how to use a punch

[mithril]

ok, i just bought a cheap punch cutter and i'm not quite sure how to use it. am i just supposed to push it in the end of the cigar or push and twist? and if twist, does it matter what direction, ie clockwise or counter-clockwise?

[PuffTheMagicDragon]

If it is very sharp, light pressure with a slight twist will sink it in nicely. If it is not so sharp like mine, you will have to use an almost sawing motion, twisting back and forth.....not good for the cap of the cigar. Hum......guess it is time I get a new punch, aye?

[8-5-8]

I've had some caps split on me when using a punch, so I find that if you must twist, do so in the same direction that the cap was applied. This can help prevent splits and tears. And a split cap basically ruins a cigar for me... can't stand trying to smoke one like that.

[Kayakinboy]

I don't use a punch hardly ever. It's too hard for my big hands not to split the cap.

[labmonkey]

it's best to get as sharp a punch as possible...I get rid of mine if they are too dull. I always use a twisting motion, and as little pressure as possible, let the blade do the work. With a dull blade, I found that moistening the cap a little can keep it from splitting.

[TheyCallMeManiX]

all very good pointers . . . twisting a bit and light pressure and wet the cap a bit . . . and of course, if its dull you need a new one



here's MY specific problem(i'll post here since it might help others as well to get this answered) . . . what if you have a punch blade on/as part of your lighter???

i cant throw it all out obviously(its a good lighter-expensive too) should i get this proffesionaly sharpened or try it myself? i obviously have to sharpen it as opposed to throwing it away since its attached.

another thing, why do these things go dull? its not like they are cutting something too detrimental(sp?) to the blade. anyway, so yeah . . . what do you guys think?