Jason -

I think you are correct, I have seen that happen many times also - see the recent exchange between Lucita and Simon for an example.

I think people have a hard time being objective (no pun intended) about their personal telescope sometimes. Refractor lovers are a passionate breed, and will defend their choice sometimes as much as they will defend their religion or political leanings.

But I also think many times folks are just trying to be helpful. When someone posts something like "I have this much $$, should I buy this brand telescope", folks chime in offering alternatives (i.e. buying a used premium, etc) because they think in the long run it is a better choice - I think they are just trying to be helpful, but some people get offended.