Blade rub can be an issue on Stockmans but that seems excessive, I'm glad you were able to get a refund.
Case in one of those brands I stopped buying long ago. Very hit or miss quality, poor construction, and poor blade grinding. Case and to a greater degree, GEC, are boutique companies that cater to the faithful cool-aid drinkers and obsessed fan boys that can see no wrong in their cult worship items. At least GEC doesn't do the Elvis or John Deere collectors bull hockey. But then, I was spoiled by Victorinox at an early age, so I may be very prejudiced. At this point in time, I really don't understand how Case continues to exist.
+1Awlso, the sheepfoot tip seems to be broken.
Iikely rounded off on the belt grinder Whenever I come across quality issues with Case knives this is the most common problem. Some patterns are typically of very good quality and others seem to be used for training new employees