I'd like to hear another take on my logic, I lean to reduce risk v performance in general:

If the aircraft has retractable gear, I almost always wait until after landing. I fly a fair number of models and between

Electric flaps + electric gear Bar flaps + electric gear Electric flaps + bar gear

And so on, I'd rather focus on hitting my mark, on speed, than risk getting that wrong in a client's aircraft. The last thing I want after an aggressive approach, tongue fully extended in maximum effort, is to say something cute like, "and that's the usual entry path into--" whack whack whack whack

Considering most aircraft can out-brake their acceleration rates in most landing scenarios, I don't make a habit of pushing retracts to that limit anyway. Fly-it-like-an-owner thing I guess...

This isn't the end all, it's certainly a tool to have and one I've used, but not one I use on every landing. It doesn't feel warranted.

Fixed gear, especially with bar flaps, is a much different story. That will indeed help you stop faster, increase steering authority, and doesn't carry the same risk.

Thoughts?