As a owner / opereator of a cigar store we are the "testing center". Many people come in and use our knowledge of cigars and try some sticks. That's ok. We have a very good mail order business to many out of state customers (that appreciate the care and quality- and can not find back home), and when you remove tobacco tax, sales tax and give box discounts (and are able to put together mixed boxes together) it makes a difference.

We are a speciality store and specialize in boutique brands (Davidoff, Ashton ESG etc) . Many of the brands we carry are contract only pieces and can not be sold or even available to the large discount companies......never mind a deep discount numbers. That being said just be careful........some companies sell seconds (advertised as premium line) and list cigar lines that they do not carry just to reccommend the customer to another "just like ------" cigar. And- they can not maintain the care and quality one gets at a local store that is passionate about their store and products. Either way, I look at the big guys as one of my great advertisers.