PDA

View Full Version : I need a new cutter and as always, I’m conflicted...



CitizenZero
11-20-2020, 10:32 AM
So I’ve been dickin’ around with cheapies for a little while now, but it’s probably time to man up and ditch the plastic. The Colibris appear to be decent and in an acceptable price range plus Prime shipping is a win so the question is: V-Cutter, Straight cutter, combo or both? I’m all over the place when it comes to how I pop the top on my smokes, generally if I can get away with a punch, that’s how I go just so I don’t have to worry about mangling the cap. But it’s few and far between when I’m able to get an acceptable draw from a punch cut. It usually goes a little something like this: *punch* “Ah. That looks good.” *draw* “F*#k!” *straight cut* As for V-Cuts, I think this $3 plastic one I picked up at the CI store gave me PTSD. It’s managed to mutilate every stick that’s come close to it and I don’t even know if I like a V ‘cause I don’t think I’ve ever had a true V cut, more like a “U with a lazy eye.” Bums, I need some advice or at the very least some alternate perspectives, plz.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Sticky B
11-20-2020, 10:40 AM
Xikar V-Cutter FTW. They make quality products that will last forever (take it back for a brand new one if it doesn't, for free) and they get the V-Cut right. It's basically the only thing I use.

It should cost you like, $40 maybe? Fill out the warranty papers and get a free leather sheath! Flip it upside down and the cutter is a cigar-rest! It does everything besides make breakfast for you ;)

CitizenZero
11-20-2020, 10:59 AM
Xikar V-Cutter FTW. They make quality products that will last forever (take it back for a brand new one if it doesn't, for free) and they get the V-Cut right. It's basically the only thing I use.

It should cost you like, $40 maybe? Fill out the warranty papers and get a free leather sheath! Flip it upside down and the cutter is a cigar-rest! It does everything besides make breakfast for you ;)

I like the words I’m seeing. Now a caveat to my original post, most of what I smoke is small RG. Lanceros, panatellas, even some small tin cigarillos. Do you reckon a v cutter would still be effective for these vitolas?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Sticky B
11-20-2020, 11:13 AM
Yep - I'm a small RG, short cigar guy. Petit Coronas, Half Coronas, Quarter Churchill, 8th of ...... you get the point

While Punch can struggle on smaller cigars, V seems to have no issues. In fact, it's the larger (55+ RG) sizes that you might need to adjust your V usage to include a second cut, making a + symbol so that you can get enough draw on a real thick cigar.

My Xikar V cutter has zero problems with torpedo heads as well. I actually enjoy that i can keep most of the vitolas shape intact while making the V-slit to draw from, as I prefer perfectos the most

Tombstone
11-20-2020, 12:19 PM
While the V-cut is not my go to, I will say that a cheap V cutter will turn you off to the cut quick. Kayla gifted me a Xikar and it is far and above the rest I have used. I will also back up Sean as being the master of the small RG and smoking them like a champ. If you are a Seinfield guy there is that episode where Kramer takes that car for a test drive and takes it way past E. That's Sean with a cigar. Just when most people think its done he is just hitting the sweet spot and is just getting started. For straight cutters Colibri makes a solid cutter. I picked one up and it worked well for a long time. Punch cutters are a dime a dozen. Cheap, expensive they are all the same. I have a X875 Cutter from Xikar, platic but well made and the cutting edge is still going great 8 years later. I picked it up when a botl left it at a herf when I first started, StikyB was there that day if I remember correctly and its still cutting like a champ.

CitizenZero
11-20-2020, 12:37 PM
While the V-cut is not my go to, I will say that a cheap V cutter will turn you off to the cut quick. Kayla gifted me a Xikar and it is far and above the rest I have used. I will also back up Sean as being the master of the small RG and smoking them like a champ. If you are a Seinfield guy there is that episode where Kramer takes that car for a test drive and takes it way past E. That's Sean with a cigar. Just when most people think its done he is just hitting the sweet spot and is just getting started. For straight cutters Colibri makes a solid cutter. I picked one up and it worked well for a long time. Punch cutters are a dime a dozen. Cheap, expensive they are all the same. I have a X875 Cutter from Xikar, platic but well made and the cutting edge is still going great 8 years later. I picked it up when a botl left it at a herf when I first started, StikyB was there that day if I remember correctly and its still cutting like a champ.

