Starting off by noting that I'm technically not actually flying anymore, and haven't for a while. Just to be clear.
I'll also note that during the years that I was actively flying, the vast majority of the time I flew "cowboy" and solo ...... meaning not at sanctioned launches and on my own. And yes, this does "imply" that I was flying "outside of proper authority", and I do understand and realize the implications and legal complexities involved. It is what it is (or more accurately, "it was what it was"). This also means that actually having any specific certifications was somewhat of a moot point. For the record, probably about 80%+ of my flights were LPR, and I was also SUPER careful, cautious, respectful, and responsible at all times ..... following "the spirit of the law", if not the letter.
But I did "go legal" and attended sanctioned group launches now and then. And when I did, I played by all the rules. And there was no question for me about getting my L1 cert ....... I had many projects that I wanted to explore that required L1 motors and such. I also thought of it as "supporting the sport" to some degree. As well, getting that L1 cert was so simple and easy, and relatively inexpensive, I figured "why not?".
When it came time to consider L2 certification, it was much more of a thought out decision. On the one hand, the challenge was compelling ..... both in terms of testing my knowledge (and actually passing the test), as well as managing all aspects of flying more complex rockets, at higher altitudes, with much more consideration of tracking, greater "risk", etc. And I also had some specific projects in mind that, again, necessitated L2 class motors. But on the other hand, I didn't have the time/money/resources to fly a lot in this realm, and I did question if going for my L2 would be "worth it". In the end, I went for it, and got my L2. For my actual cert flight, I went "above and beyond" just meeting minimum requirements. And true to my earlier considerations, I never did fly a whole lot of L2 class flights (again, limited time/money/resources). But I did "use" that L2 cert for plenty enough flights for me, and it was "worth it".
L3? Honestly, I never had any real desire or motivation to go there. WAY out of range for me with that time/money/resources consideration in play. And quite frankly, I've always had plenty of fun watching and/or helping others fly their "big boy" rockets (and spending their money doing so). Never really felt the need to do it myself. I'm glad others did so, because they ARE a blast, but I was able to participate in those flights (sometimes just by being there watching) enough to satisfy my needs.
In short ...... L1? - of course, why not?, L2? - ummmm, yeah I'll give it a try, L3? - nah, too much for me.
(but am I still cowboy flying the occasional whoosh/pop (or bigger) bird out in the lonely desert someplace? I ain't sayin.....)
s6