Kurt Van Keppel, who wanted to buy a good cigar cutter in 1994, found the inexpensive models and the high-end models underperforming. So, he set out with Scott Almsberger to match good design (ergonomics and function) with the best styling and materials. The result was the Xi cutter, which they first assembled in their garages, and is now the market leader in cigar cutlery. Today, XIKAR offers an array of cutters, lighters and other products for cigar smokers.
XIKAR is dedicated to providing value through honest and ergonomic design at a fair price. Honest design includes consideration of function, ergonomic comfort with simple, clean lines and lack of superfluous decoration on the product. Good design will enhance a users visual, tactile and mechanical experience with XIKAR products.
The following four fundamentals make up XIKAR's product development:
- Function: extremely high functional, mechanical and material quality are essential to each product.
- Form: beautiful design enhances the experience and enjoyment of our product. XIKAR product should be ergonomic (easy to the hand) and artful (easy to the eye).
- Fair: a fair price, combined with quality and design.
- Forever: an unconditional, lifetime guarantee on all XIKAR products communicates their commitment to their consumers and their confidence in their quality.