I like the swap tool a lot but it's not perfect. For example, you can't claim more than one of the same item. But I still prefer it over the old way which required so much editing and re-editing!
I can't imagine the tool being a deterrent to someone joining the swap, especially when it's not even mandatory. If anything, I think negative and argumentative tone in the threads might scare off a newbie. So I suggest taking it to private tree mail for further discussions on this particular topic, especially if it can't be kept to a civil tone.
