I always felt gear locking was a bit silly. If I already have the item, I'll join and play along. If I do need it, I won't even bother with the conflict. Know that I do have a silent dissenting opinion either way.

I've seen people make threads crying about when someone didn't play along with their pointless rules. The need/greed system is there for a reason. If you want to reserve gear, join a FC and run with them. They'll have structured rules in place. But PUGs with PF? Don't expect anyone to listen to your "conditions" in the end.