Is the Table Saw Guard Really Useful or a Hassle?

I came upon this forum thread about table saw guards. It seems that the majority opinion is that the guard is more trouble than it’s worth, even though the guard definitely enhances the safety.

This is after I included adjusting the guard and splitter when I tuned up my table saw.  I must admit that I have not yet given my new setup a good test.

I present this with no argument of my own.

http://www.theamericanwoodworker.com/forum/topics/table-saw-question