Thanks for the advice all, very interesting to hear everyone's preferences. Don't feel too bad
Lemon, I used a cheapie single blade guillotine cutter for a long time. Like you, I had some problems with it as the blade became dull-gotta love that tobacco in the mouth feeling. It doesn't surprise me that CP members prefer the two-bladed version, it gives a much better cut from what I've read, if you know anything about cutting wood, same principle applies. I know that CI and other companies offer a $10.00 deal where you get a bunch of them, which would last someone a very long time. I've even read from one book how the author kept razor-blades in every suitcase and briefcase he owned. You could tell it was written before 9/11, the guy mentioned being stopped in the airport with the blades and even with the .44 magnum punch and was allowed to keep it. :0
Here's what I did folks. I went to one heck of a good tobacconist and talked with the sales guy about all the pros and cons of each. Having used the Xikar cutter a lot with a good relative of mine, I kind of already had it in my head that I would probably end up with it, but alas, I decided to try something else. Soooo,(drumroll please) I picked a
Cuban crafters double-guillotine cutter, the more expensive version. This thing came highly recommended. If there were to be any problems for the rest of my life(relating to the cutter only) I could return it for a new one or receive my money back, so I figured that was a pretty good deal. I also ended up buying the
.44 magnum punch. If
CoventryCat recommends it, it has to be pretty good. But then again, given his political affiliation in the fine state of Connecticut, perhaps I should think twice.
:sign: I could have spent the same amount for one item, but I wanted a good punch, as well as cutter for the occassional odd shaped cigar that I do get. Thanks for playing, I'm sure the Xikar company loves your business and high esteem.
Just make sure you keep your fingers clear, and you should be fine.