Straight Cut, V-Cut, or Punch: The 2025 Guide — Quality, Luxury, and Affordable
Choosing a cigar cutter is not a detail: the quality of the cut influences the draw , the combustion and... the pleasure in the mouth. Between straight cut (guillotine), V- cut and punch , each solution has its advantages, its limits, and its "preferred" formats. This Atelier Atypique guide helps you decide quickly and well , whether you are aiming for a beautiful luxury object, an inexpensive but effective option, or a versatile tool for traveling.
Useful links:
1) The basics: what a good cut should do
An ideal cut:
- Cleanly opens the cigar head without fraying the wrapper.
- Respect the bound (the headdress) to prevent the cape from unrolling .
- Provides a regular draw : neither too tight (capricious combustion), nor too open (diluted heating and aromas).
- Executes in one clean gesture , without overwriting the module.
Golden rule: aim just below the shoulder of the head (on a parejo) to preserve the headdress and prevent detachment. On a torpedo or figurado , gradually trim the tip until the desired draw.
2) Straight cut (guillotine): the “universal” reference
Principle : one or two straight blades cut the head of the cigar cleanly.
Why we love it :
- Maximum versatility : works with almost all formats (Robusto, Toro, Churchill, even Torpedo if you make small cuts).
- Clean draft : large opening, plenty of air, generally even combustion.
- Availability in both low-cost and luxury versions (premium steel, finishes, smooth mechanisms).
Single blade vs. double blade
- Single blade : OK for tight budgets, but tends to push the tobacco before cutting (risk of crushing if you are not precise).
- Double blade : the benchmark for a clean, centered cut. The two blades close towards the center and cut without pulling the cape.
When to choose the straight cut
- You smoke everything: default choice .
- You like an open draw , rich in smoke.
- You want a fast , repeatable cut.
Points of attention
- Cutting too much = going beyond the cap = risk of detachment .
- On a very dry cigar, cut gently (a clean cut but without crushing).
3) V-cut: channel the aromas, protect the cape
Principle : A V-shaped blade digs a trench at the top of the head.
Strengths :
- Channeled draw : the smoke is concentrated , the mouth sometimes perceives more intensity (subjective but very popular sensation).
- Good hold of the cape : the headdress remains generally intact around the notch.
- Excellent for Robusto / Toro with strong ring (50–54).
Depth of V
- V standard : moderate notch, good compromise for the majority of modules.
- Deep V : more openness without losing the “canal” effect. Ideal for large rings (54–60).
- Risk : in a small ring (≤ 42), a V that is too deep can weaken the head (be careful with Panetelas).
When to choose the V-cut
- You like a dense , “concentrated” smoke.
- You smoke mostly 50–54 ring .
- You are looking for an alternative to the straight cut to vary the sensations.
4) Punch: discreet, clean, extremely practical when traveling
Principle : a circular blade pierces a hole in the center of the head.
Strengths :
- Zero fraying : the cape stays in place, you remove a clean disc .
- Portability : often carried as a key ring , it is the traveler 's tool.
- Consistency : Channel size dictates predictable draw (if the module is not too dense).
Punch size
- For large rings, choose a large diameter (7–9 mm).
- On small rings, a mini-punch is sufficient (5–6 mm).
- Some models are adjustable (several diameters).
Boundaries
- On Torpedo/Figurado , the punch is not very suitable.
- On a very tight module, a single hole may remain insufficient → you can cross two holes (slightly offset) to increase the draft, or switch to a straight cut .
When to choose punch
- You want a compact and practical accessory.
- You prefer straight formats (parejos) and standard to wide rings.
- You like a moderate draw, more “contained” than a straight cut.
5) What type of cut for what format?
|
Format / Location |
Recommended cut |
For what |
|---|---|---|
|
Robusto (48–52) |
Straight or V |
The straight maximizes the draw; the V provides density. |
|
Toro (50–54) |
V (standard or deep) |
Good concentration, protected cape; straight if you want more air. |
|
Churchill (47) |
Right |
Length + regular draw; V possible if wider ring. |
|
Gordo (58–60) |
Deep or straight V |
Lots of material: Deep V channels, straight airs. |
|
Panetela / Lonsdale (≤ 42) |
Specific law |
The V can be fragile; the punch may be too small. |
|
Torpedo / Figurados |
Law (progressive) |
The tip is adjusted to the desired opening. |
|
Travel / Outdoors |
Punch |
Clean, compact, discreet; works on parejos. |
6) Materials, construction, ergonomics: what really matters
Blades
- Hardened stainless steel : the standard for durability.
- Coatings (PVD, DLC): glide, resistance to micro-corrosions.
