8 Best Cigar Cutters: Smooth Cuts For All Use Cases

Chris, Chief Editor

Updated Nov 7, 2023

Human experts carefully evaluate our content

A cigar cutter is a specialized cutting tool designed to cleanly and precisely slice off the cap of a cigar.

From the traditional guillotine cutters to the more niche V-cutters, the market offers a plethora of options, each with its unique attributes. The distinction between various cigar cutters lies primarily in their blade quality, construction, ergonomics, and cutting mechanism. There’s a big difference between a sharp blade that easily slices through a cigar and those you get for free when shopping for cigars online.

I’ve had the fortune of testing and experiencing the difference for myself, and my best advice is to invest in a quality cutter. It will make your cigar-smoking experience so much more enjoyable and you’ll actually feel the difference. You also avoid the risk of unraveling the cigar wrapper with a poor cut, forcing you to throw away an otherwise perfect and expensive cigar.

Among the hundreds of the best cigar cutter options available, a few stand out for their exceptional build quality, ease of use, and continuous, long-lasting performance:

1. Xikar XO Cutter: Precise and sharp cuts with a unique planetary gear system, a favorite among seasoned smokers.
2. Colibri V-Cut: A classic cigar cutter that promises an easy-to-use and clean cut for various cigar sizes.
3. Xikar X8 Cutter: This guillotine cutter is known for its consistent and flawless cuts time after time.
4. Colibri Quasar Desk Cutter: A luxurious desktop cutter with both V-Cut and S-Cut options.
5. S.T. Dupont Maxijet Cutter: This cutter is the pinnacle amongst luxury cigar cutters.

The above cutters are exemplary in their own right and the market is teeming with other cigar cutters for specific cases, which we’ll discuss below.

1. Sharpest Cigar Cutter: Xikar XO Cutter

Description: The Xikar XO Cutter is a top-tier cigar cutter renowned for its precision and efficiency. As one of the best cigar cutters in the market, the Xikar XO Cutter stands out for its unique design and unparalleled performance. The cutter’s planetary gear system provides even pressure distribution for a flawless cut every time. This cutter elevates the ritual of cigar smoking; don’t be surprised if it gets borrowed a lot in social settings.

Quality & Construction: The Xikar XO Cutter comes with Rockwell-graded stainless steel blades. These sharp blades guarantee a clean and precise cut, preserving the integrity of the cigar and offering a smooth smoking experience. Crafted with an aluminum body, the Xikar XO Cutter is built to last. Its planetary gear system not only offers even pressure distribution but also adds to its longevity, making it a reliable tool for extended use. Designed with the user in mind, the cutter features a button between the wings. This feature easily unlocks and locks the cutter for a comfortable grip and effortless operation.

Availability: The Xikar XO Cutter is available on Amazon and other leading online retailers. The cutter with wooden detail retails at $169 and the Aluminium variants start at $109. While the price may vary based on the seller, it’s an investment that cigar aficionados find worthwhile.

Pros:

• Precision-cut with sharp blades
• Durable aluminum construction
• Ergonomic design for comfortable use
• Planetary gear system for even pressure
• Excellent brand reputation

Cons:

• Premium price point
• Advanced for beginner cigar smokers

Recommendation: The Xikar XO Cutter is best for sharp and clean cuts. It’s ideal for serious cigar enthusiasts who prioritize precision, control, and quality.

2. Best V-Cutter: Colibri V-Cut

Description: The Colibri V-Cut is a classic cigar preparation tool that has regained popularity as enthusiasts delve into new flavor profiles and blends. This cigar cutter V-Cut fits snugly in your hand with a comfortable grip. The brand is known for its stainless steel blades that are spring-loaded and purposefully designed with an acute and deep angle cut. This design penetrates up to 7mm into the cigar cap for a rich and robust draw. Whether you’re enjoying a large 60+ ring gauge cigar or a torpedo, the V-Cut works on both with a clean cut every time.

Quality & Construction: The Colibri V-Cut has a stainless steel blade that remains sharp and efficient. Its purposeful design ensures a clean cut. The cutter is contoured for both beauty and functionality. The spring-loaded stainless steel blade is built for longevity and consistent performance, designed with the user in mind for a smooth and effortless cut. It’s specifically recommended for beginners since you’ll never cut deeper than what the cutter allows, making it easy to achieve excellent cuts.

Availability: The Colibri V-Cut is priced at $49 and comes in various colors, including Black, Red, Gold, and Rose Gold (picture above). It can be purchased directly from the Colibri website and comes with a 2-year warranty or Amazon.

