There are many good times and places to enjoy a cigar. It could be alongside a celebratory drink, at a wedding or even just after a long day at work. But occasionally, just as you're getting ready to cut your cigar, there comes a horrible realization: you don't have your favorite cigar cutter with you. 

So what do you do? You improvise, of course. 

While nothing beats the clean cut that a good cigar cutter can give, this isn't always going to be an option. Luckily, there are several ways to cut a cigar without a cutter — some easier than others, but all viable options. 

Let's take a look at what cigar cutting is, why it's necessary and some great cutting methods for when you do not have a cigar cutter. 

What Does It Mean to Cut a Cigar?

You've probably heard about cutting a cigar, but if you've never done it yourself, you may not know exactly what this means. Cutting involves snipping the end of the cigar before you smoke it.

The end, known as the cap, consists of a small, compacted piece of tobacco, and it creates a seal. Cutting your cigar can either involve slicing the end off or cutting directly into the cap to make a small hole. 

Why Does a Cigar Need to be Cut?

If your cigar comes with a cap, you won't be able to smoke it until it's cut, as the cap will prevent any airflow. By cutting it, you remove that blockage and allow air to flow from the foot of the cigar — the end you light — to the head. 

But why don't cigars come pre-cut or without a cap?

There are a few reasons why manufacturers typically choose not to do this. Most notably, a cigar with a cap will hold its construction better than one without, helping the cigar keep its shape before it's smoked. 

There are several ways to cut a cigar, each delivering a slightly different draw and flavor, and each cut can vary in size. All of these variations give you the freedom to find your own favorite style of cut. Plus, you may also need to cut the cigar further as you smoke it to adjust the draw. 

Today, you can buy pre-cut cigars, but many smokers prefer cigars that you have to cut yourself. 

The Different Types of Cigar Cuts

Just like there's more than one way to cook your steak, there are also several cutting styles you can choose for your cigar. 

Straight Cuts

The straight cut is arguably the simplest option. Also known as the guillotine cut, it's best performed with a guillotine cutter and involves a straight slice down the cap to remove the end. 

To get a straight cut with a guillotine cutter, place the head end of the cigar into your cutter and cut around two millimeters off the cap. If you slice too much off, you risk the cigar unraveling, so it's better to clip too little and cut again than it is to trim too much.

V-Cuts

Another popular option is the V-Cut, also called the wedge cut. This method requires you to cut a V-shaped wedge out of the cigar head, which can take some time to master. The best way to clip your cigar with a wedge cut is by using either a modern V-cutter. 

By creating a cut that leaves a smaller opening in the cap, a V-cut can help you enjoy a more focused draw that can enhance the flavor. How deep you want your cut and whether you opt for a second cut to create a crown cut is entirely up to you.

Punch Cuts

The punch cut is also a common style for many cigar enthusiasts. This style isn't so much of a cutting action as it is a punching action. Punch a hole into the center of the cap end using a punch cutter. If needed, rotate the punch slightly, and then clear any debris created. This style of cut gives you more control over your smoking experience thanks to the tight draw created by the small hole.

If you're yet to find your preferred style of cut, some cutters give you the flexibility to cut your cigar in several ways, allowing you to experiment and find your favorite method.

Do You Need a Cigar Cutter?

While some purists might say you need a cigar cutter to smoke a cigar, it isn't absolutely necessary. Having said that, a cigar cutter has been designed to give you the best cutting experience, meaning this should always be the preferred option.

There are other methods you can use if you don't have a cutter nearby. The problem with these other methods is that there's a larger margin for error, which can seriously affect your smoking experience. 

Methods of Cutting a Cigar Without a Cutter

There may be times when you just want to enjoy a cigar, but don't have your trusty cutter on hand. Fortunately, no matter where you are or what tools you have access to, there's almost always a way for you to cut your cigar. 

Here are some ways to cut a cigar without a cutter.

1. A Sharp Knife

Often considered the best way to cut a cigar without a cutter, using a sharp knife can give you a good cut. To prevent any flavor tainting, always make sure your knife is clean before you use it to cut your cigar. 

The simplest method of cutting a cigar with a pocket knife requires you to press the blade firmly against the cap. As you increase the pressure, rotate the cigar until the cap end has been sliced off. This will give you a clean, straight cut on your cigar. 

Alternatively, you can get a V-cut using a knife, too. Angle your knife toward the center of the cigar cap and use a sawing motion, starting slightly to one side of the cap's center. Then, cut again at the opposite side of the center and at the necessary angle for your two cuts to meet. Clear the debris before smoking. It's worth noting that using a knife for a V-Cut is more complicated than a simple straight cut.

For the best results, use a smaller option such as a pocket or paring knife. 

2. Scissors

If you do not have a sharp knife handy, then scissors can make a great makeshift cigar cutter. For a clean, straight cut, simply place your cigar cap between the blades and snip with confidence to avoid any fraying of the wrapper. 

