What should i consider to be acceptable tolerances on production knives?

[2 shot]

The pivot screw is what changes the centering of the blade. Put it back where the factory had it, tighten it until the blade is centered, if that doesn't center the blade post back.

 

[bladeboss]

I know some people tend to be tolerant of QC issues, and the usual response is, It's a production knife, or it's only a $150-$200 knife...

IMHO that is part of the problem. Yes, they are mass produced, but when did it become acceptable for poor quality to be alright ? Granted, many of the issues don't affect how the knife will function, but that isn't the point.
When I buy a new knife, I expect the blade to be centered, the grind to be reasonably symmetrical, scales attached correctly, no screws stripped, and have an edge that will actually cut right out of the box...

Yes, yes, yes, 1000 times yes.
One thing that gets me is sharpness.
A company that manufactures THE ENTIRE KNIFE should be able to make it sharp.
It would be like Toyota producing the vehicle, but they cant inflate the tires too.