The only acceptable retail alternative is to purchase from a major chain book dealer with a discount/preferred reader card from that book dealer.
If neither of these options is available, mail order for new comics is your next best choice. In my opinion, Your best option is to get a regular service with a big time mail order retailer. Pick the one of the big boys who regularly advertise in comic books. In the United States, I can think of two on the on the east coast who advertise regularly, and one in the rocky mountains.
The reasons to go with the big mail order folks are a) selection b) condition of the comics, and c) discount for ordering regularly monthly titles.
I personally do not recommend purchasing direct from the publisher or distributor. I have purchased comics publisher direct. The problem is that the comics are mailed in shrink wrap quality plastic with a thin piece of cardboard to prevent bending. The Post Office will do all right with these comics, most of the time. The problem is that sooner or later you mail carrier will be in a hurry, or a shipper will be rushed, and you can wave bye-bye to the condition. Check out the comic related newsgroups for horror stories on ordering direct from the publisher.
Also, I would recommend having the mail order supplier ship once a month, if possible. Or, ask the supplier to ship every two weeks. Postage is less for one big bundle than for a number of smaller packages.
These are some basic comic buying guidelines. A summary of basic rules for buying new comics:
1. Buy ONLY what you can afford. Comics are an entertainment medium.
2. Buy what YOU like. No one knows if today's hot comic will be a boom or bust five years from now.
3. Enjoy.
That's all for this week. Any questions or comments can be directed to kds@ids.net Any issues you would like for me to discuss I will consider.
Next week - the comic related newsgroups.
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