Hooten Young Expands RTBA into Regular Production with New 22-Count Boxes
Hooten Young has expanded its RTBA cigar, shifting it from a limited run to a regular production line and introducing 22-count boxes inspired by the .22 calibre round.
From Limited Release to Regular Production
Hooten Young launched the RTBA earlier this year during the NRA Annual Meetings in Atlanta. The company originally limited the project to 5,000 cigars. The partnership with the National Rifle Association shaped the cigar’s theme, which draws from the Second Amendment. The move to regular production signals strong demand and brand confidence.
The RTBA measures 6 x 52 in a toro format. It uses an Ecuadorian habano wrapper with a Nicaraguan binder and fillers. Production takes place at Tabacalera CM in Nicaragua. The cigar keeps its MSRP of $12, making the transition to ongoing availability accessible to a wide consumer base.
Updated Packaging and Name
The expansion introduces several changes. The most significant is the move to 22-count boxes. Hooten Young selected this number as a nod to the .22 calibre bullet. The packaging aligns the brand’s identity with the symbolism behind the RTBA concept.
The cigar’s name also receives a small update. It now appears as RTBA 22 Rounds. This change strengthens the visual and thematic connection to American firearm culture.
Five-count bundles remain available. Jon Carney confirmed that retailers will continue to receive both formats. Carney oversees Hooten Young’s premium cigar operations through Bentley Tobacco | USA, which manages the brand under a service agreement.
Brand Message and Intent
Norman Hooten, co-founder of Hooten Young, emphasised the values behind the RTBA project. He described the cigar as a statement rooted in American identity. He cited responsibility, discipline, and preparedness as guiding themes. He compared the cigar to the .22 round, highlighting trust, consistency, and purpose.
Boxes of RTBA 22 Rounds began shipping to retailers this week. The expansion marks an important step for Hooten Young as it strengthens both its production strategy and its message to consumers.