Pros:

• Deep and clean cut suitable for large 60+ ring gauge cigars and torpedos.
• Durable stainless steel blade.
• Ergonomic design for a comfortable grip.
• 2-year warranty.

Cons:

• Might be considered pricey for some users.

Recommendation: Colibri V-Cut is the best v-cutter for beginners and seasoned cigar smokers who value a deep and clean V-cut.

3. Best Guillotine Cigar Cutter: Xikar X8 Cutter

Description: Xikar X8 Cutter is a guillotine cigar cutter that effortlessly slices through cigar caps. Xikar has crafted the X8 Cutter as the ultimate tool for cigar aficionados. The main advantage of this cutter is its cutting consistency without having to worry about crushed or uneven cuts.

Quality & Construction: The X8 Cutter is equipped with hardened stainless steel blades that maintain their edge even with frequent use. Durability is at the forefront of the X8’s design with a fiberglass nylon body compact design complemented by a smooth movement of the double guillotine blades. The cutter’s contoured body and oversized finger holes provide a comfortable grip for easy handling and a reduced risk of mishaps.

Availability: The Xikar X8 Cutter is available for purchase at a price of $45, found on the official Xikar website, as well as other online retailers such as Amazon.

Pros:

• Razor-sharp stainless steel blades.
• Durable fiberglass nylon body.
• Ergonomic design for comfortable use.
• Suitable for both beginners and seasoned cigar enthusiasts.
• Backed by Xikar’s limited lifetime warranty.

Cons:

• Might be on the pricier side for some users.
• Limited color options.

Recommendation: Xikar X8 Cutter is the best guillotine cigar cutter for precision and durability.

4. Best Table Top Cigar Cutter: Colibri Quasar 2 in 1 Desk Cutter

Description: The Colibri Quasar 2-in-1 Desk Cutter is a fusion of the brand’s renowned V-Cut and S-Cut cigar cutters, presented in a premium desktop/tabletop design. By simply pressing down on the Quasar’s top peak, the cutting unit is activated, revealing both blades simultaneously. The V-Cut side offers a precise wedge cut as deep as 7mm on a 60-ring. The straight cut delivers a sharp, clean cut for cigars up to a 70-ring.

Quality & Construction: The cutter boasts stainless steel blades that guarantee a clean and precise cut every time. Whether opting for a V-cut or a straight cut, the blades ensure a smooth and efficient cut. The Colibri Quasar is constructed with a robust all-metal body, and the top peak operates on oiled quad pistons for smooth action. The cutter’s base is lined with a rubber gasket to provide stability during use and prevent any potential damage to surfaces. A twist cap at the bottom allows for easy retrieval and disposal of cigar clippings.

Availability: Colibri Quasar is priced at $150 and is available for purchase on the official Colibri website as well as on Amazon. It comes in various colors, including black, silver, gunmetal, red, and navy.

Pros:

• Dual cutting options (V-Cut and S-Cut) in one device.
• Sturdy all-metal construction.
• Smooth operation with oiled quad-pistons.
• Non-slip rubber base for stability.
• Easy disposal system for cigar clippings.

Cons:

• The weight is not suitable for travel or portability.

Recommendation: The Colibri Quasar is the best tabletop cigar cutter for heavy and frequent use, a perfect addition to any desk or tabletop.

5. Best Luxury Cigar Cutter: S.T. Dupont Maxijet Cutter

Description: S.T. Dupont Maxijet Cutter is a luxury cigar cutter, with S.T. Dupont known for its rich heritage dating back to 1872 and celebrated for top-tier cigar accessories. The Maxijet Cutter, adorned with a chrome finish, signifies elegance and sophistication in social settings. The cigar cutter’s primary allure lies in its ability to deliver a perfect cut consistently.

Quality & Construction: The cutter comes with extremely sharp stainless steel blades designed for precise cuts and an impeccable draw for the cigars it cuts. With a tradition of crafting luxury items, S.T. Dupont showcases a premium design and construction with the added chrome finish for a harmonious blend of aesthetics and utility. The cutter features a spring-loaded mechanism for a smooth operation and it’s crafted to fit comfortably in your hand. What makes the Maxijet stand out is how you use your entire palm and hand to squeeze the cut instead of using your fingers.

Availability: The S.T. Dupont Maxijet Cutter is priced at $169 retail and can be bought from the official S.T. Dupont website and other vendors such as Wheelers Luxury Gifts. It’s surprisingly affordable for being a product from S.T. Dupont.

