Is a Xikar really worth it? [Archive] - Cigar Asylum Cigar Forum

Pauly Walnuts

01-09-2010, 02:36 PM

Hey guys, I'm looking to upgrade my cutter because I'm always pinching my hands with the one I have.... clumsy. Looking around on ebay I see that these cutters go for around $50 bucks, thats pretty steep for me but I see alot of you have them. Do you think they're worth it? Or could I just as well use a similar model like the Lotus Spectre for a cheaper price tag? thanks for the input
Walnuts

The Poet

01-09-2010, 02:40 PM

Though I've used an Xikar every day for a coupla years, and have been pleased as punch, fitty bucks sounds a little steep. F'instance, I got mine in a deal back then, with 3 red-dot Cohibas and "free" cutter for $40. If you look at deals with some of the big retailers online, you may find something similar.

BFallehy

01-09-2010, 02:41 PM

I actualy have one of the cheaper Xikar's, I realy like it. It is pretty much all that I use.
I got mine on cbid on a special deal that came with a couple of sticks. Alot of other people realy like the palio's (not sure of the spelling sorry if it is wrong) and from what I have seen those are great aswell.
But you can get a good xikar for about 35 bucks, it all comes down to what you like realy. :tu

bobarian

01-09-2010, 02:42 PM

Palio

The last cutter you will ever buy. :2

cricky101

01-09-2010, 02:45 PM

I have a Xikar and it's hard to beat the cool factor of the cutting action, but end up using my Palio more often because of its consistently clean cuts.

markem

01-09-2010, 02:57 PM

I used a Xikar for 2 years before switching to a Palio last year. I'd have to say that the new style Palio (they came out last summer) suit me better and in my opinion give a better cut.

I've bought my Xikar and Palio cutters from Heartfelt, which is also where I get my beads for humidification. http://heartfeltindustries.com/categories.asp?cat=Cutters+and+Punches

My everyday is a new style burl Palio that was a gift from Marc, one of the owners of Palio, but I also have 2 new style carbon fiber ones and an original in flat black.

My preference is Palio, but I have nothing bad to say about Xikar.

SmokinApe

01-09-2010, 03:11 PM

Get a Palio...

aich75013

01-09-2010, 03:17 PM

I have a Xikar and a Palio. I prefer the Palio. It's easier for me to use. The Xikar takes a little more practice.
I've heard of a few people getting pinched with the Xikar and I did too the first time.
Posted via Mobile Device

Tripp

01-09-2010, 03:20 PM

I have a Xikar and it's hard to beat the cool factor of the cutting action, but end up using my Palio more often because of its consistently clean cuts.

:tpd:

Exactly what I was going to say.

junkinduck

01-09-2010, 03:22 PM

I have a Xikar and it's hard to beat the cool factor of the cutting action, but end up using my Palio more often because of its consistently clean cuts.

Thanks for that post. I have been back and forth between these two. I love the cool factor of the xikar but after testing both at the B&M the Palio kind of kicks butt on the xikar. I like to hear from people with both. Most of what I hear matches your opinion.

NCRadioMan

01-09-2010, 03:24 PM

I like them both but I always go back to my trusty $2 Havana cutter. I think it cuts better than either one. :r

alley00p

01-09-2010, 04:01 PM

I actually carry both a Palio carbon fiber and a Xikar X2. I tend to use the Xikar more often, but I've found that the Palio will cut a larger RG than the Xikar. Since I tend to smoke smaller RG sticks, I carry the Xikar in my shirt pocket.

I like them both, and use them both some nights. Either way, they are both quality cutters.

I also have gravitated towards Xikar, especially for lighters. I really like their "No questions asked" lifetime guarantee, for everything they sell! :tu
I have a cigar box full of old torch lighters that no longer work. :c

Another thought is the Xikar cigar tool / scissors. Greg Dunn (Dunng) had put together a group buy for these a while back, and a lot of inmates really like this item!

Have fun deciding! :D

:dance:

G G

01-09-2010, 04:03 PM

I'm not qualified to say, cause I always use cheap cutters.:tu

cricky101

01-09-2010, 04:05 PM

I like them both but I always go back to my trusty $2 Havana cutter. I think it cuts better than either one. :r

I've got a couple of those and they are ridiculously sharp! SOOO much better than the typical plastic guillotine cutters for about the same price.

