IMO that 80% is a lot more significant than people think. You cannot make as good a shot with 80% crystal versus someone who uses only 20%. The words "at least" were key. Although some were better shots, they did not adhere to the 80% rule. Perhaps they should not have been accepted in that regard, or if they were, perhaps it should have been communicated to all the models that the 80% rule was being relaxed and people could redo their shots if they wanted.

My 2 gil on the matter.