A reply I tried to post to Anatoli's blog post.
I use nylon brushes for a couple of specific purposes,particularity working with inks as they are stiffer than sable ones, I and find them better for that than sable ones, thought they dont last as long in use. I have the Luxury of a first rate FLGS in Spirit Games who stock a good range of paints, P3 & MP miniature paints and brushes restocking regularly and being as good and far cheaper than the Art store brushes.
They also send regular container loads of stuff to Sweden. I however have had the same experiences with games stores as you, which is why Spirit Games is such a Gem.
Ginger