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Tradecraft Cigars has announced that its new Gladius Box Press will make its debut on August 22, launching first through The Wooden Indian, Tinder Box Haverford, and the company’s website before expanding to additional Tradecraft retail partners in late September and early October.

According to the company, owner Rob Blumenthal recently returned from the Dominican Republic after overseeing packaging and final quality control ahead of the release.

The new vitola measures 5½ x 52 and features a box-pressed format with what Blumenthal describes as a 109-style belicoso cap, giving the cigar a more oval-shaped mouthfeel than a traditional belicoso. While the blend remains the same as the existing Gladius Maduro line, Tradecraft says the new size offers a different smoking experience.

“I adore the Gladius blend, which I consider to be one of the finest maduro cigars on the market. In this 5.5×52 Box Press, the blend transforms into something truly special,” said Blumenthal. “The cigar is finished in what I call a 109xbelicoso cap-more ovalized than a traditional belicoso that sits perfectly in the mouth. This cigar has more body, more spice, more chocolate than the parejos. It smokes effortlessly. This cigar, in this vitola takes on an identity all of its own.”

Blumenthal also highlighted the pricing of the release.

“I am even more proud of the price I am delivering this cigar to the customer. Individual cigars will retail for $12.65 and the 10-Count pack msrp is $126.50.”

Tradecraft says retailers will also receive custom laser-engraved wooden display crates designed specifically for the Gladius Box Press release.

Gladius Box Press at a Glance

  • Brand: Tradecraft Cigars
  • Cigar: Gladius Box Press
  • Size: 5½ × 52
  • Cap: 109-style belicoso
  • MSRP: $12.65 per cigar
  • Box Count: 10 cigars
  • Box MSRP: $126.50
  • Initial Release: August 22, 2026
  • First Retailers: The Wooden Indian, Tinder Box Haverford, and Tradecraft’s website
  • Wider Retail Rollout: Late September to early October
  • Retail Display: Custom laser-engraved wooden crates