Dylan-
Sometimes these things come up, and some people you just cannot correct no matter how much proof you have, therefore it is basically a waste of time. BUT, we still feel we have to try for the dignity of the company we are loyal to and as shooters of the same. Good job for biting your tongue tho, doesn't make the situationany easier when you get in someones' face, even tho sometimes there is a fine line you must walk.
I do not try to actually run any companies down, but sometimes by pointing out fallicies it comes across that way. Maybe this person was like that?(trying to give the benefit of doubt here)In Merlin's case, they used to sell directly to customers here in the States, and ran into problems with warranty times due to getting pummelled with everyones' problems from every angle.(tough thing to do from "across the pond"
THEN they went through a pair of distributors that created a whole 'nuther bees' nest. They learned from their mistakes, just like everyone else does, and now they deal only with selected dealers who they know will truly put in the time needed to make sure their product is handled correctly. They are also no longer selling lower-end stuff, which eliminates alot of the warranty return problems they used to have because they are using the absolute-best materials and craftsmanship, period. No cutting corners to save a dollar, that is where alot of manufacturers run into trouble. I've seen that many times over the years.
I have dealt with virtually every manufacturer on the market at one time or another, and can tell you there are definately some that are much better overall than others to deal with. Don't let anyone run Merlin down as far as service or craftsmanship goes, anyone that has dealt with them knows they are one of the best. Obviously your source was just talking to be heard.
Can't help you with women or life either, I have a hard enough time with both of my own most of the time!<img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle> Good shooting, Pinwheel 12