I generally don't supply critique unless it's specifically asked for. In this case, Greg, you asked for comments and critique.
Critique is a tricky thing; it can make one uncomfortable, and sometime even make one angry, especially after having put so much of your hopes and dreams into a piece, whether it be a gun, a painting, a garden shed, etc.
I, for one, have not always received criticism well, but have slowly learned that it most often given in a spirit of generosity, and a genuine interest in helping me to see or improve my skills and my own ability to criticize my work as I move through a project. But you can't live in a bubble; so I continue to check my work with friends who I know will give me an honest opinion, rather than 'atta-boys', which do nothing but stroke the ego.
I find criticism to be a real touchy business, so there is small wonder that feelings can be hurt and tempers flare when there is so much at stake. As a suggestion, I prefer to meet with someone in person, and have them go over my project with me, so there is little misunderstanding. The written word is SO OFTEN misinterpreted, as there is no eye contact, no vocal inflections, no body language to let you know that the critic is really in your court.
