The tangs are typically quite a bit thicker than the channel in the res-c handles. So removing a couple thou of material is really no big deal. It is still very very snug when trying to reinsert the tang to the handle.

I agree about buying good tools. I too also prefer to spend a little more to buy good quality and be done with it. The only exception is buying cheaper stuff that are disposable and stuff that I tend to lose or ruin often.

You can find pretty decent used condition Wiltons for around 150 on the auction site. The surface rust don't bother me too much so I went with a used Wilton.