NOVEMBER 2008

Kurt's Corner

Dear XIKAR Friends,

Portrait of XIKAR CEO Kurt Van Keppel

This time of year makes us reflect upon the things for which we are truly thankful - good health, friends and family. This year, I am also thankful for democracy and rule of law.

You have probably heard by now of the recent attempt of the Cuban government to extend its totalitarian influence into the cigar accessories market. Under the guise of Corporacion Habanos, they are attempting to usurp XIKAR's private property and liberty by attacking our beloved Havana Collection.

Corporacion Habanos trademarked the name "Habanos Unicos Desde 1492" which translates "Unique Cuban Cigars Since 1492." The claim made in their trademark opposition is that the name, Havana Collection, might insinuate the items are made in Cuba. This is not what The Havana Collection is about. The collection, as its tagline states, is about "Capturing The Spirit Of Havana One Cigar At A Time." In reality it is no different than Tommy Bahama which promotes the atmosphere of the Bahamas rather than the origin itself.

What is most bothersome to me is that Cuba - a country which has no legal right to sell in the U.S., is using our own courts to impose the same bully actions that it had used on its own citizens since 1959.

It is in times of dispute such as this that am gracious to live in a country where I have a voice. I am thankful for the support of the customers and consumers who are rooting for me and am confident that with your support XIKAR will come out on top.

Read the press release and View FOX coverage

>>>

Sincerely,
Kurt Van Keppel

New 91 Rating for Defiance

"...leathery flavors balanced by toasty caramel notes and pleasant tea intonations."

Cigar Aficionado's recent October 2008 take on the Defiance Guardian (Toro 6 ½ x 52). This rating gives credence to the 91 Rating in July by Cigar Insider and reviews by the likes of Cigar Press.

Defiance Cigars are blended by rising cigar star, Jesus Fuego, and 5% of all profits go to the fight against anti-tobacco legislation.

To try a Defiance cigar find a retailer near you.
Or join the Defiance Alliance.

New Products
009 Pull Out Punch
The 009 Pull Out Punch offers the clean cut of a XIKAR bullet punch with the knowledge that you will never lose a piece. Simply pull the body of the punch in two and a razor sharp 9mm punch is exposed. Punch the cigar and push the body back together to safely enclose the blade and release any loose tobacco.

Element Lighter
We've tweaked the design of one of our most popular lighters. The Element now boasts a "XIKAR - sharp" 9 mm cigar punch that's conveniently hidden in the base and a lightning fast Rapid Fire™ ignition. A simple thumb press on the trigger opens a protective cap and ignites two powerful jet flames. A fuel gauge and metal adjustment wheel ensures the right amount of flame every time. The metal body case has durable finishes of black, chrome silver, gunmetal, red, and blue. You asked for it, XIKAR made it happen.

Find a retailer near you

Photo Contest Winner

Congratulations to Alvin Gouveia of Valley Stream, New York. While overlooking the sixth hole, he enjoyed a 91 Rated Defiance Guardian at Puakea Golf Course on Kauai, Hawaii.

Survey: Best Gift
Holiday season is here and that means presents! Sure it is the season for giving, but that doesn't mean that you can't have a wish list. XIKAR wants to know what your asking for this year. See how your wish list's number one cigar accessory gift matches up with other XIKAR consumers, and be entered for a chance to win your choice of one of four prizes: an Xi1 Cutter, an Element lighter, a 009 punch or a triple cigar Envoy Case.

Take the Survey here!

Ask the Experts

How to Calibrate your Hygrometer
Cold, winter air can quickly zap your cigars of all moisture, so you need to be sure your humidor is well humidified with an accurate hygrometer. If you suspect your hygrometer is giving a false reading, all you need is a bottle cap, a plastic bag and some salt.

Testing and recalibrating your hygrometer is easy to do:

1. Place a teaspoon of table salt in a bottle cap
2. Add just enough water to dampen the salt, but not so much that the water floats on the surface of the salt.
3. Place both your hygrometer and the filled bottle cap in the bag and seal it. Make sure there is some air trapped inside and that the seal is tight.
4. Let the bag sit for about 4 hours and check that the hygrometer reads 75%. If does not remove your hygrometer and adjust it accordingly.

A XIKAR Digital Adjustable Hygrometer can be calibrated inside the bag with the push of a button and will accurately measure temperature as well as humidity. Paired with other XIKAR humidification products your cigars will be in great shape when you decide to enjoy a smoke.

Find a retailer near you >>

Our Commitment

We never waiver in our commitment to offering you top quality leisure tools that enhance your lifestyle. So you can buy with confidence, we back all our products for life and welcome any suggestions and concerns. So, if you feel that a XIKAR product fails to live up to our promise of fit, finish or function, simply return it to us and we will immediately and cheerfully repair or replace your product under our Total Satisfaction Guarantee!

About XIKAR, Inc.
From its Kansas City headquarters, XIKAR is the world's leading manufacturer of cigar cutters, including the well-recognized Xi cigar cutter, along with a full line of cigar accessories, lighters and humidification devices and containers.

XIKAR cigar cutters and accessories are sold through more than 3,000 dealers worldwide. With even more product and service introductions planned, XIKAR strives to lead the market in providing quality and innovative cigar accessories now, and in the years to come.

In this Issue

Kurt's Corner
91 Rating!
New Products
Ask the Experts
XIKAR for Life
About XIKAR Inc.

Quick Links

XIKAR Press Contact:
Jacob Dysart
Media Relations
Email: jdysart@xikar.com
Phone: 888-266-1193

XIKAR Sales Contact:
Customer Service
Email: info@xikar.com
Phone: 866-676-7380