newlifetaxidermy

I too shop both B&Ms and online retailers. Yes, the tax thing usually makes it cheaper to purchase online. However, there is a B&M in a nearby town (40 miles or so) where I have found better prices than at online shops, even with paying taxes. Its one of those places that sells cigarettes, chewing tobacco, etc. If they don't have what I want, they order it for me. There is another local B&M where I shop that is fairly pricey. However, they offer a rewards program where you can save up points and get 20% whatever you buy. It usually works out that I get the 20% deal on about every third trip. The main thing I like about this place is the selection. I can't think of a regular production line that they don't carry...Illusione, Tats, Pepins, LFDs, Viaje, and if a hot new cigar comes out, they will have it.

I have found that some B&Ms will give you a discount, but you need to be willing to make a substantial purchase and ask for it. I went in to one B&M that I only shop at once or twice a year back at Christmas. I loaded up a basket with well over $150 worth of singles. I asked the lady that checked me out if she could give me a good deal. She knocked 10% off and threw in a free Angelenos (pricey new Fuente product that goes for ~$14 per stick).

As for online purchases, I tend to stay away from "specials" at the big retailers. I have argued this before...some agree and some disagree. I feel that many times the "specials" are different than their normal production counterparts. I have experienced this with Pepin products, RP products, Alec Bradley, and others. I've had varying experiences from underfilled sticks to sticks that taste totally different than their full-priced counterparts.