[teetwoohsix]

I think the good TPG's have helped the hobby for sure- for me, at least,they bring a comfort level to the card buying experience. I have to buy just about every card I collect over the internet, and even though the exact grade may not be precise in certain cases, if I am confident in the TPG my concerns with the card decrease.

I admire the veterans on this board who can spot fakes from all different types & sets, it is impressive and something that comes with many years of experience- but if you can't do that, and you rely solely on the internet (ebay, for example), you take a gamble with buying raw cards.I have learned that if you are going to buy raw, know the issue you are buying (as they say-"do your homework").

I like Matt's response about the pop reports, that is a great way to look at those. And who knows what's really out there that hasn't been graded....look at the recent "Beantown Find". It makes me think (and gives me hope) that there are many more untouched raw collections just waiting to be re-discovered !!!!

Clayton