Just as a follow-up, I actually added an alternate email address of mine to the Mantis Militia a little while back. Got this on July 11th:
From:
jwest@mantis.bz
Subject: Mission BRAVO-one COMPLETED
Date: July 11, 2008 10:50:48 AM PDT
To:
jwest@mantis.bz
Gentlemen and Ladies of the Mantis Militia:
In Mission: BRAVO-one, the Militia Members were asked to voice their opinion of the Mantis Knife Company on the many knife-forums that are on the Internet. The purpose for this was to show that though we are not a mainstream brand just yet, there are PLENTY of Mantis Knife users (you) who are very pleased with their purchases…so pleased in fact that each and every one of you have decided to become part of the Militia!
Though we faced some strange adversity in some of the forums, the Mission was a complete success thanks to YOUR hard work and persistince. There were posts made about the Mantis Knife brand in ½ dozen forums on the web. Even some that I’ve never heard of... See, you guys really ARE a valuable resource for this knife company!!
The moderators of the forum did not like the fact that I asked you to speak your mind about the Mantis Brand. They called it “shilling.” But you did it anyway. And for that I thank you! You will be rewarded.
Though there were dozens and dozens of posts made. There were a few individuals who showed a MAJOR amount of loyalty. These three Mantis Militia Members are
Edward Reuther of Troy, Montana
Eric Baxter of Boyne City, Michigan
Ray Gilman of Fullerton, California
You three gentleman have gone above and beyond the call of duty, and for this, your reward is THE KNIFE OF YOUR CHOICE from the MANTIS KNIVES LINEUP.
Pick a knife, any knife…it’s yours.
In addition, there is a great article about all of us in the September issue of BLADE Magazine. It’s in the “Factory Focus” section at the back of the mag. Check it out…It’s a 4 page article and it talks about both you and I, and how
we are working together to create the most innovative knives on the market today. It seems as though THE MILITIA is gaining the attention of the market…look for other copy-cat companies to try the same thing in upcoming months…
Thank you so much for all of your help guys…Stay tuned for Mission: CHARLIE-one. Coming soon.
Have a great weekend everyone. Call me if I can do anything for you. (714) 701-9136
Very Truly Yours,
Jared West
Founder- The Mantis Militia
...I have plenty of comments, but I thought I'd let some other people have a go at it first.
As far as the folks saying "Jared apologized and he seems real sorry, I don't see what the big deal is, just drop it!" I honestly feel bad for you and your naivete. You must get taken advantage of on a weekly basis.
Of course. But they will publish a letter, if you keep to the point, keep it simple and direct. I don't know if I'd recommend BF members spamming Blade mag to get back at the Mantis Militia. 
