What kind of cutter/punch do you use?

[TheTraveler]

Originally Posted by Don Fernando

I prefer to punch, otherwise I cut with the Palio that Mark (Conch Republican) gifted me.

Originally Posted by kayaker

Why? Just curious.

I prefer a punch as well when the cigar is within the "right" ring guage zone for me, otherwise I'll cut it with a double-blade guillotine.

I currently use a cheapo $2 punch that's easily replaced and also a $3 cheapo guillotine. The problem is that, though easily replaced, they are OFTEN replaced. I'll be getting a better quality punch and cutter ASAP.

I prefer the punch cut because in my opinion it preserves the integrity of the structure of the cap and head of the cigar more than any other cut. The problems I've run into are that too small RG cigars are difficult to punch, too large RG cigars won't smoke as well (for me) when punched, and cigars with delicate, fragile or dry wrappers crack to hell and gone when my paws get a hold of them and try to punch. In all those cases I'll use the cutter instead.