Punch cut is splitting the cap

[Zeede]

My Xikar ELX has a punch cutter built into the bottom, as many do. On the last two cigars I smoked, the cap split a little when I punched it. It was still completely smokeable, but I'm wondering why.

I have punched four cigars with it, so it shouldn't be dull yet. I press the cigar onto the punch firmly but smoothly, rotating a bit back and forth as I apply even pressure. Am I doing it wrong? Is it perhaps my RH is kept at 70%? Does this just happen sometimes?

[theHammer56]

My first thought would be to think that the blade is dull - but have to agree - certainly not after so little use. I'm interested to hear the 'weigh ins' myself...

[piperdown]

I haven't used a punch since I lost mine years ago. On some wrappers it would happen even though the punch was sharp so I started moistening the cap a min or two before punching it. That stopped any cracking issues.

[Horseshoe]

Is it the same type of cigar? I have some cigars that are always bad punching cigars. Just bad cap construction. Do you spin the punch as you are using it? Just a slight spin while applying preasure will help it cut cleaner.

[TheGrumpyOleTroll]

Too much pressure, dry cap, dull punch...

Could be a number of things but if its still smokable I wouldn't worry too much and enjoy the cigar.


The Troll

[herman]

I usually lick the cap before punching to avoid this. I'm waiting for someone to share a convenient way to sharpen. I heard some Xikar punches have self sharpening, and am curious how they do it. If you can recreate that part or maybe get it done with some dremel skill.

[droy1958]

A lick does the trick for me...

[Tobias Lutz]

I store at 60 and lick the cap of any cigar prior to punching it. You also need to watch the amount of pressure you apply, a cigar punch shouldn't be slammed like a hole punch in the office.

[Nature]

All of these are great suggestions. I also make my cut by holding the punch at a very slight angle, so that the cut begins on one side. Then with a slight twisting/rocking motion complete the punch.

[Tombstone]

I figure its similar to slicing a tomato. You need a sharp blade and smooth motion and a bit of pressure. Given the details I would just chalk it up to bad luck. Sounds like you have a decent setup, 70rh cigars should be plenty moist, and your combination of pressure and twist should do the trick.