5th - 8th cousins - several "shared matches" with one person

[Regorian]

A second cousin (our grandfathers were brothers) had his DNA tested. No male matches though some from mothers side.

Consequently, I see no reason to have mine tested. Surely, if any male matches are found then the surnames will be the same?

[diplodicus]

You cannot assume that you have inherited the same DNA as your cousin; just some of it. I have a 1st cousin who has tested and the shared matches are as patchy as the science would suggest.

My wife and her sister have also tested and their DNA profiles are very different.

[Lisa in California]

Hi Regorian:

I've not seen my brother's results.  It would be interesting to see what matches he may have and are they somewhat similar to mine.

I was thrilled with my DNA results and matches.  While it was interesting to read the "Ethnicity Estimate" I already had an idea of what it would be (however, there was one surprise).  But, I was extremely pleased to find a match to whom we suspected was a distant cousin - it proved that our research was correct and that we did indeed share the same gggfather.  I also found a couple of matches for my semi-brickwall ancestors so for me, taking the DNA test was extremely rewarding.

Thank you for posting, Regorian.  Now I am curious about my brother's possible matches. 

PS  Having just read diplodicus' response, my sister-in-law and her sisters were given the tests as Christmas presents.  Their results also varied quite a bit; I don't know anything about their matches.  My brother's DNA results show that he has a large percentage of Irish and a small percentage of English.  My results show about 1/3 Irish and a little less than 1/3 English.  I understand (a bit) about how one acquires their DNA so it makes sense why my brother and I don't have the same amounts and ethnicity with this DNA company.

Thank you for your continued interest and guidance, diplodicus.