NCRadioMan

01-09-2010, 04:08 PM

I've got a couple of those and they are ridiculously sharp! SOOO much better than the typical plastic guillotine cutters for about the same price.

And they stay that way. The one I use most often is 3 years old ans till cuts like a champ.

icehog3

01-09-2010, 04:09 PM

Palio

The last cutter you will ever buy. :2

:tpd::tu:banger

marge796

01-09-2010, 04:10 PM

I have a couple of Xikars and love them. Not to mention their customer service is top notch! One of my cutters didn't make it through a long weekend and ended up in very bad shape. I called Xikar they said send it to them. They sent me a brand new one no questions asked. They will also sharpen them free of charge. So I'm pro Xikar!

Chris.....

G G

01-09-2010, 04:10 PM

If anybody has an extra palio they would like to trade for some smokes let me know.

Kreth

01-09-2010, 04:21 PM

I think Palio-Xikar is like Coke-Pepsi, mainly a personal preference. Both companies make excellent cutters and back them with lifetime warranties to boot.
Posted via Mobile Device

dunng

01-09-2010, 04:25 PM

I have both, but always go for my Palio! :tu

icehog3

01-09-2010, 04:25 PM

I think Palio-Xikar is like Coke-Pepsi, mainly a personal preference. Both companies make excellent cutters and back them with lifetime warranties to boot.
Posted via Mobile Device

I agree with Jeff that XiKar makes a quality cutter....I just prefer the Palio, but it is always best to try each (from a fellow BOTL at a herf, maybe), and see what fits best for you.

marge796

01-09-2010, 04:27 PM

I think you're right Jeff.

GreekGodX

01-09-2010, 04:54 PM

I have both (sometimes I think I'm just in cigars for the swag) and I like my Palio better. Just seems it is built better and cuts better. That said I really like the xikar scissors. They are the most compact and do just as good of a job cutting the cigar.
Posted via Mobile Device

Don Fernando

01-09-2010, 05:03 PM

I have both, but always go for my Palio! :tu

:tpd:

I got nothing bad to say about Xikar, it's sharp, looks cool and they offer top notch customer service, but I like my Palio just a bit better.

floydpink

01-09-2010, 05:21 PM

:tpd:

I got nothing bad to say about Xikar, it's sharp, looks cool and they offer top notch customer service, but I like my Palio just a bit better.

My thoughts exactly. Thought my Xikar was the coolest thing when I got it, but have never used it since getting my Palio. I might feel different if I had one of those Wooley Mammmoth horn Xikars someone was buying around here last year.

muhren

01-09-2010, 06:03 PM

I have a couple Xikars and the lifetime sharpening is pretty darn cool. I already sent one in and it returned ready to go! Only cost of sharpening = $4.80 for shipping. Good deal IMO.

Pauly Walnuts

01-09-2010, 10:57 PM

Thanks for all the preferences guys. I'm torn between the two because I like the cool factor of the switchblade action of the Xikar, but I just know that Id like the Palios sturdy design better in the longrun. But hell, I wont be able to afford either for awhile anyway so Ill have the time to think which one is for me.
Walnuts

druturn

01-09-2010, 11:19 PM

but I just know that Id like the Palios sturdy design better in the longrun.

There is no need to think of long run in terms of sturdiness, no matter what happens to your Palio or Xikar, you can get it replaced for free at most B&M's on the spot FOR LIFE! As everyone says, it all comes down to preference. I have no experience with Palio's so I can't say anything about it but I do love my Xikar Xi2 cutter. Ever since I got it nearly two years ago I have cut every single cigar I smoked with it(even including dozens of other friend's cigars) without a hitch. One side has started to stick a little bit, so I just took it into my local B&M and got it replaced on the spot for free. In summary, try em both from a BOTL and see how you like each. The Xikar takes a bit of practice but after practicing it will be comfortable and I am sure it is the same story for Palios. Good luck in your decision, you can't go wrong!:ss

elderboy02

01-09-2010, 11:25 PM

I use a Palio and I love it. I used to use a Xikar, but it seemed to wobble when cutting b/c it is hard to control when applying pressure b/c there are no finger holes like the Palio has.

