Well, if even the experts can’t agree, where does that leave us mere mortals? Just comparing logical, reasoned, opinions and in some cases, real world experience, it would seem. I’ve never used an oiling device. Then again, I can’t state that my DIY chain maintenance has always been as timely and as thorough as it should be. And my chain replacement cycles have been right at the averages - even after all the buck$ spent on various brands of lube and cleaning materials. After reading countless posts, reviews, and watching a boatload of videos of various oilers, I’m about to give the Chain Oiler device a try. I figure anything that helps keep the chain free(er) of dirt and grit (on-road or off) and keeps a thin coating of rust inhibiting lube on the bare metal parts, oughta be worth a few more thousand trouble-free miles from the drive chain and sprockets. And even if the cost per mile is a wash, the peace of mind is worth something to me. I will say this, the average lube-in-a-can does (IMHO) tend to attract and retain a lot of crud. And I don’t see that occurring with an auto-oiler. That right there oughta help with cleaning duties. Just one more Humble Opinion. YMMV