A Complete Guide on How to Cut a Cigar from Founders Cigar Company
We believe that enjoying a premium cigar should be a full experience—one that begins long before the first draw. Whether you’re relaxing at the end of a long day, celebrating a milestone, or catching up with good friends, the way you prepare your cigar matters. One of the most essential steps in the cigar ritual is the cut. It’s not just functional; it’s ceremonial.
As a veteran-owned cigar company, we’re passionate about having one of the best cigar brands on the market and helping people get the fundamentals right. Cutting your premium cigar the proper way helps ensure an even burn, a smooth draw, and the overall integrity of your smoke. So whether you’re a seasoned cigar enthusiast or new to the hobby, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to cut a cigar the right way. If you’re a more visual person, watch the How To on YouTube.
Why the Cut Matters
Before you light up, grab your favorite premium cigar, then you need to make a clean opening at the head of the cigar to allow for proper airflow. A bad cut can lead to unraveling, poor draw, or uneven burning. None of that makes for a satisfying experience. But with the right tools and a little know-how, you can make a precise cut every time.
The Anatomy of a Cigar
To understand where and how to cut, you need to know the basic parts of a cigar:
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- Head: The closed end you put in your mouth. This is the part you’ll cut.
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- Cap: A small piece of tobacco that covers the head to keep the cigar from unraveling.
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- Shoulder: The curved part where the cap meets the body.
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- Foot: The open end that you light.
Your goal is to cut just above the shoulder—removing the cap without slicing too deeply into the body.
Types of Cigar Cuts
There are several different ways to cut a cigar, and each has its pros and cons. Your choice comes down to personal preference and cigar shape. Here are the most common types:
1. Straight Cut
This is the most popular type of cut and uses a guillotine-style cutter. It makes a straight incision across the head of the cigar, offering the fullest draw.
Pros:
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- Maximizes airflow
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- Works on most cigars
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- Easy to use
Cons:
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- Requires precision to avoid overcutting
2. Punch Cut
A punch cut removes a small circle from the cap, creating a tighter draw. It works well with larger ring gauge cigars but can be too restrictive for smaller ones.
Pros:
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- Preserves the shape of the cigar
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- Less chance of unraveling
Cons:
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- Limited airflow
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- Doesn’t work well on torpedoes or figurados
3. V-Cut (or Wedge Cut)
This cut makes a V-shaped incision into the cap; making for a good draw while maintaining structural integrity.
Pros:
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- Deep draw with a unique mouthfeel
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- Reduces tar buildup
Cons:
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- Can split the cigar if not used correctly
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cut a Cigar
Let’s break down the steps using a straight cut, which is our preferred method at Founders Cigar Company.
Step 1: Select Your Cigar Cutter
Start with a clean, sharp straight cutter. Dull blades can crush or tear the cigar. We recommend investing in a quality cutter and keeping it clean. Here’s our favorite cigar cutter, it’s our Perfect Cut.
Step 2: Examine the Cigar
Look at the head of the cigar and locate the shoulder line. You’ll notice a round cap that is slightly raised. That’s your guide.
Step 3: Position the Cigar
Place the cigar into the cutter and align the blade just above the shoulder line—no more than 1/16 to 1/8 inch from the cap. You want to cut just enough to open the cigar without unraveling the wrapper.
Step 4: Make the Cut
Use a swift, confident motion to slice through the cap. A clean cut will result in a smooth, open draw and an intact wrapper.
Step 5: Inspect and Adjust
Take a cold draw. If it feels tight, you may need to widen the cut or switch to a punch or V-cut next time. If the draw is too loose or the wrapper begins to unravel, you may have cut too deeply. If you need a good lighter, we’ve got you covered with our
Palio Torcia. It’s a single flame, pre-filled butane lighter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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- Cutting too much: This can cause the cigar to unravel.
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- Cutting too little: Restricts airflow and can make drawing difficult.
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- Using a dull cutter: Leads to tearing or crushing the cigar.
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- Biting the cap: Sure, you’ve seen it in movies, but it’s not recommended.
Choosing the Right Cut for the Cigar Type
Not all cigars are created equal, and the size and shape can influence the best cut:
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- Parejos (straight-sided cigars): Work best with a straight cut.
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- Torpedoes or Belicosos: Can benefit from a V-cut or tapered straight cut.
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- Large ring gauge cigars: Often do well with a punch cut.
At Founders Cigar Company, we offer a range of premium cigars that pair well with all types of cuts. Whether you’re enjoying our Roosevelt Maduro or our Douglass Habano, each cigar is made to provide a consistent, satisfying experience from first light to final draw.
About Founders Cigar Company
We’re a veteran owned company, focused on being a premium cigar brand, built on tradition, craftsmanship, and a love for great cigars and being one of the best cigar brands. We take pride in sourcing quality tobacco, delivering consistency, and offering cigars that look as good as they smoke. When you buy cigars online from Founders, you’re not just buying a product—you’re joining a legacy.
We recently changed factories, upgraded our bands, and adjusted pricing—all to ensure our customers and dealers receive a premium cigar, from a top cigar brand, that delivers on flavor, construction, and value.
Final Thoughts
Cutting a cigar is a small action that makes a big difference. It sets the tone for your smoke and ensures you get the most out of your cigar. With the right technique and tools, you can master this simple but important ritual.
Ready to put this into practice? Buy premium cigars online from Founders Cigar Company, we’re on a mission to become one of the best cigar brands on the market with top cigars, and experience the difference a well-crafted, properly cut cigar makes. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just getting started, our selection has something for every palate.
Founders Cigar Company — Premium cigars. Veteran owned cigar company. Built for moments worth remembering.
