I feel like part of the reason I am willing to spend absurd amounts of money on a rod is that I can get it fixed or replaced at a reasonable cost if not just the cost of shipping.

It would seem insane to spend in the range of 400$+ for a rod that one unlucky slip would be done for. I know guys that have spent 1K$ on a fly rod! Not me but I have spent 600$ and it made me sick in some ways but I knew it was a long time investment and I am glad I don't have to worry every time I am bush whacking with it into my secret spots.

So in summary, if the manufacturers want people to pony up and pay premium prices, they need to offer incentives and special services.

Otherwise, I will stick with the 75$ special rack rods every time. I know from experience that the difference is there (expensive versus cheap rods) but it isn't usually the difference between catching and not catching.