Why not use a Box, with the product inside, and a plastic window in the Box to show it? Or, just have one of the items on display?

you mean a box with plastic in front like big Summon and Dragon Force figures boxes, or car model boxes?

those things take in a lot more space

and I agree
I really hate those packages too
but from a packaging and showing point of view they are quite good actually..

I get that the clamshell exists because as an anti-theft device, a way to show off your product, and a space saver but there comes a time when you have to realize that it's a safety hazard and it just pisses people off.

I hate that I have to get a pair of scissors after something and still have a lot of trouble getting my product. On top of that, it's even worse that I have to be uber careful in order to make sure I don't cut myself on their terrible packaging.

I am surprised no one has been sued over the use of it yet. Considering some of the litigation out there, this is one that just may deserve it. (j/k)

I like clamshell packaging, I have never had a problem with it and find it easy to open, maybe you are all doing it wrong.

Video or didn't happen.

For the low low price of $9.95 you problem is solve, introduing the Pyranna! (Who did they pay to brainstorm the name? I would call it Clam-buster or something. : P )

Anyway here is a link to their ad (don't click if you hate advertisement). 

http://www.pyranna.com/pages/as_seen_on_tv/index.html

However, I agree those clamshell packaging are a killer....

I've actually broken a decent pair of scissors on packaging before. Wii peripherals are all packed in easy to open (and easy to reuse) packaging though, so it doesn't bother me that much.

Scissors don't work on these unless they're heavy duty shears, and even then, it's better to just use a sharp knife. C'mon guys, do none of you own a decent knife? They'll slice that shit right open.

"theft-proof"

aaaaah I always wondered why they did this terrible packaging you couldn't open without an acetylene torch. Thievery somehow didn't come to mind because I thought if I was a thief I would simply get the whole package.