Actually, there was at least one case that I am aware of where LP did sell "fake stuff". It was a case where they had BC's that were exact copies of a legit brand... and someone got hurt diving with it and a lawsuit ensued. When the manufacturer got into the suit, they examined the BC and saw that there were no serial numbers on the jacket, and the power inflator mechanism was not theirs.
In the suit, one side claimed that they did not know they were not original product, that a supplier had switched them on them - and the case settled out of court for an undisclosed amount of money.
Perhaps this was an isolated incident, and it was about 15 years ago.
The big thing most point out with LP products is that for many of the brands they carry they are not authorized dealers, so there is no manufacturers warranty. An authorized dealer has restraints on them because of the "MAP" policy - (Minimum advertised price). That means if a product has a "MAP" we must show a certain price on our web page. Now, if someone calls us up - we can match any price - and extend a full manufacturers warranty... we just can't advertise it.
Actually the legality of MAP programs is before the Supreme Court now, and a ruling is expected in the fall. Some feel that with a heavy republican appointed court - normally ruling in favor of business instead of the consumer, the MAP policy will be upheld - but it could go either way. Until it gets abolished, we will have to run our business showing the MAP price on products, and folks have to call for additional discounts... but heck... that's ok. We like talking to our customers anyway!