CIGAR SMOKING GUIDE – HOW TO SMOKE A CIGAR

Posted: 24^th June 2025

In this article, we explore the different steps of the cigar smoking ritual, focusing on some of the most commonly used techniques for cutting and lighting cigars.

At Fine Cigars Club, we do not recommend one specific method over another. Instead, we encourage aficionados to rotate between different techniques and discover what works best. There is no right or wrong way - only personal preference and the pleasure of experimentation.​

How To Cut A Cigar – With Video Explanations

#1 The Cigar Straight Cut

First, take your cigar cutter and open the blades fully. You want the cutter to be ready for a clean, single slice. Next, hold the cigar firmly and position the cap inside the cutter. Align the blades just above the shoulder of the cigar, where the cap meets the body. Be careful not to cut too far. Once positioned, make a swift, decisive cut.

The straight cut is the most traditional and widely used method. It involves making a clean slice across the cap of the cigar, opening up the entire width of the foot for an easy draw. This cut is ideal for larger ring gauge cigars and offers a straightforward experience with plenty of smoke output. However, if done carelessly, it can cause unravelling, so precision is key.​

#2 The Cigar V Cut

To start, open your V-cutter so the blade is fully exposed. Next, take your cigar and firmly place the cap into the opening of the V-cutter. Position the blade so it will create a wedge-shaped notch right in the centre of the cap. Hold the cigar steady, then with a smooth motion, close the cutter to slice the V-notch. Avoid double cutting to prevent damaging the wrapper

Also known as the cat’s eye cut, the V cut carves a wedge-shaped notch into the cap of the cigar. It provides a concentrated, yet open draw that enhances the flavour intensity without removing too much of the wrapper. Many aficionados enjoy this cut because it balances smoke volume and flavour complexity. It works particularly well for medium to large ring gauge cigars.​

#3 The Cigar Punch Cut

Begin by opening your punch cutter to reveal the circular blade inside. Next, hold your cigar firmly and centre the punch cutter’s blade over the middle of the cigar’s cap. When aligned, gently press the cutter into the cap while rotating it in a smooth twisting motion. This will cut a small, round hole in the cap. Carefully remove the punch cutter and discard the small circle of tobacco.

The punch cut uses a circular blade to bore a small hole into the centre of the cigar cap. This method creates a tighter draw compared to the straight cut, allowing for a slower, cooler smoke that maintains the structure of the cigar. The punch works best with round-capped cigars (parejos) and is particularly popular among those who prefer a cleaner finish without loose tobacco on the lips.

Here’s a comparative table of straight cut, V cut, and punch cutting techniques for cigars, showing key pros and cons for each method.

How To Light A Cigar - With Video Explanations

#1 Lighting a Cigar with a Torch Flame

To start, make sure your torch lighter is filled with fresh butane and ignites with a steady blue flame. Adjust the flame height to your preference. Hold your cigar about an inch above the tip of the flame. Avoid letting the flame touch the cigar directly too much, as torch lighters can scorch the tobacco. Slowly rotate the cigar, toasting the foot evenly until the edges begin to blacken and you see a glowing ring. If needed, briefly touch up any sections of the foot that aren't ignited.

A torch flame lighter uses pressurized butane to create a concentrated, wind-resistant blue flame that burns extremely hot. This makes torch lighters ideal for lighting cigars quickly and evenly, especially in outdoor or breezy conditions. To properly use a torch, hold the cigar about an inch above the flame (trying to avoid touching it directly). The main advantage of the torch flame is speed and efficiency, but care must be taken not to scorch the tobacco, which can affect flavour.​

#2 Lighting a Cigar with a Soft Flame​​

Begin by striking a long match or igniting a soft flame lighter. Hold the cigar just above the soft yellow flame, letting the heat gradually warm the foot without contact. Slowly rotate the cigar, toasting the edges and centre until the leaf glows and the tip is evenly blackened. Soft flames burn at a lower temperature and allow for more control, so take your time for the best possible light.

A soft flame lighter, such as a traditional butane lighter or long wooden match, produces a broad, lower- temperature flame - usually yellow in colour. This gentler heat allows for more deliberate toasting and helps protect the cigar’s delicate flavours by minimising the risk of charring. To light with a soft flame, hold the cigar just above the flame, rotating slowly to toast the entire foot evenly, then puff gently to draw the flame in and finish the light. Matches should be chemical-free and allowed to burn off any sulfur before bringing them to the cigar. While it takes longer than a torch, the soft flame offers more control and is the preferred method for many purists lighting indoors.