I personally never understood why companies don't sell all parts to a knife to the point where you could build one yourself, but cost more to do so.
For another perspective on dicking around with things, it's how many of us learn. If I didn't take apart my first few computers and ruined them like an idiot, I probably never would have learned to build/fix my own computers and consequently use them properly. I'm sure lots of people can say the same thing about many other things, like cars or guns. It shouldn't be a surprise that people who buy expensive knives and hang around internet forums dedicated to them can be a bit obsessive.
Just sell the parts to cover any expenses IMO, keeps everyone happy. I'm certainly a huge fan of the ESEE warranty but I don't see the point of bitching about people's screw ups if you refuse to take their money.
As an example: if I spill my drink in a restaurant and they decide to replace it for free, I would be extremely grateful. If they bring me the new drink while calling me an idiot, I would probably tell them to shove the drink up their rear. Wouldn't it have been just better to replace the drink for a price?
I suppose it's a difference in opinion of how business should be conducted; I personally like my customers to know that it's okay to play with things and screw them up because I'll be there to fix it when they need it and I do it with a smile(and a fair price).
And no, I haven't stripped any ESEE screws, just some Spydercos.
