I don't remember where I read about it, but I have been using my xicar cutters differently recently and it has made a big difference in the number of caps I have inadvertently damaged by taking too much off. Instead of making a quick clip, I sort of skin the cap off. I put the cigar in the hole and then extend the blades enough to get a grip on the cigar and then turn the cutter without closing it any further. That leaves a nice clean cut and very rarely does any damage. I just wanted to pass the idea along in case others wanted to give it a shot. Anyone else already do this?