I've mentioned this before, but might as well say it again...
I received one of the very first NEA ARs from SFRC. I had a problem with the gas port, and it essentially was a bolt action.
I emailed Dave, and had a new upper in about 3 days, with a bonus hybrid brake and tac latch thrown in for my trouble. (which, for me, wasn't much trouble because it was really between seasons for me, and my AR sat unfired for a month before I could even try it)
He gave me some tips on how to reduce the trigger weight after I asked him about it (after I received my new upper) and offered to send me new springs. I decided to order the JP reduced power springs from Brownells.
I tried my AR with the new upper before the springs came in, and it ran fine, but I really hated the trigger. I still think it's a little gritty and a little long on the take up, but will keep it as is until I have 5 or 6 hundred rounds through it at least.
I tricked it out a bit with some Magpul goodies off the EE, and ran a few hundred+ rounds through it on the weekend without a single failure of any kind. I dig it. There was a CF guy that asked about it, so I let him burn a mag through. I can't recall what kind of AR he said it was, but it was one of the higher end ones, and he was impressed. I think Unregistered and flipincanadian were both happy with the way it ran for them as well, and might be on the list for one too. My gas key is perfectly staked, and all is well.
I think this drama with the shill account is unfortunate, and was probably some poor judgement, but it won't phase me. I think they are still a great value for the money, and the peace of mind of the lifetime warranty and great customer service will keep me happy.
Disclaimer:
I am an AR noob, not associated with anyone in the gun industry. I am, however, in sales, and make my living by providing good customer service. So, I can both recognize, and appreciate it when my expectations are met or exceeded.