Let’s Talk “2nds” and “Clones” — Worth It or Waste of Time?

Curious to hear folks’ thoughts on factory 2nds and clones of name-brand cigars — the kind you’ll find from places like CI or Thompson. They’re usually unbanded or bundled, sometimes billed as “same blend, minor cosmetic flaws,” and they might be Macanudo, Punch, or CAO in disguise… depending on who you ask.

I picked up some Punch seconds recently. At first, I was pleased — saved some coin and could enjoy a couple sticks a day without dipping into the higher-end stash. They’re cheap, and the flavor isn’t bad at all.

But as I worked through the bundle, I started seeing more inconsistency. Some would canoe halfway down, others had wrapper burn-throughs or soft spots. Construction was a roll of the dice. Nothing that made them unsmokeable — just not the kind of stick you want to light up if you’re looking to relax and not fuss with relights.

Still, I get the appeal. They’re affordable, and for casual smokes or yard work, they do the job. But I wouldn’t hand one to a buddy and call it a Macanudo.

So what’s your take? Do you buy 2nds or house-label clones? Had any that surprised you (in a good way — or not)? Worth the trade-off, or better to stick with the regular lines?

Let’s get a good discussion going.

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