That really sounds like there was a fault in the metal. did you send a note to dan or patti yet? I don't doubt for a second they will treat you well!
Oh yeah, it was sent. I have no doubts that it wass only a fault and am still a loyal dog! My Scrapper has had the crap kicked out of it. Unfortunately this is something that event sharpening won't fix. If I were to do that it would shave the thin section off and would look like a chip in the blade.
I must say that it did eat the tree! Great chopper!!
JYD #13!!! "Nobody knocks off an old man in my neighborhood and gets away with it." - The Burbs