Making the Cut: Punch Cut
We’re back at it this week with the second installment of the Making the Cut series, where we’re breaking down the top cigar cutting styles, and answering common questions around cutting cigars. That way, any and every smoke session you have will always make the cut.
Today’s Making the Cut topic: Punch Cut. Is it even a cut, technically? That’s for you to judge. Macanudo Brand Ambassador, Laurel Tilley, gives us a step-by-step tutorial on how to make the perfect Punch Cut below.
What is a punch cut?
A cigar punch cutter is used to push, or punch, a small cylindrical hole through the head or cap of your cigar. It’s even called a bullet cutter in some circles.
How do punch cutters work?
When you’d compare another cut, like a guillotine or scissor cut, to a punch cut, you’ll experience an influx of flavor and heat intensity with a punch cut.
Why? It’s all about the surface area. When you draw smoke through a smaller, more concentrated opening, you’ll have a tighter draw with a little more umph behind each puff.
Pro tip: If you like punch cuts but want less intensity when drawing, you can punch the cap of a cigar with a larger ring gauge a couple of times.
How to punch cut a cigar
Never used a punch cutter before? No worries. We’ve compiled some easy-to-follow steps on how to punch cut a cigar.
Step #1:
Open the punch cutter to reveal your blade.
Step #2:
Center the blade over the middle of your cigar’s cap.
Step #3:
Gently twist the cutter into the cap of your cigar. Remember, don’t just push the blade into the cap.
Step #4:
Pull out your punch cutter and discard the excess tobacco.
Is it better to punch or cut a cigar?
If you’re trying to decide whether to put a standard cut on your cigar or punch cut it, here’s a few things to think about.
- If you smoke oily cigars or if you have a tendency to leave a lot of saliva on your cigars, a punch cut may not be the best option as your cigar’s draw can become plugged or goopy.
- If your cigar is too dry and needs to be re-humidified, a punch cutter could potentially crack the cap and damage the cigar.
- Punch cutters have issues cutting torpedo-shaped cigars or cigars that taper at the head. If you enjoy torpedoes and belicosos, you may want to stick with a straight cutter.
The best rated punch cutters
Explore some of the internet’s favorite punch cutters and bullet cutters below.
#1: Lotus Cyclops 11mm Punch Cutter
Price: $27
Features:
- Included key ring
- 11mm round punch
- Self-cleaning
- Limited lifetime warranty
#2: Xikar 009 Punch Cutter
Price: $55
Features:
- Retractable blade
- Self-cleaning
- Key ring included
- Durable and stylish
#3: Raging Bull Punch Cutter
Price: $5
Features:
- Pop off cap blade
- Attached key ring
- Durable, rugged design
- Assorted colors
Do you like Punch Cuts on your cigars? Let us know!