Dunno, Blade. When I moved here 20 years ago from Houston, you couldn't find a packer brisket anywhere. Only things you could find were flats and points that had already been corned. I used to have a neighbor who had an independent grocery store with a killer meat market up here: they would give them to me, I'd smoke them, and give them half back At least now, we see them in stores, although not near the prices or wide selection that prevails in TX. Choice were going for less than $1.50/lb. when I was down there around the holidays.
I also got on that $2.69 Costco prime before the end of the year: like I said, I don't know how they're doing it. All things equal, I think I prefer the choice (albeit slightly) over the prime: it tends to have a bit more marbling in it, and renders down to a smoother, more buttery taste, imho. Don't get me wrong, the prime is dang good, and the lower price has certainly shoved it to the front for me.
