Yeah, "universal just means it fits in the hole" is the perfect way to put it... It's like a key that turns but doesn't actually unlock anything. Those cheap things just blast power until something gives up.

Honestly, what about the weave? I've had cheap silk where the threads were just too loose. Even perfect cutting just lets the whole thing unravel at the edges. Sometimes the material itself is the problem.

Yep, they are known for being heavy hitters. Definitely have your friend schedule a consult with them as soon as possible before he speaks to anyone else.