Abstract: A machine is provided for cutting rod-like material traversely to its longitudinal axis. The machine comprises means for feeding the material, means for cutting a portion off the rod-like material; brake means, which are located in the vicinity of the cutting means, for guiding and braking the rod-like material in the vicinity of the cutting means; wherein the brake means comprises a housing which includes two radially movable jaws and a flexible hose surrounding the jaws for frictionally engaging the material as it is being fed by the feeding means to guide the material in the vicinity of the cutting means.