Yes, BS, people with my attitude are going to be the downfall of knife manufacturers as we know them, what with making them change their customer service policies to weed out moochers like me.
My brother was tracing a door lock (scribing) onto a wooden door with the tip of his spyderco.... a feat that wouldn't ruin the tip of a sharpie pen. We both looked at each other when the tip fell off and laughed.
The Kershaw was on the seat of the work truck one moment, then it wasn't the next. I obviously swept it out of the truck getting in and out at some point, and the knife ended up on the roadway, and eventually was run over by somebody during the day. The damage to the knife was OBVIOUSLY due to my neglect, and had nothing to do with the manufacture of the piece.
Spyderco wasn't willing to back their gear up. Their knife failed performing a routine task and they would not address it to my brother's (or my) satisfaction.
Kershaw was under absolutely no obligation to do a damn thing about their knife. My actions led to it's utter destruction, not theirs. But you know what? They replaced the knife.
I didn't expect it. I certainly didn't "complain" to Kershaw. I felt no entitlement, and was not looking to take an "advantage". But to my amazement, they sent me a new knife. And as a result, I've bought dozens more of their products, and not one more spyderco.
My point is simple... some companies will go the extra mile. Some will go that extra mile even when they don't have to. They may send you screws or a clip or keep your knife sharp for you. Those companies' willingness to do so may earn them sales over other manufacturers in a very competitive marketplace.
Some companies, however, will not go to those lengths. They'll charge you for screws, clips, repairs that shouldn't be necessary. They may lose a couple sales here and there because of this practice, and not care one iota. Similarly, there are customers who have no problem paying for these parts and services and that's fine too.
I have no expectation for free parts. I feel no entitlement to extra services. There are firms out there willing to offer them up, though, and I am happy to support them with my business. If this sounds to you like I am "taking unfair advantage" of manufacturers, well that's up to you.
My apologies to you if this "attitude" of mine is ruining your experience with the knifemakers of your choice. BTW, a hearty "your're welcome" for minimizing the cost of your next spyderco.
Jazub, well done for recognizing an anecdote and its intended purpose.