Pilon

01-09-2010, 11:48 PM

I have a Xikar MTX Tool I bought for $40. Love it.

Roland of Gilead

01-10-2010, 01:31 AM

I have both, and I prefer the Palio slightly over the Xikar. They're both great cutters though.

-Mark.

Don Fernando

01-10-2010, 04:22 AM

Neuromancer

01-10-2010, 04:23 AM

Xikars are great... I have a few of them...also have a Palio...Palio is a shade better but they're both top-of-the-line cutters...you'd be good to go with either...

Wharf Rat

01-10-2010, 07:41 AM

I use a Palio and I love it. I used to use a Xikar, but it seemed to wobble when cutting b/c it is hard to control when applying pressure b/c there are no finger holes like the Palio has.

The easy way to use a Xikar is to lay it on the table. You hold the cigar vertically with the cap resting on the table and snip.

I have no experience with Palio, but have nothing but good things to say about my Xikar which I've had at least 5 years.

klipsch

01-10-2010, 07:44 AM

I own a Palio. The only Xikar that I'd probably consider having, would be the Multi Tool. But even then...the Palio does everything I could ask of a cutter...so there's no need to buy another. Sept maybe another Palio in Black. :tu

rlmedic

01-10-2010, 07:50 AM

I have the Xikar and love it! Its action became a little sticky after years of use sent it to them and they sent me a brand new one with less then 1 week turn around. I have a used the Palio and I have to say I like the feel and action better on the Xikar

blugill

01-10-2010, 09:22 AM

So the point is that you can't go wrong with either cutter.
Either will serve you a lifetime and will cut hundreds of cigars for you.
I settled on a Palio, still as sharp as the day I got it a couple of years ago.

tobii3

01-10-2010, 09:39 AM

I use a Palio and I love it. I used to use a Xikar, but it seemed to wobble when cutting b/c it is hard to control when applying pressure b/c there are no finger holes like the Palio has.

Nothing wrong with either cutter...unless you have my problem...getting your thumb stuck in the Palio.

Which is why I stick with a Xikar...no fingers or thumbs getting stuck!!

s15driftking

01-10-2010, 09:46 AM

Here's my 3 cents.

Xikar hasa lifetime warranty. That's a pretty safe bet. I have used one before and i feel that the double blades are so bulky that I always cut the cigar kind-of slanted. I have reverted to using a regular old single blade cutter, never fails.

I have heard great things about the Palio's but have never used one myself. It looks to me like it was engineered to make a good clean even cut.. .but the proof is obviously in the proverbial pudding.

Caveat Emptor... at one time Colibri offered a lifetiem warranty.... at one time Colibri was bankrupt.

pnoon

01-10-2010, 09:58 AM

I have a couple Xikars and the lifetime sharpening is pretty darn cool. I already sent one in and it returned ready to go! Only cost of sharpening = $4.80 for shipping. Good deal IMO.

Palio offers the same service. When it comes to customer service both companies are the best.

Not true!

If the blades of your Palio are not what they should be, walk into any Palio retailer and they will swap it out with a brand new cutter on the spot. Cost? $0.00

Yes. I know not every Palio owner has access to a Palio retailer and must use alternate methods (mail-in) but the cost is still the same.

s15driftking

01-10-2010, 10:01 AM

Not true!

walk into any Palio retailer and they will swap it out with a brand new cutter on the spot.
.

instant gratification!

Don Fernando

01-10-2010, 10:03 AM

Not true!

If the blades of your Palio are not what they should be, walk into any Palio retailer and they will swap it out with a brand new cutter on the spot. Cost? $0.00

Yes. I know not every Palio owner has access to a Palio retailer and must use alternate methods (mail-in) but the cost is still the same.

You say potatoes, I say potatoes and MCS says grzobly (or something like that) but its all the same Peter. What I ment to say is that Palio stands by their product and offers the same awesome customer service as Xikar.

pnoon

01-10-2010, 10:06 AM

You say potatoes, I say potatoes and MCS says grzobly (or something like that) but its all the same Peter. What I ment to say is that Palio stands by their product and offers the same awesome customer service as Xikar.
No argument with that, Ferdinand.
I just wanted to clarify that Palio does not charge and that if a retailer is nearby, one doesn't have to mail it in. I did not mean to suggest that Xikar's CS was not top notch.

s15driftking

01-10-2010, 10:18 AM

The word is Gznorbit

icehog3

01-10-2010, 10:36 AM

Nothing wrong with either cutter...unless you have my problem...getting your thumb stuck in the Palio.

