I think you are referring to the OPTIMIZE FOR option, right?
That is the one. Yes there is a down side to it, as with most hints.
Unfortunately, many think that a hint is law, and have spent many hours debating hints, as well as showing hints that work and then not work because the optimizeer deemed that it knew better.
I have not worked with this one yet, but think it is coming with a specific issue. Thanks for the info of your experience.
Steve Jimmo
Sr DBA
“If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a Nation gone under." - Ronald Reagan