There has been a few times I go to copy an audio clip, usually a kick, with ctrl + left click I wind up getting an individual level automation for the clip itself which I would LOVE to utilize but I can never replicate the result when I try, it always seems to be random.  Does anyone know how to use this?  I've been using Sonar for a LONG time and have never heard of this option, I would like to include an image of this but I can never make it happen at will.

That's the way it's supposed to work.  Cntl+left click is a quick way to adjust the volume of a particular clip by holding down the left button and dragging up or down the volume line.  To drag a clip to a different location, the cursor must be in the move mode.

Oooohhhhh my gwad, I have never tried clicking the body of the clip, I always use the header to duplicate the clip and never realized you can automate the volume like that, thanks.  I feel especially stupid since I've been using Sonar for over 10 years and have never known about that but always wanted it.

Me too!  I've used Cakewalk for decades and never knew this.  Wild  🎅