Which is why I stick with a Xikar...no fingers or thumbs getting stuck!!

Remember, Michael Jordan cut off the end of his thumb with a XiKar....so caution is important whatever cutter you choose! :D

Don Fernando

01-10-2010, 10:51 AM

Remember, Michael Jordan cut off the end of his thumb with a XiKar....

shows how razorsharp a Xikar cuts :r

icehog3

01-10-2010, 02:16 PM

shows how razorsharp a Xikar cuts :r

Or what a clutz MJ was off the court. ;)

emtsmoker

01-11-2010, 05:24 PM

pnoon

01-11-2010, 05:34 PM

I have to say that Xicar is hard to beat. Yes, they can be a bit more expensive than some of the others, but with their warranty, i think they are great. The warranty is untouchable. Doesn't matter what happens or how long you have had it. Send it in and they replace it. Go for it.

Obviously, you are not familiar with Palio. Both products are good and offer outstanding CS. One thing Palio offers that Xikar doesn't is in store replacement. If you are near a Palio retailer, you don't have to mail it in.
.:2

CigarNut

01-12-2010, 07:28 AM

For all practical purposes, this is a religous issue... Both Xikar and Palio are good cutters, with good warrenties. I have been using a Xikar for years, and have been very happy with it.

I just got a Palio with an Escencia cigar sampler and am looking forward to giving it a try.

You can't have too many good cutters!

AD720

01-12-2010, 07:50 AM

I have both, the Black Palio and the Xikar xi2. I think the Palio is better constructed and has a much smoother action. My Xikar sticks a bit ever after being refurbished.

That being said it's not really an apples to apples with the Xi2 since the Palio was $40 and the Xikar was like $21 or $22. If I had one of those really nice ones I might feel differently.

Catfish

01-12-2010, 08:38 AM

Remember, Michael Jordan cut off the end of his thumb with a XiKar....

Been using my

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=206&pictureid=3466

for quite a while now. I gotta wonder, with all of the different sticks i've cut with it... HOW THE **** DO YOU STICK YOUR FINGER INTO THAT CUTTER INSTEAD OF THE **** CIGAR?!

:r:r:r:r

pnoon

01-12-2010, 09:09 AM

Been using my

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=206&pictureid=3466

for quite a while now. I gotta wonder, with all of the different sticks i've cut with it... HOW THE **** DO YOU STICK YOUR FINGER INTO THAT CUTTER INSTEAD OF THE **** CIGAR?!

:r:r:r

Gives new meaning to the phrase "takin' it to the hole". :D

aich75013

01-12-2010, 09:28 AM

Been using my

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=206&pictureid=3466
for quite a while now.
I have the same cutter.

I gotta wonder, with all of the different sticks i've cut with it... HOW THE **** DO YOU STICK YOUR FINGER INTO THAT CUTTER INSTEAD OF THE **** CIGAR?!

:r:r:r:r

He must have been using his finger as a guide to where he wanted to cut his cigar.

Smokin Gator

01-12-2010, 10:52 AM

I have both and like them both. Most of the times I punch. If I am in my truck and cut I use the Palio 'cause that's where it stays. If I am in the Gator Cave and cut I use a Xikar 'cause that is where it stays.

The Palio does cut a tad smoother, but they both do a fine job!!

druturn

01-12-2010, 01:37 PM

Obviously, you are not familiar with Palio. Both products are good and offer outstanding CS. One thing Palio offers that Xikar doesn't is in store replacement. If you are near a Palio retailer, you don't have to mail it in.
.:2
Not entirely true, all the B&M's around me at least offer free of charge, in-store, no questions asked replacement of Xikars. I am not sure if B&M's in other states offer this but the ones near Dallas do! :2

pnoon

01-12-2010, 01:42 PM

Not entirely true, all the B&M's around me at least offer free of charge, in-store, no questions asked replacement of Xikars. I am not sure if B&M's in other states offer this but the ones near Dallas do! :2

Point taken.

