Wasn't going to post here until I read fishbulb's post.
fishbulb: Though I mean no disrespect in writing this, it seemed that some explanation might be necessary. Regarding "High Speed Tools for Hardcore Individuals", this might be a reasonable explanation.
Many of the people who purchase and use Strider Knives (i.e. Spec Ops, Military, Law Enforcement and others in related tasks) quite possibly may stake their lives someday on its use. To purposely choose to go into harms way for the benefit of others and the freedoms they enjoy each day is "noble" indeed. If you find yourself in a life threatening situation, every edge you can achieve, including "confidence", may very well be the edge that saves your life, or a fellow soldiers. It is unlikely that Striders are extraoridnarily different than some other makers "special purpose" tools, but confidence in your Strider, and belief in ones ability to survive the situation can and does make the difference. One must clearly have "mindset" to survive. This is a known fact among people who are professionals on the subject, of which I am not BTW, just a student of a few, as well as those who have been there, done that. If an individual finds that the Strider, its reputation, its worthiness, its fit for his/her needs increases that level of confidence, so be it. Gain as much mindset as you can. Did you ever see the movie the "Outlaw Josie Wales". Towards the end he and his "aquired family" are about to be attacked and are making preparations. Clint gives them all a speach about "remember, if things start to look bad and you think you might not make it, you gotta get mean, plumb mad dog mean". Another word for "mean", "hardcore" maybe? If a soldier fighting for my freedom is about to lose his confidence in an ambush, cause it ain't lookin too hot, the weapons dry and so are the mag pouches, I hope he grabs the Strider on his LBE and gets plumb made dog mean cause he knows whats in his hand, and who's behind it. Not to mention the fact that the issued gear to our forces is outdated (especially in bladeware) and was made by the lowest bidder. Striders are meant to open your box, "pry" open your ammo crate, or keep you movin and groovin when the chips are down. I for one hope every soldier who has one keeps movin' and groovin' because of its worthiness AND the mindset it provides.
I have Striders on order that are a little dated from the original delivery date, but know how the guys are overwhelmed and the market demand, exceeds supply (what a great circumstance for them, hooyah brothers, keep grindin'). Troy Webber has the best answer IMHO. If Strider makes you angry, seek other bladeware. Limited time in this industry has taught me that it is vastly different from pretty much any other industry. Waiting on a response from a particular maker, or your order is not uncommon with the demand for the product. Take your licks, lick your wounds, and decide whether its worth it or not.