There were way to many quotes....
I totally get that Destructos are not for everyone, and I get that they are not made in the USA, but not a lot is anymore.
All the info I found says they are stilled backed by Giant, but I also acknowledge that it may old. I will ask Chris when he emails me back about the crap ass bushings they use.
As for the "wolves" I am not scared or worried that the internet might grow teeth and try to bite me. Skateboarding is deeply personal and subjective undertaking, to be called out because you don't follow the "norm" is at a serious cross-point to what I believe is the heart of skating.
I ride blanks because I don't feel the need to drop $75 a board while I am relearning the shape/kicks/concave that feels right to me. I am on my 2nd shape, the first one I skated for 2 days and knew it was not right, this HLC is much closer, but I think I need a shorter wheel base.
This brings me back to the Destructos, the D2s have a lower stance, and currently, as I am relearning my Ollie timing and pop, I am having a hard time consistantly popping the tail before I execute the rest of the Ollie, I don't think higher trucks will help at all, and while I have looked at the AF1s, again, from a value proposition, and my skill set, I feel it would not be money well spent.
I value all the input I have received, even if it was back handed and sarcastic.
at 52, and after 20 years in the Army, my skin is pretty thick.
T