What is the best way to cut your cigar?

Monday, November 29 1999

Q. Do you favor the "V" cut, the "punch" or the "double blade cutter?"
- Pat in Whitehouse Station, NJ

A. I wouldn't say there is a "best way" since so much about smoking premium cigars is personal preference. It's really about what works best for you. Personally, I think the most effective cut is the cut from a double blade guillotine since it exposes a good portion of the head. This allows the smoke to pass more freely through the cigar, plus it can be used for just about any shape cigar.

I've tried 'em all: V-cutters for figurados, punch cutters, scissors, even my teeth (out of desperation), and I always go back to the double blade.