70-200 f/2.8 owners, do you shoot with or without the tripod-mount ring attached?

For those who own the EF 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses (either IS or non-IS version), do you shoot with the tripod-mount ring attached to the lens or not when hand-holding? Why do you prefer one way over the other (comfort, convenience, etc.)?

So far I have only seen other people leaving it on, whereas I feel it is more comfortable and, as a result, more stable with it off the lens. I suppose it can depend on many factors, including the camera used, whether or not a grip is utilized (on bodies other than the 1-series), the build, arm length, and hand size of a person, and so on.

I did see one other short thread discussing this topic, but I thought creating a poll could garner more answers and opinions; I am not looking for advice, but rather am simply curious, and this information may come in handy for other users.

I am excluding the f/4.0 versions because their tripod-mount rings is sold separately, and users may have different reasons for purchasing it.

i leave mine off as i feel it gets in the way when zooming

Very interesting question, as I can see both ways have their advantages and disadvantages

I took it off when I bought it. The last thing I need is more weight on that lens.

Always on, as I answered in your other thread.

I always leave it on but when shooting hand held I rotate the ring up so it's on the top size of the lens.

I leave mine on.

Always off, even when I am shooting on a tripod. My Markins ballhead will hold the 70-200 on a 1D clamped into the QR.

Always on. When handheld, I throw in into the 12 o'clock position to use as a handle in between shots.

Mine stays on, just rotate it out of the way when shooting handheld...

My wife leaves hers on.

Mine has been off since the day I got it.

Too close to call

Shoot with it on because i have the kirk photo quick release system and have the lens mounted to a quick release neck strap for easy carrying and swapping between the 100-400. Also give me a handle to carry the lens and camera by. Carrying the combination of lens mounted to body puts more unneeded stress on the mount.

I leave mine on.
For me, it actually helps me to hand hold the camera/lens.

Leaving the tripod collar on a lens that comes with it is a no-brainer for me. There's a reason it's there, to attach the lens (and camera) to a tripod. If it comes with it, use it...

Always off when hand-held (which is 98% of the time).