I've got a couple of punches, a Xikar, and a Palio. I rarely ever punch, IMHO, to much build up of tar and nicotine in/near the opening. Between the Xikar and Palio, the Palio consistantly gives me a much better cut. As far as the "V" cut, I'd give it a try and the scissors would probably be cool once you got the "procedure" down.