Hi-
Sorry for the multiple responses. I voted as hating third party grading but I feel that is a very strong word. If a card is graded I will not even consider purchasing it fo my collection. However, I am responding based on the way I feel about grading. I certainly recognize that some collectors prefer it, and might not collect without it.
I cannot really say grading, "ruined the hobby" but it has changed significantly as a result. To hear some of the comments in the other grading threads such as the number on the slab is the most important thing, is absolutely ridiculous to me. That being said, I am sure a lot of folks out there think it is ridiculous that I only buy raw, and wonder how many altered or fake cards I have in my collection.
As many folks say, collect what you like! As I have stated many other times I have never, nor do I expect to ever, purchase a single graded card for my collection.
Yours in collecting,
Alan Elefson
aelefson@hotmail.com