with a straight cutter.
What is a Straight or Guillotine Cutter
A straight cutter, or so-called guillotine cutter, is a popular choice among many other cigar-cutting techniques.
It typically features a single straight blade that makes a straight cut across the cap of the cigar. This allows for a smooth and even draw when smoking.
This cutter may have two straight blades for a cleaner and more precise cut.
Choosing the Right Straight Cutter
There are several factors to consider when choosing a straight cutter.
This includes the cigar’s size, the blades’ quality, and the cutter’s design.
Selecting a cutter that fits comfortably in your hand and feels sturdy and well-constructed is essential.
A sharp blade is also essential to ensure a clean cut that doesn’t crush or damage the cigar.
So you end up with tiny bits in your mouth; nobody wants that!
Some straight cutters also come with additional features, such as single or double blades or a locking mechanism to keep the blades closed when not in use.
These features can add convenience and ease of use to the cutting process.
Ultimately, the best straight cutter suits your personal preferences and needs.
Choosing a good cigar cutter, whether a basic or fancy model, is an intelligent investment to enhance your cigar-smoking experience.
Some popular brands for quality and affordable cigar straight or guillotine cutters are Xikar, Colibri, Davidoff, and Palio.
Other options include Boveda, Vertigo, and Lotus.
Preparations and Making the Cut with Straight Cutter
Some cigar smokers indeed have their own rituals when preparing the cap before making a cut.
One common practice is to gently wet the cap with a bit of saliva.
This is believed to help hold the wrapper in place and prevent it from unraveling.
Others may moisten the cap with a damp cloth or even a bit of rum or whiskey.
However, it’s important to note that excessive moisture can cause the wrapper to become too loose, affecting the draw and the enjoyment.
Ultimately, whether or not to moisten the cap is a matter of personal preference.
Some smokers swear by it, while others prefer a dry cut. The most important thing is to handle the cigar carefully and make a clean, precise cut that allows for a smooth and even draw.
Before making the perfect straight cut on your cigar, you must prepare it properly. Here are some steps to follow:
Select Your Cigar
Choose a cigar that you want to smoke and scrutinize it.
Look for any imperfections, such as cracks or soft spots, which could affect the quality of the smoke.
Determine the Cap
The cap is the rounded, closed end of the cigar that you’ll be cutting.
Look for the line where the cap meets the cigar’s wrapper leaf.
Position the Cigar
Hold the cigar firmly between your thumb and index finger, ensuring it’s stable and secure.
Identify the Sweet Spot
The sweet spot is the point on the cap where you want to make your cut.
This is usually about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the end of the cap. But it can vary depending on the size and shape of the cigar.
Make the Cut with the Straight or Guillotine Cutter
With the straight cutter, line up the blades with the sweet spot and press down firmly.
Don’t rush the cut, and be sure to apply even pressure to avoid crushing the cigar.
Read More: Punch Cut vs. Guillotine Cut vs. V-Cut
Wrapping It Up
In conclusion, mastering the art of the straight cut is an essential skill for any cigar enthusiast.
With the right cutter and proper technique, you are bound to have an impeccable experience.
As Eddie Sahakian from Davidoff of London says, “If you start the journey on the right foot, we always hope you’ll arrive at the right destination.”
So go ahead, grab your favorite cigar, and put your new skills to the test.
With practice and patience, you’ll soon be able to make a perfectly straight cut every time. Cheers!
