One of the things I most enjoy about hanging around the Yard is the lack of pretentiousness that exists here. Perhaps it's because the Yard hasn't had time to develop a culture that thinks that the way it used to be is better than the way it is now. Perhaps it's because the affordability of the products produced here discourages elitism. Perhaps it's because Dan & Patti are welcoming to newcomers and participate actively in the chat rooms. Or perhaps it's because those who are attracted to this place are more interested in supporting each other than impressing each other.
Whatever it is, I like it here. And while I realize that everything changes, I hope I never get to the point of looking back wishing things were the way they used to be.
i think it's a little bit of all of those. if any of them goes away, it will probably lead to wishing things would be as they were, which will only make it worse. a self perpetuating downward spiral like that would be a real shame. these forums are an invaluable resource, so much information in one place. for years i carried a chinese 440 lockback, then i came across the forums. it cost some money but there are worse ways to blow cash. better steel that'll last forever than $100 jeans, i say.
