I asked the question several months ago that you are asking, and got the same response. I have been told everything from "They'll made good boat anchors" to "Use it for leveling up the gun case". However, they are warrented for life. This report from the "Shooting Times" was also interesting.
http://www.shootingtimes.com/handgun_reviews/hipoint_100605/
I can't spend $400 to $500 dollars for a handgun. I already have a S&W 38 Special and someone recently gave me a Browning Buckmark .22. I am still thinking about buying either their 9mm or their .380. I just haven't talked myself into it yet.