To punch or cut that is the question

[Sean]

So as thread says what do you prefer i usually prefer to cut but had a punched cigar at the weekend which i found to be a lot cleaner.

So got me thinking what do you lot prefer?

[ValeTudoGuy]

I have only ever cut, I am currently weighing up the benefits of punching and V cutting. Having taken advice from my local retailer it kind of seems that as strait cut is not broken then why fix it?
Punching would seem to be a useful option when on the move and to carry with you while out and about.
V cutting would appear to be a little more of a niche option.

Over time I will try all options and then go from there, at the moment I don't know any better than my cheap as chips plastic guillotine...it does the job.

[Puff Scotty]

Would put some search links in but I'm not sure how..
Punch or Cut has been discussed many many times on this forum..there are some interesting views to be had...

[TJCoro]

Cello? One of Off?

Would put some search links in but I'm not sure how.. Punch or Cut has been discussed many many times on this forum..there are some interesting views to be had...

But just to wet your whistle as you dig through the UKCF archives searching for those "interesting views," let me state, FTR: Los Coros prefer to punch their puros, but will resort to the cutter when;

(1) the stick is too small to punch, which rarely happens to me because as all you forum ol' timers know, I don't do pe...pe...pet...Damnit! LITTLE STICKS! or,

(2) when the puro needs to be opened up to achieve a decent draw.

And before you ask, I take the cellophane off (but don't tell Catalina Joy)!
Now off you go lad, down the archive rabbit hole!


Perro, el Perro

[cj121]

I prefer punching, but with a new Xikar cutter in the way, well, I'll have to make sure it works

[Ozcan]

Always cut mine, but to be honest i've never had a punched cigar before so cant compare. Is there a big difference?

[Simon Bolivar]

I used to cut 100% of the time, now I punch 80% of the time, especially useful when travelling, have had a punch taken off me. Never found a problem with bitter tar taste as some report. Give it a go & try yourself.

[Joncon]

I use a cheap v cutter from eBay. U can adjust the depth dependant on size to give a good draw. Do have a flip out punch on the lighter and have been meaning to try it.

[FireArm]

Tried punching a few times, wasnt for me.

Cut all the way

[Puff Scotty]

Although cutting & punching have become a part of the cigar smokers "rituals" , it wasn't always the case..it's only in this last cigar boom it's become 'important' & discussed so heavily..
I personally think it's important to remember the purpose of the action & that is to achieve the best draw possible, neither too tight or too loose..
& that's what brings me to my choice..a punch...
The reason being if a cigar is too tight after a punch (loads of sizes available) you can always cut again..but you cannot do the reverse of these actions on even the best of caps/cigars.
My Grandad had various cutters & punches but his most used item was the "pricker" he kept on his watch chain...easy, just keep stabbing the cap till the cigar draws right..
Sometimes we can make too much of a simple practice...

[Simon G]

I used to cut.
Then a friend swore by using a punch and highly recommended it.
I now punch, and don't think I'll ever cut again.

The punch allows a more controlled flow (I feel).
All personal preference I guess.
Worth a try, if you get the chance.

Regards

[Simon Bolivar]

Agree with wot Puff said. Keep meaning to get some different size punch, must get around to it.
Simon G: Don't forget torps & figarados & slim ring gauges will still need cutting, unless you don't smoke those vitolas?

[Simon G]

Apologies Si, with the exceptions you mention: for definite
(Had the odd torpedo)

Regards,

[Puff Scotty]

Agree with wot Puff said. Keep meaning to get some different size punch, must get around to it.
Simon G: Don't forget torps & figarados & slim ring gauges will still need cutting, unless you don't smoke those vitolas?

Si..look out for multi punches on lighters...I found a 5 - 7.5 - 10mm on the side of a broken cheapo lighter at a boot fair...10 mins after getting home I'd got the punch section off, a hole drilled for a little piece of sink plug chain for hanging on my keyring, & the original hinge end sharpened to a good edge..super useful tool...I nearly cried when I lost it..

[Sean]

Si..look out for multi punches on lighters...I found a 5 - 7.5 - 10mm on the side of a broken cheapo lighter at a boot fair...10 mins after getting home I'd got the punch section off, a hole drilled for a little piece of sink plug chain for hanging on my keyring, & the original hinge end sharpened to a good edge..super useful tool...I nearly cried when I lost it..

Good shout mate