If you read my replies, you would see that I am not defending Nikon service. Quite the opposite.

To Nswer your question, if I bought something substantial with only a one week return policy, I would be sure to check it out before that week was up. Otherwise, I would accept that I would need to de with it later in a more complex manner.

So, I am not denying that you have a beef, but your situation limits your options to deal with it. Since you strongly hint that Nikon is not to be trusted, it follows that you might consider what you think is a more reliable photo equipment supplier.

Mick
http://www.mickklassphoto.com
or
Visit my nikonians gallery