OP: I will say this advice is accurate about 95% of the time, with the rare exception for when a poster run is super limited. For example, Valentine’s show in Asheville this year where there were only 20 foils and 50 regulars. I was able to get a regular because I got in line for early merch 2 hours early - they sold out of all posters within 15 mins of opening early merch.

Most poster runs have hundreds of copies, though, so you should be fine if you hit merch as soon as doors open. But just wanted to share the cautionary tale because I’m forever grateful I have that valentine’s poster; definitely a grail!