Being a die-hard Palio user, I am unfamiliar with how Xikar returns are handled. I was responding to the post that mentioned a cost associated with sending it in via mail.

What I do know is that any Palio retailer anywhere will swap one out at no charge.

NCRadioMan

01-12-2010, 01:58 PM

Not entirely true, all the B&M's around me at least offer free of charge, in-store, no questions asked replacement of Xikars. I am not sure if B&M's in other states offer this but the ones near Dallas do! :2

All official retailers are instructed to give them a new replacement in-store as a part of the unconditional lifetime guarantee. I understand Palio does the same. So, imo, you can't go wrong with either and it will come down to personal preference. I say buy them both! :D And try to have a Havana cutter. ;)

TheRiddick

01-12-2010, 03:22 PM

Palio and Xikar user since mid '90s. Last year bought Xikar Multitool, makes every other cutter obsolete, IMO, very compact, extremely sharp and cuts any RG cigar to boot. Seen them at $30 or so online.

gnukfu

01-13-2010, 02:17 PM

I have both a Palio and Xikar and the Palio is my everyday cutter...the Xikar I keep in my locker at my B&M...in case I forget to bring my Palio with me...

Goldie

01-13-2010, 09:38 PM

I have no complaints about my Xikar. I have the Rosewood Xi something or other. No complaints here. Plus you can't beat a lifetime warranty.

Roland of Gilead

01-13-2010, 11:21 PM

Goofin' with the camera...

http://m-mason.smugmug.com/Miscellaneous/Misc/01-13-10-007edited-1/764368944_5ajeT-L.jpg

-Roland.

Roland of Gilead

01-13-2010, 11:40 PM

...and more goofin' with da camera...

http://m-mason.smugmug.com/Miscellaneous/Misc/LU4C2104edited-1/764381339_rT2Jc-L.jpg

-Roland.

Roland of Gilead

01-14-2010, 12:01 AM

...just one more and I'm done...

http://m-mason.smugmug.com/Miscellaneous/Misc/01-13-10-008edited-1/764392683_mDhjL-L.jpg

-Roland.

G G

01-14-2010, 02:09 AM

Well maybe I will have to spring for a Palio soon.:tu

Kreth

01-14-2010, 06:06 AM

Got the new CI catalog yesterday with a bunch of deals on Colibri cutters similar in design to the Xi2. Two questions:
1. Does Xikar own a patent on the Xi2's design?
2. How does Colibri's warranty/CS stack up against Palio and Xikar?
I still think Palio should introduce a metal version of their cutter. Titanium, maybe... :dr
Posted via Mobile Device

Pauly Walnuts

01-19-2010, 07:11 PM

Thanks for the pics Roland

Wharf Rat

01-19-2010, 07:44 PM

CasaDooley

01-19-2010, 08:09 PM

They're out of business.;s

And now they're back in business but I don't know about their warranty situation.:confused:

Deputy

01-19-2010, 09:22 PM

I really really really like mine. But prior to, I was using cheapie 2 dollar cutters from my local B&M

Roland of Gilead

01-19-2010, 09:56 PM

http://m-mason.smugmug.com/Miscellaneous/Misc/macro-017/767361608_G9xdq-XL-1.jpg

http://m-mason.smugmug.com/Miscellaneous/Misc/macro-015/767360289_JeRFe-XL-1.jpg

-Roland.

theonlybear4CORT

01-19-2010, 10:00 PM

I love my Xi and slim cutters and lighters.I haven't cut a cigar with the palio but i have held one but it was just not for me.

rizzle

01-21-2010, 01:43 PM

Real men use their teeth.

ZJB

01-21-2010, 01:48 PM

I think the warranty is what makes them worth it I had a problem with my lighter brought it to the store they swapped it out no questions asked. I have a xikar cutter as well.

Benwoo

01-23-2010, 10:53 PM

The rivet fell out of my Xikar about 5 months after I had it. It had cut maybe 10 cigars. I sent it back, about two weeks after receiving the thing the spring broke in two. I don't think I'll be spending another 5 bucks to send it back, my Palio is working quite nicely. =)

Chris

NeuRon

01-24-2010, 08:20 AM

While on the subject, does Palio have a lifetime warranty like Xikar?

