Pro-Tech Customer Service

Tracked down a brand new Pro-Tech Mordax w/Sapphire Blade (MX106-SB NEXUS) from an authorized retailer (the ONLY one I could find online in stock). Such a fantastic piece (first Sapphire model), but I quickly discovered the scratches on the blade (they're hard to pick up on camera). After wiping it with a microfiber cloth, I determined the scratches were most likely there before the PVD coating was applied, so I contacted Pro-Tech to get the knife/blade replaced.

After a few awkward exchanges via email with their CS, they confirmed what I believed: the scratches were on the blade before the PVD coating was applied. Of course, that means they can't remove them. So what about getting a replacement for the knife or blade? I was told they have neither. So essentially, they said I could keep the factory blemished knife or return it to the retailer. That's it. No other options, just, "Sorry for your bad luck. Thanks for being a valued customer!"

I'm still finding this hard to comprehend.

I don't want to go on too big of a rant here, but this is really disappointing to me. I own about 15-16 Pro-Techs. I really enjoy their knives, and I've only had trouble with one of their other knives (a BR-1 Whiskers, which was defective from the factory). I love buying USA made knives, but I'm increasingly frustrated with the QC problems I continue to encounter.

Right now as I write this, I have two other American-made knives returned to the manufacturer due to QC issues. One is a Chaves Dissident, but I'll give them a pass since they're new to OTFs and their CS has been excellent to deal with. The other is a Monterey Bay Knives River Otter. That knife had multiple issues. They received it three weeks ago and despite emailing them several times about the status, I've received ZERO communication back from them.

Anyone else having any issues dealing with Pro-tech or Customer Service from other American made knives?