I am far from being an expert (or even close to the knowledge some of these guys have), but it sounds to me, from your description, that your problem may be your cut. I think you may be cutting too much off of the cigar. Try doing a search on this site or the net in general for how to cut a cigar. I have seen sites it pictures and very detailed instructions.

As for your cutter, there is nothing wrong with using a guillotine cutter, as long as its a good one. You may luck out and find a good sharp one for little money. I have one that I keep in my wallet (for those times when I find myself without my good one) that I paid $1.50 for. It works pretty well. I wouldn't trade it for my good one any day, but it'll do in a pinch. Get you a few decent cutters (one or two of each kind), try them all, and then decide which type of cut you like and THEN get you a GOOD one of that type. It doesn't have to cost a whole lot, but it can if you let it get out of hand.

Welcome to the site, look around. There is a lot of good information here.