Ryans always have the best advice. Although I can only think of this whenever I respond to you. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201120/0199cdfe7f679dc7429d7d1cdee03ebc.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Tombstone
11-20-2020, 12:48 PM
Ryans always have the best advice. Although I can only think of this whenever I respond to you. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201120/0199cdfe7f679dc7429d7d1cdee03ebc.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I approve of this message. Marvel > DC

restomod
11-20-2020, 01:47 PM
Colibri V for me all day every day. Tried them all and for consistency sake the V is the way for me. Also out of all the V's I like the Colibri the best because it is way deeper than even the Xikar. Even on smaller smokes the deep V is fine and on the bigger stuff it makes a world of difference. Also agree that please don't judge a V off of the cheapos, the blade on them is horrible.

CitizenZero
11-20-2020, 01:54 PM
Colibri V for me all day every day. Tried them all and for consistency sake the V is the way for me. Also out of all the V's I like the Colibri the best because it is way deeper than even the Xikar. Even on smaller smokes the deep V is fine and on the bigger stuff it makes a world of difference. Also agree that please don't judge a V off of the cheapos, the blade on them is horrible.

Colibri makes a combo cutter I was eyeing.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

jhedrick83
11-20-2020, 03:52 PM
I love my Xikar V as well. I also like it because one side is concave and acts as an impromptu cigar rest.

CitizenZero
11-20-2020, 03:55 PM
I love my Xikar V as well. I also like it because one side is concave and acts as an impromptu cigar rest.

I’m not gonna lie, those are the kind of features that get me to buy stuff tho. I’m a sucker for a multitasker.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

CitizenZero
11-20-2020, 03:57 PM
Yep - I'm a small RG, short cigar guy. Petit Coronas, Half Coronas, Quarter Churchill, 8th of ...... you get the point


[emoji1787][emoji1787][emoji1787]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

jhedrick83
11-20-2020, 04:03 PM
I’m not gonna lie, those are the kind of features that get me to buy stuff tho. I’m a sucker for a multitasker.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I am too. I tend to just keep it in my traveldor so that I have a cutter and a rest with me whenever I take cigars with me.

chain_gang
11-20-2020, 04:11 PM
It's been a love and hate relationship with Xikar.

The hate - read here: https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink/topic?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Ecigarbum%2Ecom%2Ffor um%2Fshowthread%2Ephp%3Ft%3D10518&share_tid=10518&share_fid=970984&share_type=t&link_source=app

The love:

I've been "experimenting" with my v-cutter and lighter. By "experimenting", I mean I just leave them outside with the hopes of them rusting away, becoming lock-jawed, and ultimately unusuable. They've been my subjects since the beginning of summer, and have seen much rain. Dude, these product are freakin BEASTS of metal. The lighter still blasts and the cutter cuts cuts like Cutter McCuttencutt (very well). I've noticed some red dust on the cutter, but I'm not sure if it's rust or just some good ol' dried tobacco juice.

I want these things dead, but the elements aren't doing it!

CitizenZero
11-20-2020, 04:41 PM
It's been a love and hate relationship with Xikar.

The hate - read here: https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink/topic?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Ecigarbum%2Ecom%2Ffor um%2Fshowthread%2Ephp%3Ft%3D10518&share_tid=10518&share_fid=970984&share_type=t&link_source=app

The love:

I've been "experimenting" with my v-cutter and lighter. By "experimenting", I mean I just leave them outside with the hopes of them rusting away, becoming lock-jawed, and ultimately unusuable. They've been my subjects since the beginning of summer, and have seen much rain. Dude, these product are freakin BEASTS of metal. The lighter still blasts and the cutter cuts cuts like Cutter McCuttencutt (very well). I've noticed some red dust on the cutter, but I'm not sure if it's rust or just some good ol' dried tobacco juice.

I want these things dead, but the elements aren't doing it!

I hear ol’ Cutter McCuttencutt cuts a mean cut so that’s saying somethin’.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

josh lucky 13
11-20-2020, 05:58 PM
My 2 cents. Cheap cutters you get what you pay for but worth having a few. I have a small golf bag humi I keep 1 in there. I got another cheapie in the garage. If I fished I would keep 1 in tackle box. Emergency use only or if lost no big deal.

