Head
The head of a cigar is the closed end that you place in your mouth—the opposite of the foot, which you light. It’s the part that’s sealed with a cap, and it's where you'll make your cut before smoking. Understanding the head is essential to cutting correctly, ensuring a smooth draw, and preserving the cigar’s structure.
Key Characteristics
- Location: The closed end of the cigar
- Function: Point of contact with your mouth; where the cut is made
- Structure: Rounded and sealed with a cap
- Affects: Draw quality, flavor delivery, and cigar integrity
Citation: Cigar Aficionado – Anatomy of a Cigar
Components of the Cigar Head
| Term | Description |
| Cap | A small piece of wrapper leaf that seals the head |
| Shoulder | The curved transition between the cylindrical body and the rounded head |
| Head | The entire end that includes the cap and the part you cut before smoking |
Understanding these parts helps you make a proper, clean cut that maintains structure and maximizes airflow.
Why the Head Matters
- Controls the draw: Cutting too deep or too shallow affects how the cigar smokes
- Maintains construction: A well-preserved head prevents unraveling and flaking
- Delivers flavor: The shape and size of the cut at the head influence smoke concentration and mouthfeel
- Visual indicator of quality: A symmetrical, tightly applied head suggests skilled craftsmanship
How to Cut the Head Properly
- Identify the shoulder—the point where the cigar’s rounded head starts to curve
- Use a sharp cutter (straight, V-cut, or punch depending on preference)
- Cut just above the shoulder, removing only the cap without exposing the filler
- Test the draw—it should be smooth but not too loose
Cutting below the cap can cause the wrapper to unravel, while cutting too shallow may restrict airflow.
Head Shapes and Variations
| Type | Description |
| Rounded | Standard parejo head with triple or double cap |
| Tapered | Found on Torpedo, Belicoso, and Perfecto cigars |
| Pigtail | Twisted extension of wrapper on top |
| Flat Head | Seen in some box-pressed or novelty cigars |
Each shape may require a different cutting technique to optimize performance.
Common Cutting Mistakes at the Head
- Overcutting: Leads to unraveling and harsh draw
- Undercutting: Results in tight draw and weak smoke output
- Crushing the cap: Happens with dull cutters or improper pressure
- Punching tapered heads: Can create draw issues or cracking
Related Glossary Terms
Summary
The head of a cigar is more than just the part you cut—it's a critical structural element that affects the draw, flavor delivery, and overall smoking experience. Knowing how to identify, preserve, and properly cut the head is essential to getting the most out of every cigar you light.