Pros:

• Stainless steel blades for an impeccable cut.
• Luxurious chrome finish.
• Durable construction for lasting use.
• Spring-loaded mechanism for user-friendly operation.
• Renowned brand legacy for quality and trust.

Cons:

• Tripple the price than other cigar cutters made for the same task

Recommendation: S.T. Dupont Maxijet Cutter is the best luxury cigar cutter ideal as a personal treasure or a gift.

6. Best Cigar Scissors: Xikar Mtx Multi-tool Cigar Scissors Chrome

Description: Xikar’s MTX multi-tool is a cigar scissor combining five essential functions into a single, compact design. This isn’t merely a pair of scissors; it’s a holistic cigar from Xikar, a brand synonymous with precision and quality. The standout feature of this cutter is its multifaceted utility.

Quality & Construction: Crafted with stainless steel, the blades of the cigar scissor make a seamless, satisfying, and smooth cut every time for the perfect cut. More than just a cutter, this multi-tool includes screwdrivers and a bottle opener, all within a foldable, compact body. It’s designed with portability in mind and is perfect for keychain carry.

Availability: Retailing at $69, the Xikar MTX cigar scissor is available on the Xikar website and Amazon. There is a variant with a sleek black finish that adds a touch of luxury if you don’t want to go all chrome.

Pros:

• Five-in-one design for multifunctional use.
• Stainless steel blades for precise cuts.
• Designed for portability, perfect for keychain carry.
• Built to last with a robust construction.
• Backed by XIKAR’s limited lifetime warranty.

Cons:

• The multi-tool design might not appeal to some.

Recommendation: The Xikar MTX Multi-tool is the best cigar scissor ideal for versatility.

7. Best Cigar Punch: Xikar 9mm Punch

Description: The Xikar 9mm cigar punch is a modern cigar accessory that seamlessly combines functionality with portability. The main advantage of this punch is its razor-sharp 9mm blade, which delivers a precise “cut” or rather a hole in the cap of the cigar.

Quality & Construction: Xikar 9mm punch is equipped with a stainless steel circular blade and high-quality materials. Simply pull the body apart to expose the blade, punch your cigar, and then push the body back together to release any loose tobacco. Its compact design makes it a long-lasting companion, and the inclusion of a key ring is a nice addition to always have the punch within reach.

Availability: Xikar 9mm cigar punch is priced at $69 and can be purchased directly from Xikar or Amazon. The punch comes in a variety of sleek black or silver finish.

Pros:

• Razor-sharp 9mm stainless steel blade for a precise cut.
• Compact and durable design.
• Pull-out mechanism for easy use.
• Comes with a key ring for convenience.
• Backed by XIKAR’s limited lifetime warranty.

Cons:

• Easily replacable with a cigar ligher and cutter combo.
• Not be the best choice for tightly wrapped cigars that restrict airflow

Recommendation: Xikar 9mm cigar punch is the best dedicated cigar puncher.

8. Best Cigar Cutter and Lighter Set on Amazon: Haillai Triple Jet

Description: Haillai triple jet flame lighter is a comprehensive yet affordable cigar set including both a lighter and a cutter. It’s not a premium cigar accessory kit but gets the job done for a small price, ideal for beginner who are just getting into smoking cigars and need the basic tools.

Quality & Construction: The cutter is crafted from carbon steel with a decently sharp guillotine cutter. The lighter sits nicely in the hand and the safety cover is manually opened. Overall, the kit is comfortable and easy to use.

Availability: The Haillai lighter and cutter Set is available on Amazon at a cheap price tag of $19 for the entire set.

Pros:

• Triple jet flame for a powerful and consistent light.
• Durable steel cutter.
• Refillable lighter with adjustable flame size.
• Perfect for gifting.

Cons:

• Some users might prefer separate tools rather than a combined set.

Recommendation: The Haillai lighter and cutter Set is the best affordable cigar cutter and lighter combo on Amazon.

What should you consider while choosing the best cigar cutter

The primary things to consider while choosing the best cigar cutter are blade quality, ergonomic design, material composition, cutting mechanism, and portability together with cigar lighters.

Blade Quality: The essence of a cigar cutter lies in its blade for a clean and precise cut. Stainless steel blades are preferred due to their durability and resistance to rust. A dull blade damages a cigar, leading to an uneven burn and a compromised smoking experience.