My primary cutter has been xikar, lighter too for that matter. The lifetime warranty was great but since they were bought out my beloved xikar axia was taken and replaced with a cheaper replacement in my opinion. For this reason I am done with xikar. I still have the punch on my key chain (8yo) I still use my xi2 (almost 11yrs old now)and my xikar v cut( 6yo). They work great no issues but I personally won't spend anymore on xikar.

Now I have more cutters and such than i need I remember years ago on another forum a debate over xikar and palio. I have not owned one but i used someones 1 time and liked it. I know many on here are colibri fans but i have no experience with them.

I think if you can try out a cutter before you buy would be ideal for you. But don't be afraid to spend for a good one because it should last you years as long as you don't lose it.

CitizenZero
11-20-2020, 06:08 PM
My 2 cents. Cheap cutters you get what you pay for but worth having a few. I have a small golf bag humi I keep 1 in there. I got another cheapie in the garage. If I fished I would keep 1 in tackle box. Emergency use only or if lost no big deal.

My primary cutter has been xikar, lighter too for that matter. The lifetime warranty was great but since they were bought out my beloved xikar axia was taken and replaced with a cheaper replacement in my opinion. For this reason I am done with xikar. I still have the punch on my key chain (8yo) I still use my xi2 (almost 11yrs old now)and my xikar v cut( 6yo). They work great no issues but I personally won't spend anymore on xikar.

Now I have more cutters and such than i need I remember years ago on another forum a debate over xikar and palio. I have not owned one but i used someones 1 time and liked it. I know many on here are colibri fans but i have no experience with them.

I think if you can try out a cutter before you buy would be ideal for you. But don't be afraid to spend for a good one because it should last you years as long as you don't lose it.

That’s a bummer what happened to your Axia. :( I can’t bag on the cheapies too much because they’ve been serviceable in their duties but you’re right. You get what ya pay for. I like my little plastic one cause I can carry it in my wallet and I know a more expensive cutter probably won’t offer me that level of convenience but it’s getting to be about time to make the investment. Not that I have the money and even if I did, could justify spending it but this Mayan is Pablo Escobar-level dope. One style I haven’t seen mentioned and I’m curious if you have any experience with is the scissor style cutters. I like em cause it looks like it affords me a bit more visibility and control. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201120/dec8077a8c7a2d74e7004f9701fdeb72.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

josh lucky 13
11-20-2020, 07:04 PM
That’s a bummer what happened to your Axia. :( I can’t bag on the cheapies too much because they’ve been serviceable in their duties but you’re right. You get what ya pay for. I like my little plastic one cause I can carry it in my wallet and I know a more expensive cutter probably won’t offer me that level of convenience but it’s getting to be about time to make the investment. Not that I have the money and even if I did, could justify spending it but this Mayan is Pablo Escobar-level dope. One style I haven’t seen mentioned and I’m curious if you have any experience with is the scissor style cutters. I like em cause it looks like it affords me a bit more visibility and control. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201120/dec8077a8c7a2d74e7004f9701fdeb72.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That's what my xi2 is. Most xikar cutters are like that until the xo series which i have not used but seem bulkier to me which is why would you want that. I like the way they cut and you don't have to get that fancy. Now if your a baller you can go this route

https://scrimbyhutchstudio.com/

Or

https://www.cigarsinternational.com/mobile/p/xikar-xi3-phantom-damascus/2007606/

But honestly the $40 to $50 cutters is what i have and works great. Sometimes you can find them cheaper on Craigslist or eBay.

Tombstone
11-20-2020, 07:09 PM
Sometimes you can find cigar branded XIkar cutters not advertised as a xikar at a better price. I know there was sons of anarchy one, a rocky patel one, and an Ave Maria one off the top of my head. You can tell they are Xikar based on the shape and work just as good usually for a fraction of the cost.

SoCal gunner
11-20-2020, 07:44 PM
Single favorite pocket cutter is the xikar v-cut. The colibri is nice too, but the original xikar is so slim, light weight, acts as a rest, and still cuts great. I have a xikar series 2 v cut too, but imo, it cuts too deep and is bulky and heavy as hell.
I V-cut almost everything thing, but draw the line at perfectos, chisels, etc. So if there can only be one, then go with the Xikar xi series in the design/machoice. (and $) of your choice.

Look for sales on all the cigar sites, especially for unpopular colors. I also do what Tombstone said and buy branded ones that are on sale (same cutter that says PDR will be much cheaper than one that says Padron).

