I consider even the tiny mod Bramel did bluing the logo on his Swarden to be a mod. It was definitly not intended to sound like you abused your knife. It is however the kind of thing some companies use to weasel out of replacing a faulty product. I actually thought you had done a beautiful job on your DF.

One of the great things about Rats and dogs are their potential for modding.
The comp finish Jerry has mentioned is almost an in house version of the most popular mods. Stripping that awfull coating and giving it a wicked cutting comp edge.

I thought you and that other incredibly patient guy who has been waiting 3+ months for his DF have acted like gentlemen during this whole thing.
Boy you and your friend would have felt terrible if he had broken it.