Huntnut, IMHO that's pure BS.
When a manufacturer engraves their name on a gun, they have bought into it lock, stock, and barrel - period. I've heard this crap for about 35 years from small shop owners who simply can't compete with the big discounters. What, do they expect you to believe there is any less liability or quality expectations because you bought it at Wally World vs. 'Joe's Local Gunshop?'
I worked part-time in a gunshop (during the 70's) where the owner, in frustration and total honesty, simply stopped stocking Remington and Winchester. Why? Because the local mega-discounter (believe it was 'Best' at the time) was selling new guns at his dealer cost! There was no difference in quality!
Dealers who claim 'less quality' are full of it. Look around for an honest dealer.