How to Cut a Torpedo Cigar

Cigar shapes come in two formats: Parejos and Figurados. A Parejo is a classic cigar shape, with straight lines and a rounded head, while a Figurado has a shape that deviates from this. For example, a Figurado cigar may taper at the cap, flare at the foot, bulge in the middle or finish with a pigtail cap.

Figurado cigars include Torpedos, Belicosos and Pyramids, along with some other more exotics shapes and sizes of cigars.

With a more unusual shape than the standard Parejo format, you may be wondering how to cut a torpedo cigar, as the tapered head is different and you may need to change your technique to get the best results.

In this article, we’ll be looking into how to get a prime cut of a Torpedo cigar to ensure to delivers maximum flavour and smoking enjoyment.

What is a Torpedo Cigar?

A Torpedo cigar, as the name suggests, is shaped like the military weapon of the same name. Thankfully, that is where the similarities end.

Torpedo cigars typically taper between the cigar band and cap, reaching a point at the cap. From the band to the foot, they are actually similar to a Parejo, as it is straight from that point down.

The distinctions between Belicosos and Torpedos can often be marginal, leading to some aficionados using the term interchangeably. However, to be precise, Belicosos come to a taper more sharply, often continuing with the same width past the band and coming to a smaller, blunter point.

Where to Cut a Torpedo Cigar?

There are a couple of different methods of cutting a Torpedo, and these can be tailored to how much of a draw you’re looking for. The draw will determine the amount of flavour and smoke that comes through with each puff of the cigar. We’ll take a look the main two options below:

How to Cut a Torpedo Cigar With a V-Cutter

If you’re carrying a V-cutter, then you will be able to use this on your Torpedo. Because of the design and shape of the cutter, chances are you’ll end up not with a V-shape, but with a wedge, as the size of the cigar limits the amount of cap you can cut.

When using a V-cutter, we’d suggest holding the cigar with the label facing away from you and making a straight, clean cut.

We’d recommend starting just a few millimetres into the cigar and testing the draw from there, cut further into the cigar to increase the draw, but be careful not to lop the whole head!

After all, the whole point of the Torpedo is the head; taking this off would leave you with a classic Parejo.

How to Cut a Torpedo Cigar With a Straight Cutter

There are two methods you can opt for when using a straight cutter. The first is to cut the cigar horizontally at around 3mm-4mm deep, ensuring you keep plenty of the tapered head intact.

If you cut too close to the end, the draw may be tight, but too close to the band and the Torpedo becomes a regular Parejo.

Alternatively, you could look to try the angled cut. This sees the cigar being cut again with a straight cutter, but with the cutter held at a 45-degree angle.

Make sure the label is facing away from you, and the angle is down towards you. This will direct the smoke onto the palette and allow you to enjoy the full flavour of the cigar.

No matter which technique you opt for, we’d recommend using a Xikar cutter to ensure a sharp and clean cut.

If you’re looking to take a draw on your first Torpedo, or want to restock your humidor with some of the finest, then check out our selection of New World cigars online.

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