If you’re unfamiliar with cigars but are interested in enjoying one of these rolled bundles of dried and fermented tobacco leaves, it’s worth learning more about the ritual-like process before you light up for the first time. Important elements, like choosing the right type of cigar, checking its quality and using the right lighting method, are all key to making the most of the experience. Another key part of the process is cutting the cigar. How you do that comes down to your choice of cigar cutter. Possibilities include a guillotine, a cigar punch or the less common V-cutter and cigar scissors.
But perhaps the easiest method to master is the cigar punch. Why? Because the process is comparatively simple. It only requires the creation of a circular hole in the end of the cigar’s cap to let smoke and air flow through. The window for getting it wrong is much smaller than with guillotine cutters, which require you to correctly slice the whole end of the cigar off at just the right place or else risk unraveling your stogie.
Furthermore, the compact size of cigar punches makes them easier to carry. Of all the cigar cutting options, punches are really the most ideal for keeping on your person at all times.
The major drawback to a cigar punch is that they can only be used on rounded caps. And, as they produce a smaller hole for smoke and air to flow through, you may find a cigar cut with a punch becomes tarry over time and delivers a slightly less flavor than guillotine-cut cigars.
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Below, you’ll find 11 of the best cigar punches available. There are options for smokers who prioritize function, punches for people who love style and a range that balance the two beautifully.
1. Xikar 7mm Twist Punch Gunmetal
BEST OVERALL
With its compact and high-quality build, the Xikar 7mm Twist Punch Gunmetal is a convenient and functional answer to punching your cigar. It sports a razor-sharp cylindrical blade for a clean cut. The blade appears and disappears with a convenient twist of the barrel. In addition, the gunmetal device also includes a handy key ring for easy attachment to your keys, backpack or other loops about your person.
2. Mrs. Brog Stainless Steel Cigar Punch
BEST NOVELTY
If you are going to be carrying a cigar punch around with you, you may as well choose one which looks cool. Sporting a shiny silver finish and stylish bullet-shaped design, the ticks all the boxes. It includes a key ring to make carrying it easy and a screw-top cap which provides easy access to the blade underneath.
3. OYHBO Cigar Punch
BEST VALUE
If you have friends or family who also enjoy the occasional cigar, why not get the and surprise them with a handy gift? This three-piece set includes one black, one blue and one gray-colored punch, making it ideal for sharing or gifting to friends. Each pill-shaped punch also sports a key ring and includes an eight-millimeter cutting ring concealed underneath the screw top.
4. Key Ring Punch Cutter
BEST KEY RING
This Key Ring Punch Cutter is another option which sports a simple yet effective design. To use it, simply pop off the cap of the pill-shaped device and punch your cigar before replacing the lid on the waterproof plastic housing. This punch is available in a range of different colors and includes a built-in key ring for attaching the compact device to your keys or other belongings.
5. Screwpop Cigar Punch
MOST DURABLE
If a beer and a cigar sound like your idea of heaven, the is the right choice for you. The compact and smart design includes both a cigar punch and a bottle opener. The large-gauge punch delivers a comprehensive hole in the cap, while the lightweight, durable construction makes it capable of dealing with all the elements. Additionally, the spring-locked loop easily attaches to golf bags, backpacks and belt loops.
6. TOMOLO Torch Lighter With Cigar Punch
BEST LIGHTER/PUNCH COMBO
If you prefer to have everything you need to get your cigar ready to smoke all in one place, check out this . It includes both a cigar punch and a butane cigar lighter. It’s also constructed from a durable zinc alloy which results in a durable and sturdy product capable of producing triple jet flames for lighting cigars and cigarettes with ease. In addition, this quality product makes for a classy gift idea for birthdays, father’s day or weddings.
7. CIGARLOONG Retractable Cigar Punch
MOST DECORATIVE
With its classy appearance and accompanying box, the makes a great gift choice for the cigar smoker in your life. Inside the punch, you’ll find two individual circular blades which allow you to pick between different hole sizes. The stylish cigar punch also includes a key ring for attaching it to your belongings or carrying it by hand.
8. SD Select Draw Cigar Cutter Cigar Punch Tool
MOST UNIQUE
While it may not look quite like the average cigar punch, nor work like one, either, the does let you prep your cigars for smoking. Instead of a singular circular cut, the punch sports three individual prongs which pierce the cap. This alternative preparation allows you to tailor the number of holes to your tastes and helps you maximize your cigar’s flavor. The aluminum construction also makes it a stylish piece you won’t be afraid to use in front of friends. Additionally, the punch includes a protective screw top and a drawstring bag for easy storage.
9. Zino Z9 Punch
BEST SPLURGE
Featuring an extremely sharp blade, the Zino Z9 Punch offers an effective way to cut a clean hole in any size cigar cap in seconds. The smart push-pull mechanism instantly exposes the stainless steel blade housed inside. When retracted, the blade also clears itself of any loose tobacco. The compact, silver device includes a handy, built-in key ring that can attach to a belt loop or any other belonging to make it easy to keep it on you when you’re on the move.
10. Visol VCUT901 Odair Black Cigar Punch
EASIEST DESIGN
While cigar punches most of the time aren’t the most intricately built devices on the planet, this cigar punch is extra easy for its ergonomic design and effortless way of using. Like some of the others in this list, this punch comes with a key loop so you can keep it safe and near at all times. It’s modern-looking and doesn’t exude any excessive qualities, which is good if you’re the type that likes to hide their love for cigars or keep your habits on the DL.
11. Pardo Double Punch
BEST SIZING
You’re going to need a different size punch depending on your cigar type, so this three-in-one tool will help you punch properly with ease. Punch a small, medium or large hole depending on your like-age or what makes the most sense for what you’re smoking. It’s decently small in size and though it doesn’t have a loop to hang on your keys on, it’s tiny enough to slide right in your pocket for safekeeping.