A couple of weeks back I was able to attend an Ashton event at my local B&M. To be honest, I've not done much with Ashton, so needless to say I was quite excited for the opportunity to try some new smokes and maybe learn a little bit.

While the majority of the folks at the event were puffing away on VSG's and whatnot, I came across the Benchmade. Costing me all of $4.00 for the churchill I wasn't about to complain.

Today when I lit her up, I instantly realized I'd made a wonderful investment.

I share this with you all, in case there is someone out there like myself who hasn't heard of/is not aware Ashton makes a value cigar that smokes like a premium.

It was fantastic in every way. I can't wait till I get over to the B&M again, as I'll certainly be picking up a fist full of these gems.
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I've been itching to pull the trigger on a box of the toros...20 for $ 54.00. :-)
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Smoke what you like. I have not had an Ashton VSG yet, but the ashton I did have didn't impress me at all.
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I agree completly. The Benchmade is a great value stick, easily as good as smokes that are priced double them. I picked up a box of them a while back and have enjoyed them plenty. :-)
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Another :-) for the Benchmade. A B&M in the area here had an event just for the Benchmade. I liked it so much I bought a box. The may not be long filler but with the double binder the ash tend to hold together pretty well. In case anybody is curious the Ashton rep told me that they consist of remnants from San Cristobal, Pepin Blue Label and Tat black. I'm not too sure about the Tat black but the darn things are tasty. It will be a regular in my humi.
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These are a mixed filler made by Pepin. One of my go to value cigars. I also recommend trying the Tabacos Baez Serie SF.
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Then you NEED to try a VSG. One of the best out there IMHO. :-)
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I have really enjoyed the dozen or so Benchmades I have smoked.
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a guy lit one of these next to me at a July 4th party and it stunk like sh#t. I was really sick though, with a fever and everything so I don't want to judge these based on that experience alone, but it left a lasting impression I still can't shake.
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Benchmade are a very good smoke and an excellent value.
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A good cigar. I had a robusto on the way to work this morning.
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:-)

I actualy have a box of each. :-)
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I'll even give Benchmade two thumbs up, and I'm a cnob.
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Yup..one of the few NC's I smoke and look forward to smoking..very unique.
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:-) while the price is a bit much for me personally, the couple I've had are well worth it.
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I agree on a pretty good value smoke. I smoked through a box of churchills. The first one I smoked I almost gave up at the first 1/3, but they pick up after that. Maybe the smaller sizes would be better.
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i've gotten strong espresso and rich tobacco from the couple that i've smoked!:-)
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Last one I had was a long time ago, ok so months, and I remember it being good but not blown away. For whatever reason I didnt write it down or anything about it.

Thanks for the thread. I'll be revisiting this stick shortly.

On a side note. The Ashton Heritage series is a fantastic stick.
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pull it, awesome cigars for a small price
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I may try these. ALL of the other Ashtons are A1...
Puro Sols, Cabinets, Heritage, VSGs, San Cristobals
and Aged Maduros. All very fine smokes.

Chemyst :-)
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