Careful there, Biggzie. This "California earthquake divorce" can work both ways, y'know. I'm sure the ladies down at the supermarket are talking about exactly the same thing right now...<img src="/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />

But regarding the rest of your post, now I understand your point and yes, it happens all the time. True, it appears that what you described was the case with these Streamlight Propolymers since only the 4AA model has the additional certification from the US Mine Safety and Health Administration although all three models are probably equally safe.

Here in the US, I think most relatively knowledgable consumers see, say, the Underwriter Labs' UL logo on products as some sign of quality/safety, but most people probably don't realize that manufacturers actually have to pay to get these products tested. I think most consumers think that the UL testing is paid for by the government, or that the UL is actually part of the government, so that if the logo is missing, the product must somehow be inferior. That may not be true, but the there's always that doubt.

For example, I've been meaning to buy a fire escape ladder for my bedroom for a long time because the front door is only escape route out of the apartment. However, I've only seen one UL-approved fire escape ladder. There are other cheaper, more compact ladders out there that appeal to me, and I have to admit that I'm a bit hesitant to buy them knowing that there's a UL-approved one out there although it's more expensive, heavy and bulky. The unapproved ladders are probably good enough, just like your friend's boots, but then again, there's that "but how do we know?" voice in the back of my head.