Shopping for someone who loves cigars? See the gift guide

Gear, considered.

Cutters, lighters, cases and the everyday setup.

What different accessories are designed to do and the tradeoffs between them. Comparisons are based on published specifications and stated sources unless a story says otherwise.

An open flip-top lighter with a tall flame against a dark background.

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New to gear?

The basic tools for cutting and lighting a cigar Guillotine, punch or V-cut. Torch, soft flame, match or spill. How each one works, and what the sources say are the trade-offs.