Let’s talk Cut and Light!

So, you're kind of new to smoking cigars. You’ve found the perfect cigar you've always wanted to try. You’ve heard great things about it, and this Churchill-style cigar is exactly what you're excited to smoke. But now you’re wondering—how do you go about it without ruining the experience?

Let’s talk about cutting and lighting your cigar. If you cut your cigar the wrong way, it can ruin the draw, making it less enjoyable—or in some cases—unsmokable.

Cutting Your Cigar

Let’s start with the punch cut. Tools like the Kocent Punch are designed to poke four small holes in the cap of the cigar—each hole about the size of a toothpick. This slows down the amount of smoke you're able to draw, which some people prefer.

If that doesn’t give you the draw you’re looking for, you can move up to a regular circle punch. These can often be found built into premium cigar lighters or in multi-use cigar tools, like the enhancer kits available on Amazon. These usually come with a punch, draw enhancer, and pick—all in one. You can also find individual punch tools at most cigar shops or online.

Still not getting enough airflow? Try a V-cut. This makes a V-shaped notch in the cap and allows more smoke to pass through. You can also do a cross-cut (two V-cuts in a crisscross shape), often called a “crown cut,” to increase the draw even more.

If you’re still not satisfied, your final option is a straight cut using a guillotine cutter or single-blade cutter. Straight cutters are widely available and come in different styles, including single blade, double blade, and scissor-style. Some have a safety back to make sure you don’t cut off too much of the cap. Plastic cutters work fine, but metal ones last much longer.

I personally use several types of cutters, including single-punch tools found on the bottoms of my lighters and multi-use enhancer tools that include punches as well.

Let’s Break Down the Tools

The Kocent Punch is simple and effective. It has one center punch the size of a toothpick, plus three more arranged in a diamond shape around it. Some people enjoy the slow, controlled draw this provides.

The circle punch is another great option. Many butane cigar lighters come with one built in. Cigar tools sometimes offer both small and large circle punches that can be retracted for cleaning out loose tobacco.

The V-cut, as mentioned, cuts a V-shaped groove into the cap. This gives a better draw while still slightly restricting airflow, which some smokers like. If needed, you can make a second V-cut across the first to widen the opening.

Finally, the straight cut is the most direct approach. You’ll find many types on the market, including single- and double-blade versions. Just remember—once you cut, you can’t undo it. You can always take more off, but never put it back on.

Some all-in-one tools now offer every type of cut—punch, V-cut, straight cut—and even include a draw enhancer or pick.

Lighting Your Cigar

Now let’s talk about lighters. A quality lighter really does enhance your smoking experience. Avoid regular Zippo or Bic lighters that use petroleum-based fluid. They can leave an unpleasant taste on your cigar.

Instead, go for a butane lighter. They come in single, dual, triple, or even quad-flame options. These are excellent for toasting and lighting cigars evenly. Soft flame butane lighters are also available and work well.

Regardless of which type you choose, make sure it’s refillable and reliable. A good lighter is an essential tool in the cigar-smoking experience.

No matter which cutter or lighter you use, take your time and enjoy the art of smoking a fine cigar.

So with that, be safe—and enjoy your cigar.