Y'see, the problem with using Blender isn't so much the interface, or the complexity of it—it's actually a fantastic program once you learn the ins and outs of it! The problem is the fact that it can't seem to import .dae files correctly. Maybe I'm doing something wrong here, but I've been unable to use Das Donkey Vertex Box v. 2.2 OR Vile's Vertex Box simply because of the steps requiring the use of .dae files. I'd be "vertexing" like a maniac if I could get over this one tiny hump.
So to answer the question: If you want to vertex hack, buy 3ds Max 8. If you want to vertex hack for free, crack 3ds Max 8. =/
personally use 3ds max 9 i got it free from a class in school w00t! but i think some one made an import script for blender some where i'll try to find it. also u might want to delete the part about cracking it u can get in trouble x.x