Hey man - thanks for volunteering all this knowledge. I've read a bunch of literature, online stuff and videos, and I'm having a hard time getting going in bar situations.

I've always been naturally good at cracking jokes and building comfort, but I've always had a mental hangup about approaching. Hence, I do better in house party type environments than bars, but having moved reecntly have to build up my bar game. I got called out using a MM style opener on a 2 set:

ME: Do you think it's cheating to sleep in a bed w/ someone if nothing happens

HB: Do you watch the PUA?

ME: What's that?

HB: A TV show where they teach you how to pick people up.

ME: Are you using those techniques now?

HB: No, it's jus for guys, etc, etc....

I Think I played it off, but still wasn't up for asking a number and after realizing how many people are now exposed to MM am a bit reluctant to open. IF a girl recognizes something it defeats the purpose of approaching w/o seeming like you're trying to pickup. Any ideas on subtler approach methods or overcoming anxiety techniques?

The problem is these openers have been over used in the states. Try to come up your own material or change them slightly. There are alot of other less common ones out there. But i suppose now if you immediatly open them with a question like that or say the word 'opinion' alarm bells will start ringing. Open them with something else and then ask their opinions on something after. On these TV shows the openers are what stand out the most, common ones. If they dont spot the opener then it wont be a problem.

I feel you, thanks man. I have done slight alterations, but even these are recognizable. And I hate the bullshit ones...fortunately I've been peacocking a bit and getting approached by more women, so I don't always have to worry about it.

Im not from america so i dont know what its like. dont be affraid to use these openers, but if they have been over used and seen on the 'VH1 pick up artist' i think it would be wise to say clear of them.