Pic of my fav that Jesse and Sean referenced https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201121/15c04a8d0693177b36ecb04e2fc4815c.jpg

Brimy
11-20-2020, 10:34 PM
The Colibri V cut is legit!! I enjoyed every smoke I've cut with it. Too bad I lost that bitch.
The Xicar "teardrop" is a nice straight cut. My go to on a regular.

chain_gang
11-20-2020, 10:43 PM
That's what my xi2 is. Most xikar cutters are like that until the xo series which i have not used but seem bulkier to me which is why would you want that. I like the way they cut and you don't have to get that fancy. Now if your a baller you can go this route

https://scrimbyhutchstudio.com/

Or

https://www.cigarsinternational.com/mobile/p/xikar-xi3-phantom-damascus/2007606/

But honestly the $40 to $50 cutters is what i have and works great. Sometimes you can find them cheaper on Craigslist or eBay.I could never get a gaudy Terminator or Matt Booth cutter - they're cool, just not my style. I do want to find a place that does customs for a future cutter so I can get my squadron logo and motto painted on it.

josh lucky 13
11-21-2020, 12:11 AM
I could never get a gaudy Terminator or Matt Booth cutter - they're cool, just not my style. I do want to find a place that does customs for a future cutter so I can get my squadron logo and motto painted on it.

For something like that get a nice xi and go to an engraver. The xi are metal instead of the composite that the x2 are.

Sticky B
11-21-2020, 11:42 AM
Xikar Pro Tip - find a really crappy looking one on ebay if you can. People won't bid much for it - but Xikar has a forever guarantee. Take to any dealer and they'll attempt to "fix" it. I got the Xi2 Carbon Fiber for I think $30 shipped, it was pretty mangled, on way to bend it back so that the springs etc would work anymore. Received a brand new one right on the spot.

As far as types/competitors go, I started with the Palio and Xikar x2, my buddy got the CC Perfect Cut - His perfect cut works as it should, but isn't the best cutter of the three. People love Palio, but I never really use it. The Xi2 was my go-to and still is if I need to completely slice a cigar off at any point, but since getting the XV V-Cutter it's been the only thing I reach for, every time.

Tombstone
11-21-2020, 12:07 PM
I could never get a gaudy Terminator or Matt Booth cutter - they're cool, just not my style. I do want to find a place that does customs for a future cutter so I can get my squadron logo and motto painted on it.

https://i.imgur.com/BeRWOZB.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/MVQKBXp.jpg

Did someone say Matt Booth cutters?

josh lucky 13
11-21-2020, 12:11 PM
Xikar Pro Tip - find a really crappy looking one on ebay if you can. People won't bid much for it - but Xikar has a forever guarantee. Take to any dealer and they'll attempt to "fix" it. I got the Xi2 Carbon Fiber for I think $30 shipped, it was pretty mangled, on way to bend it back so that the springs etc would work anymore. Received a brand new one right on the spot.

As far as types/competitors go, I started with the Palio and Xikar x2, my buddy got the CC Perfect Cut - His perfect cut works as it should, but isn't the best cutter of the three. People love Palio, but I never really use it. The Xi2 was my go-to and still is if I need to completely slice a cigar off at any point, but since getting the XV V-Cutter it's been the only thing I reach for, every time.

Xikar rma process has changed. Stores no longer try to fix or replace anymore you mail it to them and hope they send it back(my personal experience).

jhedrick83
11-21-2020, 12:12 PM
https://i.imgur.com/BeRWOZB.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/MVQKBXp.jpg

Did someone say Matt Booth cutters?

A real missed opportunity with that punch placement...

Tombstone
11-21-2020, 12:22 PM
A real missed opportunity with that punch placement...

I would love it if they move the punch....

chain_gang
11-21-2020, 12:22 PM
https://i.imgur.com/BeRWOZB.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/MVQKBXp.jpg

Did someone say Matt Booth cutters?So that's what that was - a cutter. Figured it was some kinda figurine collectable.

Old Smokey
11-21-2020, 11:57 PM
I own 2 cutters, both straight cut. A Xicar V3 and an old Cuban Crafters Stainless Perfect Cutter. I really like them both, but the quality, strength and simplicity of the Perfect Cutter is why it gets the most use. I always always carry a super sharp switchblade knife that easily removes the cap on a cigar.

