Aside from the shipping issues ,which some are blaming vendors for despite that its not their fault (, in most cases). Have you managed to miss all the lying, broken promises, slow responses, delayed/slow dispatch, bad customer service, lack of ability to listen to customer requests, etc etc. Issues that so many people have experienced with FT?
FT got a lot of hype because they were good at the things above and more..
In terms of flashlights they had very good prices. Still have, but nothing special compared to deals from various other vendors..
In terms of flashlight DIY they were very good. Having a lots of latest emitters, good selection, and fantastic prices.. These days lots of their stuff are outdated. And not that great descriptions and consistency either.. Where are the stuff they were supposed to get 5 months ago??
Inconsistency and product descriptions that does not match the products is a good way to describe driver circuits and various stuff... They were working quite hard at avoiding this, in the beginning..
Convoy flashlights were another reason why FT became popular. Now their selection is outdated in terms of emitters. People who are into those lights usually have to go to other vendors..
FT used to have a high interest in flashlights and everything flashlight related.. Not anymore..
Based on personal experience, Im not saying FT are bad, I have "only" experienced several minor issues, all which were handled ok.. But id rather buy from stores with less issues, better customer service, better prices, faster shipping, faster customer support...etc.. oh, and less affiliate links...
Take this as an example.. Buy it for 143$ after coupon code through "hidden" affiliate link. "woohoo, new light from FT.." From WB the same light can be had for around 130$ after coupon code, but no one bothers posting about it because its not even that much of a deal compared to other stuff...
Even FTs new interesting stuff isn't much interesting, which is why mostly people who are getting paid through affiliate links are the ones who posts about stuff.... Everything with (and around) FT have been going downhill for months... The current shipping "crisis" have just enhanced some of the negatives...
FT still have my attention when it comes to some items.. There is no such thing as a perfect vendor. Especially not among the ones who offers the lowest prices. But there are many vendors out there... No need to put all eggs in one basket..