How To Smoke a Cigar: A Beginner’s Step-By-Step Guide

Learn the right way to cut, light, and enjoy a cigar — without looking like a rookie.

There’s something timeless and refined about smoking a cigar — but if you’re new to it, the process can seem a little intimidating. Do you inhale? How do you light it? What’s the proper etiquette?

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to smoke a cigar, step by step, with no guesswork. Whether you’re preparing for a celebration or simply exploring the world of cigars, this article will help you enjoy the ritual with confidence.

1. Start with the Right Cigar

Before anything else, choose a cigar that suits your level of experience. For beginners, look for a mild to medium-bodied cigar. Ask a tobacconist for recommendations or start with trusted brands like Arturo Fuente, Macanudo, or Romeo y Julieta.

💡 Pro Tip: Larger ring gauge = more tobacco = longer smoke.

2. Cut the Cigar Correctly: Choosing the Right Cut for the Best Draw

The way you cut your cigar has a big impact on how it smokes. A bad cut can cause uneven burning, draw issues, or unraveling of the wrapper. The goal is to open the cap (the rounded, closed end) just enough to allow airflow — without cutting too far into the body of the cigar.

Here’s a breakdown of the three main types of cigar cuts, when to use them, and how each affects your draw:

🔪 Straight Cut (Guillotine Cut)

Best for: Most cigars — especially parejos (straight-sided cigars)

This is the most common and beginner-friendly cut. It uses a single- or double-blade guillotine cutter to slice a thin portion off the cap.

• How to do it:
  Line up the cutter just above the shoulder of the cigar (where the curved end starts to flatten). Make a quick, decisive cut.

• Pros:
  ✔️ Simple and versatile
  ✔️ Provides a wide, open draw
  ✔️ Ideal for most cigar shapes

• Watch out for:
  Don’t cut too deep — you only want to remove the cap, not damage the wrapper.

⬧ V-Cut (Wedge Cut)

Best for: Toros, robustos, and cigars with larger ring gauges

Also known as a cat’s eye cut, the V-cut slices a wedge into the cap of the cigar, creating a deep groove that allows a concentrated draw.

• How to do it:
  Center the cutter over the cap and press down firmly. The blade will carve a V-shaped channel into the cigar.

• Pros:
  ✔️ Draws the smoke to the center of your palate
  ✔️ Reduces tar buildup
  ✔️ Elegant cut, less chance of unraveling

• Watch out for:
  V-cuts work best on straight-sided cigars. Avoid using them on torpedoes or belicosos (pointed-end cigars).

⚫ Punch Cut

Best for: Large ring gauge cigars (e.g. 50+), and those who prefer a tighter draw

The punch cut bores a small circular hole in the cap, using a round blade. It leaves most of the cigar cap intact.

• How to do it:
  Press the punch cutter into the center of the cap and twist gently until it slices through the wrapper. Then pull the plug out.

• Pros:
  ✔️ Clean, precise, no loose tobacco in your mouth
  ✔️ Great for people who prefer a slower, more concentrated draw
  ✔️ Easy to carry — many are built into lighters

• Watch out for:
  Not suitable for smaller cigars or tapered ends. Can restrict draw too much for some smokers’ preferences.

🧠 Which Cut Is Best?

There’s no “right” answer — it depends on your cigar, your draw preference, and your tools.

Cut TypeDraw StyleBest ForStraightOpen, airyMost cigarsV-CutFocused, intenseMedium-to-large cigarsPunchTight, slowLarge ring gauges

💬 Pro Tip: Keep more than one cutter on hand. Sometimes, one type of cut just works better with a specific cigar or occasion.

3. Toast and Light the Foot Properly

This is where the ritual begins. Use a butane torch lighter or long wooden match (avoid sulfur or Zippos — they taint flavor).

1. Hold the cigar at a 45° angle, about an inch above the flame.

2. Rotate it slowly while toasting the foot (the open end).

3. Puff gently while rotating to ensure an even burn.

🔥 Want more detail? Read: How to Light a Cigar Like a Pro

4. Puff — Don’t Inhale

Cigars are all about savoring, not inhaling. Draw the smoke into your mouth, taste it, and release it. Puff every 30–60 seconds to keep the cigar burning evenly without overheating it.

Let the flavors develop gradually. Premium cigars often change flavor as you smoke, revealing subtle notes of wood, spice, cocoa, or even coffee.

5. Respect the Ritual and Etiquette

• Don’t stub it out like a cigarette — just set it down, and it will extinguish on its own.

• Use a proper ashtray to rest your cigar between puffs.

• If your cigar goes out, it’s okay — just relight it respectfully.

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Conclusion: Make It Your Own

Smoking a cigar isn’t just about the tobacco — it’s about the experience. With the right cigar, the right technique, and the right tools, you’re ready to enjoy one of life’s simplest luxuries.

Take your time. Savor the flavor. And enjoy the ritual.