The first time I used a V-cutter (an inexpensive one) it ruined a couple of cigar heads. For that reason, I swore off v-cutters altogether, attributing it to bad design. Fast forward to about a year ago when my B&M owner/manager showed me his Xikar V-cutter. He said he carried it with him all the time and the paint was almost completely worn off of it. So I bought one and love it; it's the only cutter that I use. Gave one to my brother and he loves it too.