Here is how I bought DS' Nook. I saved some money doing this but it takes a little while and a little bit of extra effort to realize the savings. BTW they sell refurbished first edition nooks thru the B&N website as well.
Went online to e-bates, registered, connected to B&N and bought an electronic GC equal to the amount of the Nook price plus taxes. You could use another site as well but make sure that the small print does not exclude the purchase of GC. Wait for the gift card to be delivered to my e-mail. (This took 24 hrs. but it was christmas time). I realized 8% in rebate (right now the e-bates rebate is 6%).
Once I had the GC code I logged back in to e-bates and again connected with B&N. I then purchased my DS' nook. I bought a refurbished from them. Again I realized an 8% rebate on the Nook. B&N shipped the Nook directly and I had it within a week.
Total rebate was 16%. At the time they were also having a sale on GCs (bonus GC with purchase of a GC) so I was able to capitalize on that as well, but those are random. Where as the rebate is guaranteed. It will take 2-3 months to get your rebate but you will absolutely receive it.