While catching up with some acquaintances over the holidays I mentioned my recent plunge into the pinball hobby and my purchase of my first pinball machine. One of the people there commented "I have done some stupid things, but nothing that stupid." and I had no response for him. I was dumbfounded by his reaction.

Anyone else have odd reactions from people finding out you own a pinball machine or have a games room full of them in your basement?

I was really confused by his reaction because I had never heard anything like that from him. It's funny to see the horse discussion come up because he and his wife own a couple riding horses. I did not think of that rebuttal at the time because I was just shocked by his statement.

Thanks to everyone for your comments.

I have the same fear of sharing my board game hobby or my LEGO hobby. It's a shame because they are both very interesting hobbies. I am thinking tho that the risk of someone slagging you for them is worth the chance to find someone else who may share your interests.

Sure....

I worked as a gas plant operator while going through university. I know a "manly" joke when I hear one. I was initiated to their form of humor the first day I walked into the control room.

Not looking for sympathy, just sharing an experience. It's possible that in my excitement to share my new found hobby I was taken aback by his comment more than I should have been. That does not change the tone of the statement he made or his body language while he delivered it.

I started this topic wondering what reactions people got from others when you let them know you have pinball machines because of the reaction that I got and I thought it would make for an interesting discussion thread.