First post, but probably an old question

[drew_goring]

If I was an everyday smoker, I would probably load up on JL Piedras. They are great buck or 2 a piece smokes...and get even better with age. Although if you live in the US that is not an option for you.

[rsanz]

If I was an everyday smoker, I would probably load up on JL Piedras. They are great buck or 2 a piece smokes...and get even better with age. Although if you live in the US that is not an option for you.

Hi Drew,

I know I haven't exactly been the best behaved noob on the board (nor the worst!), but how would you say these compare to some similar prices US sourced smokes?

I just placed my 1st order at P Ex for some Montes to see if they come through without attracting NZ customs attention (they're not illegal here, just taxed to buggery). If it works I might grab a box of these with my next order. But I can't find the JL Piedra brand locally to try some out and don't particulally want to blind buy a whole box of ISOM dog rockets.

Cheers in advance
Rich

[stjohnroe]

I would second the sugestion of the JL Piedras, nice full smoke at a low price. Not much fuss to them but great for an every day.

So far my favourite budget US smoke is the Sanch Panza Dbl Maduro line, tasty and cheap.

[bigsmoke]

Yes, I would second trying the Joya De Nicaragua cigars. As stated by others, there are two lines. I forget which is which, but basically the darker cigar is a little stronger. That is the one I prefer. Try them out in a robusto size, that is my favorite.

[sprangalang]

Welcome to the forum!

[rsanz]

Thanks Drew and stjohnroe for the JLP advice. I'll add a box to my next order.

So that I'm not totally guilty of hijacking the thread here's some sort of answer to the original post:

For a pretty strong cheap 'domestic' (domestic for some but not for me) I have enjoyed the cigar.com red label (http://www.cigar.com/cigars/viewcigar.asp?brand=278).

Also there are these which have been recommended here quite a few times but I think it all started with chefchris (http://www.famous-smoke.com/cigars/s...fm/inum/17243). Thanks for putting me onto these.

Additionally, for a mild smoke to start friends on this hobby I have had good results with the cigar.com purple labels. In fact I've ordered a couple of boxes for friends after they've tried 'em.

Cheers
Rich

[drew_goring]

Hi Drew,

I know I haven't exactly been the best behaved noob on the board (nor the worst!), but how would you say these compare to some similar prices US sourced smokes?

I just placed my 1st order at P Ex for some Montes to see if they come through without attracting NZ customs attention (they're not illegal here, just taxed to buggery). If it works I might grab a box of these with my next order. But I can't find the JL Piedra brand locally to try some out and don't particulally want to blind buy a whole box of ISOM dog rockets.

Cheers in advance
Rich

I would say for the price, they can't be beat. (IMO). Although granted I have very little experience in 1-2$ non-cooban sticks.