cut or punch

[pogodo111]

I have a normal cutter and have recently seen the punch devices. Can you use the punch device with any size cigar? I know that the cutter may not be big enough for some cigars (like the square shape ones)

 

[Proud Bear]

I use the standard double-guillotine cutter. I have punched a few cigars, and I do not care for the concentration of the smoke or the feel of the cap.

Bear

 

[RigilKent]

you can use either but torps must be cut. personally i like cutting the whole cap. hope that helps

 

[caudio51]

You can use a double punch on the larger box pressed cigars. Torps I suggest being cut but I guess you could try to punch them on the sides.

I used to punch but find I enjoy a clean cut better.

 

[terrantheman]

I use to punch years ago but now I'm all about the double guillotine never have a draw issue unless it's a shit cigar!

 

[dpricenator]

I punch first, and if its drawing too tight, I'll cut it with the double G. On larger ring cigars I use the punch with 3 over lapping punches in order to open the draw a little.

 

[vperlman]

You can double (or even triple) punch a large cigar, if you like punches. I used to use them but switched because of the build-up of tar. Also, you can buy punches in various sizes, and then match them to the appropriate cigars.

 

[thecatmac]

Cutter all the way!

 

[MichiganM]

I used to punch all the time, and never noticed anything negative effects. Some people say it builds up tar around the small hole...I'm not sure.

I fell in love with the Palio though and use that exclusively. Just got the burlwood!

 

[Headbanger]

Palio, Xikar, or SAK cutters for me. Only time I do not cut if the stick ring gage too large to fit in the cutter. Then I punch holes till draws well.

 

[CWS]

Use a cutter most of the time. Use a punch on major ring cigars and chisels.

 

[tedski]

I cut most cigars, but find a punch is just right for coronas.

 

[dpricenator]

Some people say it builds up tar around the small hole...I'm not sure.
QUOTE]

I acctually punched a Big Te Amo Churchill for the ride home yesterday and about half way through got slammed with the worst bitter taste ever. then it happend again a few draws latter. It was drawing well, but I did notice the build up for the first time. So I reached out the window with the Xikar I got from Tubaman and cut the puppy. Finished nicely.

 

[jwintosh]

never used a punch,,, always a cutter (or my teeth!!!)

 

[rick12string]

If you like a punch cutter, try the Xikar Wolf Double Punch. I bought one from my local cigar shop for $19.95. The larger of the two punches on it (42 ring gauge) makes a large hole which opens a 50 ring cigar just about as much as a double G gutter would. Check out this link to Cigar Extras.com. It has a good picture of the cutter. I’ve seen it on other sites also and you may be able to find it on sale. I also have a standard bullet punch and the cutter on that one fits inside the smaller of the two cutters on this double punch. It makes a nice size hole and may be what you’re looking for. I use double G cutters and this one. Like them both.

http://www.cigarextras.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=284

 

[dpricenator]

How strong is the magnet? I have been eyeing this for a while, but i'm afraid it won't hold and I'll lose a piece.

 

[Angry Bill]

I rarely use a punch. The only time use one is if I am not at home and the ring gauge of my cigar is too large to get into the blades of the cutter. At home, I have a Four Cutter.

To me, the punch creates a smaller area to concentrate the smoke onto my tongue. I prefer to taste the cigar in a fuller manner. JMHO

 

[rick12string]

How strong is the magnet? I have been eyeing this for a while, but i'm afraid it won't hold and I'll lose a piece.

I thought about that too at first but haven’t had any problem with it. The magnet is reasonably strong. I’m not concerned about it coming apart and losing anything.

 

[Garvey]

How strong is the magnet? I have been eyeing this for a while, but i'm afraid it won't hold and I'll lose a piece.

dpricenator --

I have the Xikar punch and I like it very much. But you cannot use it on a keychain -- I did and found myself looking for the punch because it would bump off in my car or pockets because it was dislodged by the keys.

Now I just carry it alone when I need it & don't have a problem.

 

[smokey the bear]

I always use my xikar. I don't have a great reason for it. A couple of years ago I just switched from a punch to a cutter and never went back.