I have two xikar Xi's, and 1 of them was a little older, and needed a sharpening, so i sent it in, and 8 days after i sent it, it came back, and it looks as new as the day i bought it.. Cant beat service like that.

I remember i was in the same predicament years ago (not wanting to spend on a cutter), but as soon as i did, i was kicking myself for not doing it sooner..

CasaDooley

01-24-2010, 08:39 AM

mu mike

01-24-2010, 09:36 AM

Xikar scissors are fantastic. I much prefer them to the regular Xikar cutters, although those are nice too. I just prefer scissors - cleaner, easier, a better cut.

SAK scissors are great as well.

icehog3

01-24-2010, 12:57 PM

While on the subject, does Palio have a lifetime warranty like Xikar?

Yup, think it has been mentioned about 15 times in this thread. :)

NeuRon

01-25-2010, 07:30 AM

Yup, think it has been mentioned about 15 times in this thread. :)

Thank you Admiral Douche Bag :ss

icehog3

01-25-2010, 09:56 AM

Thank you Admiral Douche Bag :ss

Just earning my name! ;) :r

NeuRon

01-26-2010, 06:34 AM

Just earning my name!

:salute::salute::salute::salute::salute:

gbum

01-26-2010, 07:04 AM

using cheap unbranded cutter with no complain... :)
maybe someday...
who knows...

RazzBarlow

01-26-2010, 07:15 AM

I fondled another BOTL's Palio at a HERF recently. I think that purchase is in my near future. It's real nice!

CigarNut

01-26-2010, 07:23 AM

I fondled another BOTL's Palio at a HERF recently. I think that purchase is in my near future. It's real nice!This is really something that you should have kept to yourself -- or between you and the BOTL!

Fondling a BOTL's Palio is very intimate! :2

:D

RazzBarlow

01-26-2010, 07:49 AM

This is really something that you should have kept to yourself -- or between you and the BOTL!

Fondling a BOTL's Palio is very intimate! :2

:D

You make it sound so duuuurty!:r

opus

01-26-2010, 08:15 AM

I like them both but I always go back to my trusty $2 Havana cutter. I think it cuts better than either one. :r

:tpd: Best at any price IMHO

CigarNut

01-26-2010, 09:59 AM

The problem with the cheap cutters is that they cut well for the first few cigars, but the blades dull quickly, and you end up with bad cuts. That is why they are cheap cutters...

It's better to spend some money on a premium cutter (Xikar, Palio, etc.) and not have to worry about ripping up a cigar when you cut it.

muhren

02-11-2010, 05:32 PM

I was gifted a second cutter a few months ago from a BOTL (here I think?) but the cutter was dull...very dull.

I sent it in to Xikar to be re-sharpened and today arrived a brand new Cutter!

GREAT customer service and completely unexpected.

captain53

02-11-2010, 05:35 PM

I have a Xikar and have never been happy with the performance, looks great and feels great but does not cut great. Wife gave it to me for Christmas a couple of years ago so got to use it.

jaycarla

02-11-2010, 06:20 PM

I went the Xikar route and wish I would have gone Palio. They will fix dull ones I have just been too lazy to send it in. My problem with one of my two hasn't been dull blades, it has been getting it to open like it should, sticks bad.

They will fix it or replace it though, I just know if I had to do it over again I would do Palio.

gohstsmoke215

02-11-2010, 06:22 PM

Palio

The last cutter you will ever buy. :2

I second the Palio

Snapperhead

02-18-2010, 12:06 PM

I have 2 Xikars and I recently got a Colibri Slyce. I really love my Slyce and it works great and gives me a clean cut. I have used it on @30 cigars and it is still razor sharp. I know CI is picking them up and there is another style that comes for $1 when you buy some boxes.

irklak

02-18-2010, 09:34 PM

Just received my carbon fiber Palio.... very happy.

Too many cigars have been cut poorly with my cheap cutters in the past. I think it is totally worth buying.... Xikar is great too, but the Palio is fantastic.

marge796

02-18-2010, 10:19 PM

I've used an Xikar for many years, I have no complaints thus far! Their customer service is second to none. But, with that being said, I have also used a Palio and think it has a phenomenal cut. Maybe one day I'll buy one but for now I'm a Xikar man. I guess this will continue to be an ongoing hot topic for cigar hobbyist IMHO.

Chris.....