A tire marked "BLEM" is because it's not perfect in appearance. It should not be unsafe because of the "blem", if it was it would be destroyed to avoid liability problems later. The tire should be "branded"(just like on livestock-with a hot iron)with the word BLEM @ or near the serial #. Disclaimer-I don't claim to have any working relationship with any tire manufacturer or dealer-I pass this info along because of past experience selling new/retreaded tires. Your mileage may vary because of driving habits,conditions, etc.

 

I bought the NANKANG Mudstar M/T's 285/75/16
I was worried they'd rub,but they work like a champ and just in the nic of time to, their calling for 8-12 inches of snow tonight LOL