A cigar cutter is one of those essential accessories every aficionado owns — and often forgets about. It’s pulled out for every smoke, yet rarely cleaned or maintained. Over time, you may notice:
- The cigar cap shredding instead of slicing cleanly
- The cutter feeling stiff or jerky to open and close
- A brownish residue building up on the blades
Sound familiar? Before you toss your cutter in the bin and splash out on a new one, hold fire. A simple clean may be all that’s needed — saving you money you could be spending on more cigars.
How to Clean Your Cigar Cutter
Cleaning a cutter is quick and works on all types — from single and double guillotines to scissors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cotton swabs
- Rubbing alcohol
- Graphite lubricant
Step 1: Remove the residue
Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and gently rub the blades and all metal surfaces. You’ll see the tar and oils lift off easily. Use fresh swabs as needed until everything is clean.
Step 2: Dry the blades
Use a dry swab to remove leftover alcohol. Repeat until the blades are spotless.
Step 3: Lubricate for smooth movement
Apply a very small amount of graphite lubricant to each side of the blades. Open and close the cutter a few times — you’ll instantly feel the difference.
Step 4: Wipe away excess
Clean off any leftover lube with a fresh swab. The cutter should now move freely and slice sharply again.
For Xikar “X-type” cutters (and similar designs): Apply a drop of graphite oil at the hex screw and under the open/close button. This restores the lightning-fast spring action they’re known for.
How to Use a Cigar Cutter Properly
Even a well-maintained cutter won’t help if you don’t use it correctly. Here’s a quick guide:
- Identify the cap – The rounded end of the cigar has a line where the cap is glued. You want to cut just above that line, removing only 2–3mm.
- Position the cutter – Place the cigar in the opening, keeping it steady. Don’t push too far in.
- Make it swift – Apply firm pressure and cut quickly in one motion. A slow squeeze risks crushing the cigar.
- Check the draw – The cut should reveal a neat circle of filler tobacco, ensuring a smooth draw without unraveling.
Different cutters suit different preferences:
- Guillotine cutters – Precise and versatile for most sizes.
- V-cutters – Create a wedge cut, concentrating the smoke on the palate.
- Punch cutters – Remove a small circle, perfect for smaller cigars or those who prefer a tighter draw.
Cigar cutters don’t last forever, but with a bit of cleaning and the right technique, you can keep yours performing like new for years. Whether you prefer a classic guillotine, a punch, or a V-cut, maintenance is key.
So before you bin your trusty cutter, give it a five-minute refresh — then use the money saved to treat yourself to a few fine cigars instead.