I don't know about the more current offerings, as cigar makers have really multiplied, in recent years. I'm a little out of touch with new stuff for the past yr or two.
For a very long time, a lot of those 2nds were, in fact, not 2nds. They were unique lines. True 2nds were pretty rare. JR Cigars Honduran Consuegras were lauded as true 2nds for many years.
I tried those a few times, and I'd say 50% of them were decent. I tend to like Llaneza blends. That said, I haven't tried buying any in many years.
Let's face it, the cigar industry knows what it's doing in regards to pricing.
I think if I were to open a shop, I would stay away from so called 2nds, and I would carry the Oliva Bundles. I've known a few shops who said that those were a big part of their business/cash flow.
If I was going to try a "2nd" I think I would try Carrillo (EPC). I don't know if they are bonafide, but he is a good blender.
Budget friendly, I like Oliva G and Padron standard series.