CitizenZero
11-22-2020, 12:36 AM
I own 2 cutters, both straight cut. A Xicar V3 and an old Cuban Crafters Stainless Perfect Cutter. I really like them both, but the quality, strength and simplicity of the Perfect Cutter is why it gets the most use. I always always carry a super sharp switchblade knife that easily removes the cap on a cigar.

I used to have a Perfect Cutter from CC and I’m pretty sure I gave it away when I stepped away from the hobby and I’m super pissed at myself for doing it. Luckily I liked the kid I think I gave it to.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

CitizenZero
11-22-2020, 12:42 AM
I own 2 cutters, both straight cut. A Xicar V3 and an old Cuban Crafters Stainless Perfect Cutter. I really like them both, but the quality, strength and simplicity of the Perfect Cutter is why it gets the most use. I always always carry a super sharp switchblade knife that easily removes the cap on a cigar.

I used to have a Perfect Cutter from CC and I’m pretty sure I gave it away when I stepped away from the hobby and I’m super pissed at myself for doing it. Luckily I liked the kid I think I gave it to.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

WNYTONY
11-22-2020, 02:11 AM
I used to have a Perfect Cutter from CC and I’m pretty sure I gave it away when I stepped away from the hobby and I’m super pissed at myself for doing it. Luckily I liked the kid I think I gave it to.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

You know, Christmas is coming and sometimes Santa hears the wishes of good little boys and girls.........

Old Smokey
11-22-2020, 07:31 AM
You know, Christmas is coming and sometimes Santa hears the wishes of good little boys and girls.........

But who said he was a good little boy or girl? What if he is on the naughty list for being a Chronic Monkey Spanker with a cabin in the woods full of baby Baboons? After all, this is 2020. :)

CitizenZero
11-22-2020, 09:44 AM
But who said he was a good little boy or girl? What if he is on the naughty list for being a Chronic Monkey Spanker with a cabin in the woods full of baby Baboons? After all, this is 2020. :)

You call it spanking... I call it disciplining. [emoji6]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Old Smokey
11-22-2020, 10:21 AM
You call it spanking... I call it disciplining. [emoji6]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That sounds almost more disturbing. But whatever floats your giblets. :) it is 2020.

CitizenZero
11-22-2020, 09:43 PM
7728

Found a deal on a Xikar and it’s nice to truly be able to experience a v cut. Glad I didn’t let the cheapie shape my opinion on the cut altogether.

StogBog
11-26-2020, 02:21 PM
I own 2 cutters, both straight cut. A Xicar V3 and an old Cuban Crafters Stainless Perfect Cutter. I really like them both, but the quality, strength and simplicity of the Perfect Cutter is why it gets the most use. I always always carry a super sharp switchblade knife that easily removes the cap on a cigar.

Would you recommend picking this up as a starter cutter. The one I got from the place near me was definitely not the best. I have not lost any sleep since ive lost it haha

Old Smokey
11-26-2020, 08:23 PM
Would you recommend picking this up as a starter cutter. The one I got from the place near me was definitely not the best. I have not lost any sleep since ive lost it haha

If you can find a stainless steel Perfect Cutter, yes I would recommend it.'welcome to CigarBum.

josh lucky 13
11-26-2020, 09:36 PM
Would you recommend picking this up as a starter cutter. The one I got from the place near me was definitely not the best. I have not lost any sleep since ive lost it haha

Get a good cutter now. As someone recommended find branded or used cutter xikar or palio or colibri

CitizenZero
11-27-2020, 11:51 PM
Gotta give a big shout to everyone that pushed me towards a quality v cutter. I’m really diggin’ this cut. I get the volume that I’m after without feeling like I’m getting baccy pieces in my mouth every pull.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

josh lucky 13
12-12-2020, 11:44 PM
Found a new option for you

https://halfwheel.com/xikar-and-jacob-co-announce-luxury-cigar-cutter-collection/384934/

CitizenZero
12-12-2020, 11:48 PM
Found a new option for you

https://halfwheel.com/xikar-and-jacob-co-announce-luxury-cigar-cutter-collection/384934/

:scratches out “house fund” on the swear jar:


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

allusred
12-13-2020, 11:43 AM
I would love it if they move the punch....

Or maybe a tap on the top would would move the cutter into the right fully exposed position?