New blog post is up:

[Rob G]

If you use the cigar auctions correctly you can certainly save some money. But it takes time, so you need to factor that in as well. So many bidders are willing to pay far too much, or get caught up in a bidding war, that it makes it very difficult at times to get things at a price that is worth using the auction sites. One needs to be patient and be willing to let someone else "win," recognizing that the same items will be up for auction again very soon. Except in very unusual circumstances, the cigars sold on the auction cites are readily available. So if some fool wants to pay retail or more, let him. Don't get caught up in the excitement of bidding. Set your maximum price before you start bidding and don't go over it, no matter how exciting the process becomes.

And don't forget those shipping costs. They can eat up all or most of your supposed savings. The shipping costs need to be factored in.