...There are a host of reasons why; but somehow I think that posting them would just be pointless. ...
...The quality issues being my top concerns but there are a whole lot of questions/concerns about this whole fiasco that leave me scratching my head. . . .
Whatever, it's not my problem anymore. I may go looking for a Startac. . .
Agreed.
For me, even the solution/s posted seemed a little vague/arbitrary. While I can certainly appreciate "leaving it to the experts", not knowing exactly how my knife is going to be corrected left me a little uncomfortable about the whole thing.
Another thing that didn't sit right with me was actually addressed by Gianni. He had no problem posting an apology for this mess, actually saying the word "sorry". That counts for a lot with me. It matters enough that just hearing that word from him will ensure that sooner or later, I'll be buying Lion Steel, as I indicated to him when I replied to his post.
Sure, one can go through the procedures/mechanics of addressing defects, but that's only meeting requirements that are to be expected to correct a problem with product.
Making it up to a customer with a simple apology is a different deal, imo. I certainly didn't get any apologetic vibe while hearing stuff like, "if you don't want it, we got a waiting list, someone else will want it" sort of thing. Hey, that's just how I feel about it.
For me, it really is just a knife, but it's my money. I'm sure I can find something else to spend it on. When improved production versions saturate the market, I'm sure sales offers will become available for this model. If not, there'll be sales on other folders. No biggie.
Anyway, I've already emailed my cancellation & request for a full refund. As soon as I get confirmation, #109 will be available.