Just as the market for some jobs have shrunk with outsourcing, cost-cutting and now the R word, so some recruiters are finding themselves squeezed.  Internal recruiters may have to find applicants for 40-50 jobs and although external recruiters will be looking for less openings they could be competing with other recruiters for the commission.

So even thought my unscientific survey with recruiters got the results that the job market was doing fine and so were they, I don't think that is true for everyone. 

As a job hunter you have to remember that the recruiter works for the employer not for you.  If you don't match the opening then that's the end of the road until they get the next job to fill.

Although I have worked with some great people - professional, considerate and supportive there are rogues out there. 

Recruiters can be great but beware of those people who are not acting ethically!