I have a 15CDT, just like CrutchTip mentioned, that broke at the hilt. It is off to RMK for inspection.

They will see no lateral stress as that would be evidenced by stress compression of the lateral solder joints and possible indentation of the brass hilt and see that it was a more a shattering. They would also be able to put the two pieces together and if they fit like a puzzle, and the blade is dead on straight, then again, no evidence of lateral movement.

Just like the Capt, seems the stainless can be suspect and have a mind of it's own. Hence, cracking and such. That is to be expected in any manufacturing situation and is never indicative of a companies sum total.

Tom