Quote Originally Posted by Bladerunner
I agree, if it's a formal situation I'll do it, but otherwise, it's not really my thing... I try to give a firm handshake but I don't really care in all honesty - and I could care less whether or not the other person's handshake is firm. It just doesn't matter to me.

Usually I don't give regular handshakes but I have no problem with it if the other person initiates it. Otherwise I usually just give some skin.

And I definitely don't think you learn anything about someone from their handshake.
I'd say that my opinion regarding this is about the same as yours.

As far as the way I do it, I guess it depends on my mood, and the circumstances - I really never stop to think about it. 99% of the time I'd say that I usually just do it about as firm enough as is necessary to complete the formality - which is all it really is.

When I was a teenager, my friend's uncle recovered from a stroke, and would grip your hand really hard, in a friendly way , like he was saying "See, I'm still very strong even though.....". For somebody of his age and medical history, it was impressive.

I think that when being congratulated, or under other special circumstances, people will usually shake hands with more strength and feeling. Most of the time, it's not important.