Updating the thread here fellas.
As Chef wryly suggested, I lasted a week. Then I tried another a week after that for the sake of science.
I found them both to be consistent in every way.
Unfortunately they are not *currently* blowing me away. Not that I expected that of a 6 month stick.
They're a *tad* tight and open up only slightly as time goes by. By the 1/3-1/2 point they're fine.
The flavor is there, waiting, and when I can get them adjusted (and probably dry boxed prior to smoking) I expect them to start to shine.
But that won't be for at least 6 months. See you in November, babies.