RE: Blue or Nickel finish?
Garminator,
Similar thing happened to me trying to order a SS Apex. Only in my case, I ordered online and received a confirmation of the order stating the item in stock. Two days later, on the phone, I helped my Dad place an order when I was told a few were left. I never thought to ask if mine had been shipped but they were aware of my order then and used it to get the item number. My Dad got his, I did not, go figure.
If you don't have to have a break action, you might consider the SSKodiak Pro there for $259. You can easily get $20 off if you have a coupon, if you don't, just ask them, they'll give it to you. Stainless steel is awesome, if you can, get something in stainless. Good luck and sorry to here of the trouble.