I haven't read this whole thread, but just having those things go wrong sounds like a sign to me.
I've had my Horton for something like 18 years, without a single problem.
That being said, some of these new bows are ridiculously priced. And I wouldn't drop $1,500 on them. So if a few minor issues are the price to pay for affordable.... I guess that's part of it.
For a high dollar bow, I would expect no problems. No need for returns or purchasing replacement parts.
-Jake