Cartridge reliability

I'm not sure you can characterize cartridge makes by reliability. All the good cartridges have a warranty but, warranty service depends on the performance of the dealer and importer or company. I was worried with the disappearing stylus that they would say it was obvious damage caused by me and soak me for a replacement fee. Didn't happen. Not even close. I have probably purchased 20 or so records from them, but this was the first cartridge I ever bought from them and they immediately sent me a new one without making me return the broken one first. Consequently, if they have it I will get it from them (Elusive Disc) knowing I don't have to worry about defective items. 
I would be more worried about getting a cartridge that worked well with my arm, tracked well and had a neutral character. 

You're near Ledermann? What the heck are you doing here???!

I had a brand new Ortofon come to me wired wrong, but quickly replaced....had a few Grados with no complaints...a Koetsu with good service...In the old days, I had an ADC XLM, and Sonus Blue both fail quickly. I’ve heard bad news about Vandenhul... Most brand names are pretty good now.

What MC said. If you are local to Soundsmith, Peter is your BEST BET, bar none.

I have 18 ADC carts, 1963-1983, still tip top. 

1962 Empire 880P. Perfect.

1958 and 1960 GE carts. Perfect.

1963-2001 15 Shure carts.  Perfect.

Ortofon? 2 bad ones last 5 years. 4 bad AT styli.