I've been taking Krav Maga for 2 1/2 years and it's the best thing that has ever happened to me. I started with little experiance in MA (Shotokan Karate). I came into class at 350 LBS and now I'm at 265 and dropping.
As for street effectivness. Last week we had an Oakland Police Officer (CA) use a gun take away technique from Krav Maga to save his life.
And about two month's ago we had a 4'11 125 Lbs female correction officer stop and subdue a 5'11 280 lbs inmate charging her with Krav Maga knee techniques.
As for feedback from most other Martial Artists who've taken Krav Maga. The most common are:
They've felt like they've been ripped off for the past x number of years taking (fill in the blank martial art).
They like it, because it is direct and straight to the point.
another comment I've heard, is that it improves thier performance in whatever art they've taken previously.
I know this is an old post, but I thought I should respond.
By the way check with
www.kravmaga.com for a school near you.
Just thought I'd give you my 2 cents worth.