I have noticed the issue with the blades being dull or not cutting out of the wrapper for about six months now. I did buy Harbor Freight blades and went through four new, untouched blades that didn't cut at all before returning to Fiskars blades. I looked at the Harbor Freight blades and saw big nicks in the cutting surface; poor quality!! My local sewing buddy has noticed the same.
I just wish Joann's online carried more Fiskars or Olfa blades when they have a sale. I've ordered them at least 6 times in the past 6 months only to be told they are out of stock.
Has anyone tried the titanium blades, and how do they hold up?