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How To Cut a Cigar Without A Cutter

Nov 10th, 2023

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You know those moments when you're out and about, looking forward to a good smoke, and then it hits you — the trusty cigar cutter you reach for isn't where it should be? Maybe you left it on the counter after a last-minute touch-up, or maybe it's hiding in a jacket pocket from a previous outing. It happens to the best of us. But here's the thing: it's not the end of the world. In fact, we've got a few tricks up our sleeves. What if we told you there are clever ways to cut your cigars without that elusive cutter? Stick around because we're about to dive into some crafty solutions.


1. Pocket Knife Technique

Ideally, if you have a pocket knife on hand, you're in luck. It can be a versatile tool in the absence of a cigar cutter. Ensure it's sharp and ready. Hold the cigar securely; now, with precision, slice through the cap swiftly and evenly, right where you'd generally cut it with a cigar cutter. This method provides a clean cut, promoting a smooth draw and an even burn.

2. Pointed Tool or Scissor Method

Alternatively, a pointed tool or a pair of scissors can step in as impromptu cutters. Whether it's a paperclip, a nail, or even a key tip, these can prove surprisingly effective. When using a pointed tool, gently poke the cap to create an opening, making sure not to go too deep. If you've got scissors, use them primarily for poking, and only consider using them to cut the cigar if you're truly in a bind. More often than not, it can lead to unintended damages.

3. Utilizing Your Thumbnail

If the above two methods are not feasible, your thumbnail can come to the rescue. Gently press it against the cap and apply even pressure. Rotate the cigar as you do so, gradually creating a small groove. Once you've established a groove around the cigar, continue until it is finally separated from the rest of the cigar. This steady-handed approach may require a touch of patience, but it can yield satisfactory results. Lucky for us, unlike cigar cutters, we don't tend to leave our thumbnails at home!

4. Using Your Teeth

While not the recommended approach, in certain situations, it's possible to rely on your teeth. Gently remove the head of your cigar with a firm bite, focusing on the area where you'd typically use a cutter. Apply a steady pressure and pull away. It’s crucial to take every precaution to avoid harming the wrapper. This is a last resort, of course, as it often leads to getting bits of tobacco in your mouth during the process. However, if you find yourself in a situation where using your teeth becomes necessary, it might help to remember that for generations, countless cigar enthusiasts have embraced this time-honored technique.




For those who prefer to err on the side of caution, ensuring they always have a reliable cutter in hand, we understand your need for precision. It's a mark of a true aficionado, someone who appreciates the ritual of a well-prepared cigar. That's why we offer two exceptional cutters to complement your collection. The Xikar VX2™ V-Cut Cutter provides a distinctive V-shaped cut, while the Titan Box-Wing Cutter offers a clean, straight cut. Both crafted from durable stainless steel, they're designed to be reliable companions on your cigar journey. Because sometimes, nothing beats the perfection of a purpose-built tool.