I don't have a preference, and would just buy raw, but I also don't like to be surprised. With midgrade vintage online, at least you know that a PSA 5 should not have creases, etc. or something you cannot see / would be surprised by if you were holding the card in your hand and it was described as "EX."
There is a lot of subjectivity in grading, especially in the mid-to-lower grades, but for technical standards I still think the TPG's do a good job of helping you to buy sight-unseen. A 5 should not have creases, a 7 should be centered 70/30 or better, etc. etc.
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Postwar stars & HOF'ers. Cubs of all eras. Currently working on 1956, '63 and '72 Topps complete sets.
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