I saw your review but it was after we'd bought our two therms. My CDN was $60 and I bought it at a BBQ class I attended last year. I don't know why the Thermowand is much cheaper than the CDN since they could both be made in the same Chinese factory. All ThermoWorks therms are made in England. ThermoWorks claims they use better components and everything which justifies the higher prices but still it makes you wonder.
I got the Thermowand for Xmas that you mentioned in your last paragraph at this link I like the magnetic back and lanyard hole. Supposedly dishwasher safe to 150*F but will only be wiped clean. Boil tested at 211*F at 735ft. and ice water tested at 32*F. $24.99 for a 4 second read. Works exactly like a Thermapen. Just 1/3 the price. I did a review on it comparing it to the Thermapen on the thread "another Thermapen Sale."
-Kurt