- Sharpening : A sharp blade cuts cleanly without crushing. As soon as you see micro-burrs , it's time to maintain or replace.
Mechanics
- Double guillotine blade : smooth sliding, no lateral play.
- Lock (security): some models lock closed in the pocket.
- V-cut : check the stop (constant depth) and the rigidity of the cradle.
- Punch : clean twist (rotation) mechanism and protected blade.
Getting started
- Elliptical or ergonomic shape for stable pressure.
- Large opening for large rings (≥ 60).
- Weight: too light = feeling of play; too heavy = fatigue. Aim for a balance that feels comfortable to the touch.
7) Best practices: how to cut (and keep a perfect cut)
- Humidification : a properly conditioned cigar (≈ 65–69% RH) withstands cutting better; too dry = brittle wrapper.
- Gesture : place the head just under the shoulder (parejo) → close firmly and only once .
- Cleaning : Brush off tobacco crumbs after use; a drop of isopropyl alcohol on a cloth (away from cigars!) to degrease the blades, then dry thoroughly.
- Control : If the straight cut seems too open (over-strength pull), move on to the V ; if the V is too restrictive, try a deep V or return to the straight .
- Rotation : on a varied collection, having two types (straight + V or straight + punch) covers 99% of cases.
8) Luxury vs. cheap: where to put the budget?
- Entry-level (cheap) : perfect for getting started; target correct double blade and V-cut with reliable stop. Ideal as a backup in the case.
- Mid-range : better steels, better sliding precision, cutting consistency , longevity.
- High-end (luxury) : finishes, mechanical sensations, aesthetics (fine woods, black PVD, titanium). We also buy an object that accompanies your rituals.
Pro tip: If you only take one, go for a decent quality double-blade . Then add a V-cut to vary the feel. The punch is the travel champion.
9) Maintenance & longevity
- Frequency : A cigar cutter lasts very well if the blades are cleaned every 5–10 cuts (crumbs, residual moisture).
- Sharpening/replacement : few models can be resharpened ; most are replaced when the cut “sticks”.
- Storage : avoid pockets with keys/change; prefer a pouch or your case .
- Travel : slip in a key ring punch + a mini V or compact double blade .
10) Safety, transport & regulations (useful to know)
A cigar cutter only cuts ; it cannot produce a flame . When traveling, lighters are the main issue. Airlines generally allow a lighter such as a BIC lighter or similar to be carried on your person (not in the hold), but check the airline and airport security standards . Cigar cutters are generally acceptable in the cabin, subject to local security screening.
In the car or at a party, remember to cap your V-cut / punch (or lock the double blade) to avoid any mishaps at the bottom of a pocket.
11) Common mistakes (and quick fixes)
- Cutting too low (beyond the cap) → Cap detachment : prefer a micro-cut rather than “too much at once”.
- Cutting a cigar that is too dry → Cracks : put it back for 24–48 hours at 65–69% RH.
- Deep V on small ring → Weakening : switch to a right .
- Single punch on dense module → Tight draw : two small crossed holes , or straight .
- Dull blades → Fraying : replacement or better quality model .
12) Quick recommendations by profile
- Versatile beginner : double blade (straight) + small travel punch .
- Intensity lover : V-cut (ideal deep V on 54–60).
- Traveler : key ring punch + compact double blade .
- Aesthete : luxury with noble finishes + a V-cut to alternate experiences.
- Large formats : Deep V or double blade with wide opening.
13) Atypical Workshop Selection (examples of uses)
- Double-blade cigar cutters : for clean, everyday cutting (Robusto, Toro).
- Deep V-cut : for Gordo and channeled pull lovers.
- Key ring punch : ultra-practical on the go, discreet and clean.
FAQ
Straight cut or V-cut: which one looks better?
There is no absolute "best." The straight cut aerates more (abundant smoke, open combustion). The V-cut channels the smoke and can give a perception of increased intensity . Test both on your usual cigars.
Punching a Torpedo, is it possible?
Not recommended: the tip is too narrow and conical. Better to use a progressive straight cut (small cuts until the desired draw).
Double blade essential?
Not essential, but highly recommended : it cuts centered and clean, where a simple blade can crush the tobacco.
Does the V-cut damage the cape?
On the contrary, it protects the cap well since it creates a notch without cutting into the entire circumference. On small rings , avoid a V that is too deep .
How do I know if I've cut too much?
If the headpiece disappears and the cape begins to unfurl , you've gone too low. In the future, cut just below the shoulder , and prefer two small cuts to one huge one .
What should I pack in my travel kit?
A key ring punch , a compact double blade , a suitable lighter (check safety standards ), and a case . For lighting, avoid windy surfaces; a BIC lighter may be sufficient as a backup.
