amapahunter,
I know of the thread you are talking about, only in name as I didn't get to read it before it was gone.
I think the difference if I understood it correctly was that this member was actually selling/promoting a product that he owns/makes/sells whatever. Using the forums to advertise/promote something that he is directly associated with? Like I said I didn't read it, but if it was removed then it's safe to assume that's why.
This is the reason why I will no longer "Report" on BowTech bows. I now have official staff ties to that company and it would be a conflict of interest for me to start a topic about how great a certain model BowTech bow is. I will answer any questions regarding the product , offer tips and assistance where I can but no direct "pimping" in the form of "Hey look, Awesome Bow!"

Manufacturer participation is always welcome on the boards in the form of support if they wish, but there is an advertising fence that needs to be sat on.

There are so many staff members, and anonymous manufacturers on the boards these days that many times opinions must be taken with a grain of salt anyway.

That make sense?