Hi BLB078,
I play about 200 days a year. Like Mike A., I prefer an end seat for the extra space, and usually play 1st base. The problem I have with 3rd base isn't the heat from hitting my 12 into dealer's 2 or 3, I can explain that to any doubters. My concern is when I double down on 11 or split aces, for example, and someone upstream from me decides to double down on their hard 12. Or they don't hit a 16....ever! By playing first base I get my shot in first. It really makes no difference but it does make me feel a little safer.
Kingfish