Ergonomic Design: An ergonomic shape provides a comfortable grip for better control and precision when cutting, reducing the risk of mishandling.

Material Composition: Stainless steel is a popular choice and found in almost all cigar cutter as it’s known for strength and resistance to wear. Premium cutters like the Xikar XO cutter may incorporate materials like wood for aesthetic appeal.

Cutting Mechanism: Cigar cutters come in various mechanisms, from guillotine (single or double blade) to punch cutters. The choice depends on personal preference and the type of cigar being smoked. For instance, a guillotine cutter is versatile and can handle most cigar sizes, while a punch cutter creates a small hole, ideal for dry cigars.

Portability: A cigar smoker should consider a cigar cutter’s portability if they enjoy a cigar on the go or heavily network across the globe. A compact and lightweight cutter should be easy to carry, whether you’re at a cigar lounge or a golf course.

What are the best types of cigar cutters?

The best types of cigar cutters feature stainless steel blades, the preferred choice for cigar cutters. Besides the blade, the best type of cigar cutter depends on personal preference and use case scenarios. Guillotine cutters are simple, effective, and usable for all types of cigar shapes and sizes. Punch cutters are great for a small, concentrated draw, while V-cutters create a unique cut with superior useability.

What is the difference between cigar punch vs cutter?

A cigar punch creates a small, circular hole in the cap of the cigar. The main benefits of using a cigar punch include:

1. Minimal Damage: Punching a cigar causes minimal damage to the cap, keeping the wrapper intact. This prevents the cigar from unraveling and ensures a clean draw.

2. Concentrated Draw: The small hole created by a punch concentrates the smoke for a more focused and intense flavor experience. It’s favored by those who enjoy a rich and robust taste.

3. Portable: Cigar punches are typically small and easy to carry.

Cigar cutters come in various styles, including guillotine, V-cut, and straight-cut. The main benefits of using a cigar cutter include:

1. Versatility: Cigar cutters offer versatility, allowing smokers to choose the type of cut they prefer. A guillotine cutter provides a straight cut, a V-cutter offers a unique V-shaped cut, and a straight-cut cutter provides a classic, even cut.

2. Control: With a cigar cutter, you have more control over the size of the cut for a customize smoking experience based on the cigar’s ring gauge and your preferences.

3. Wide Draw: Depending on the type of cutter used, a cigar cutter can provide a wider draw, suitable for a smoother and milder smoking experience.

Do you need a cigar cutter?

Yes, you need a cigar cutter and here’s why:

Avoids Damage to the Cigar: A cigar cutter provides a precise and even cut to the cigar’s cap. An uneven cut leads to uneven burning and a far less enjoyable smoke. Using improvised cutting methods, such as biting or using a knife, often damages the cigar’s wrapper or the filler tobacco. A cigar cutter is specifically designed to prevent such damage. This means you won’t risk tearing or unraveling the cigar, which ruins the smoking experience.

Consistency Matters: A cigar cutter ensures consistency to achieve the same quality cut every time. This is especially important if you have a collection of premium cigars to get the best out of each one.

Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond functionality, a well-cut cigar also looks aesthetically pleasing and is a joy to fiddle around with when not in use or in conversations.

Can I use any cigar cutter for all types of cigars?

Only a guillotine-type cutter is suitable for all types of cigars, as they have the capacity for a wide range of sizes, from petite coronas to large churchills. A guillotine cutter can handle this diversity effortlessly with its open-jaw design, hence why it’s our number one recommendation.

How to use a cigar cutter?

Using a cigar cutter is a straightforward process for a clean and precise cut of your cigars. Here are a few simple steps to follow:

1. Inspect Your Cutter: Make sure your cutter is clean, in good condition, and has a sharp blade (all new cutters are sharp from the factory).
2. Prepare Your Cigar: Hold your cigar firmly to prevent any twisting or cracking during the cutting process.
3. Identify the Cap: Locate the cap of the cigar. This is the rounded, closed-end, and it’s the part you’ll be cutting.
4. Position the Cutter: Place the cigar’s cap gently into the cutter’s opening, centered and aligned with the blade.
5. Make the Cut: With a swift and decisive motion, squeeze the cutter’s handles together. This will cleanly cut the cap, allowing for a smooth draw when you smoke.
6. Inspect the Cut: After cutting, examine the cigar and see if it is clean and evenly cut. If you see any loose tobacco visible, it may indicate a jagged or incomplete cut. Time to buy a better-quality cutter!