Zen and the Art of Leathercraft....
What is quality and how do you, I and they define it?
As someone that also uses mostly craftool and Hidecrafter tools with only a few B.K. tools I know what you are saying. First this is only my opinion and it is colored by severe OCD ways and faults. I also work with tools as a living so I know the cost of a long lasting quality tool that will give consistent results is higher than say a dollar store or Harbor freight tool. That being said, For the most part I am happy with the craft tool stamps. The people I make stuff for are happy with the product. That is all that matters. But I do use the Hidecrafter basketweaves and border tools and I have some Barry King tools, basketweaves and geometrics. There is a difference in these. The Hidecrafter shafts bend. Some people say theirs have broke mine hasn't. Barry's stamp is doing just fine. So basketweaves and borders these are the stamps I wish to stock with the non Craft tool variety. I don't think my cheapness would ever let me pay $100 for a stamp though, but who knows. I kind of think that like any other craft/ hobby there is some snobbery. "ooooh look I got a Binford 6000 Xtreme Titanium waddle slapper!" I see that there is an improvement in the quality of the stamping with some stamps to warrant the increased cost. There is a reason that pros use them and it isn't to show off.
Swivel knives, you really get what you pay for. Having a smooth turning and well fitted swivel knife is oh so sweet after using the rocks for bearings tandy beginner model. It seems insignificant but it has helped my knife work a lot to get one with a saddle that feels right to me. Having a blade that stays sharp longer and is easier to maintain would be nice but I get by fine with a middle of the $road blade. Stop, Stropping and rolling is part of the experience for me so I don't feel the value in paying for the more expensive blade, again that is me.