To avoid damaging the cigar, it is important that your scissors are sharp and that you don't cut too far down the head. 

3. A Pointed Object

Using a pointed object like a pen or a toothpick as a makeshift cigar punch, you can create a punch cut for your cigar. The main thing is that your implement is clean and pointed.

Take your chosen implement and, just like with the punch cutter, punch a hole into the center of the cigar cap. You may need to rotate the cigar slightly to create a good punch. 

Remove your punch and clean away any debris from the hole. Start slow, as you can always go back in with your makeshift cigar punch to make the hole bigger. Bear in mind that you may need to punch several times if you’re using a smaller object like a pin.

4. Pinch and Twist

This method works better for cigars with a softer cap. Holding the cigar cap between your forefinger and thumb, gently pinch and twist until the cap comes off.

Some people shape the cap into a rough square first by pinching it, rotating the cigar 90 degrees, and then pinching again to make it easier to twist off.

5. Your Thumbnail

If you're worried about getting the pinch and twist method wrong, you can use your thumbnail instead. Gently pinch the cap of your cigar and dig in using your nail. Do this around the circumference of the cap before gently tearing it off. Take your time with this method, and be careful not to tear the cigar wrapping, as this can cause it to unravel. 

6. Your Teeth

We do not recommend this method, but if all else fails, using your teeth to cut your cigar is an option, too. 

Use your front teeth to slowly bite into the cigar cap, taking care not to damage the cigar's wrapper. You can either carefully bite through until the cap comes off, or you can peel it off with your fingertips once you've made an opening.

This is probably the least enjoyable method of cutting and the one most likely to cause a mess and damage the cigar. You should also know that it's often considered bad form to bite your cigar in company. All of this can ruin the whole experience, which is why it's advised to only bite your cigar as a last resort. 

Safety and Hygiene Tips For Cutting a Cigar Without a Cutter

If you're going to cut your cigar without using a cutter, doing so safely and hygienically is important. 

The first rule that you should follow is to always use clean tools. Using a tool that has been dirtied can contaminate your cigar, preventing you from enjoying the cigar's flavors to their fullest extent. You should also clean your hands before handling your cigar. 

When cutting your cigar with sharp tools, such as a knife or scissors, take your time and be careful not to cut yourself. Before cutting, make sure you've considered the placement of your hands and avoid putting yourself at risk.

Finally, once you've made your cut, blow away any debris. This will stop loose tobacco from being inhaled, which can quickly ruin the first draw of your cigar. 

Common Cigar Cutting Mistakes

Regardless of how you choose to cut your cigar, it's important that you cut it well. Some mistakes can affect the flavor and overall smoking experience, while others can render the cigar useless. 

Some of the most common mistakes that are made include:

• Cutting too much off the cap: If you cut too much of the cigar cap off, this can cause the cigar to unravel. This most commonly occurs when making a guillotine cut, and can easily happen regardless of the cutting tools you use. To avoid this, line up your cigar carefully before cutting slightly above the line at the end of the cap. 
• Not clipping the cap at all: Whether it's because of a lack of knowledge or confidence, not cutting a cigar with a cap will always cause problems. Without that necessary cut, you won't be able to draw air through your cigar. 
• Cutting at a bad angle: Cutting your cigar at a poor angle can cause a poor or uneven burn. For guillotine cuts, make sure you cut straight down. If you're going for a V-cut, make sure the two cuts that form the wedge are of an equal size, depth and angle.

Why a Cigar Cutter Is the Best Method

While there are many methods that are effective for cutting your cigar, using a cigar cutter is the undisputed winner. 

Designed specifically for this task, a good cigar cutter can: 

• Make every cut simple: Cigar cutters are purpose-built to provide a good cut. You're unlikely to find an easier way to cut your cigar. 
• Deliver a better smoking experience: By getting the exact cut you want, you can enjoy your cigar in your preferred style. 
• Enhance the draw: Getting a clean cut on your cigar allows the air to flow through it properly and supports a consistent burn. 
• Prevent damage: By making it effortless to get a clean cut of the depth you want, your cigar is less likely to unravel due to structural damage. 

Whatever your preferred cutting style is, cigar aficionados agree you need a cigar cutter for the best all-around smoking experience.

Find the Perfect Cigar Cutter for You

At Corona Cigar Co., we have a range of cigar cutters available in various styles, giving you plenty of freedom to find your perfect cut. Whatever your preferences, we can help you choose the right cigar cutters for your needs. 

Whether you prefer a double-bladed guillotine cutter, a contemporary punch cutter or even an all-in-one cutter that gives you complete flexibility, we're confident that you'll find your perfect option with us. We also offer a wide variety of premium cigars at great prices.

Browse quality cigar cutters on our site today!