I watched a twin land on the grass adjacent to the runway at Aldergrove with only 2 wheels down. The inevitable spin around the wingtip occured but all walked and the aircraft was pretty much undamaged. Metal aeroplanes and tarmac always cause damage but look good
I guess it is a judgement call based upon the evidence presented atthe time for which is best. We land skidded helicopters in an emergency scenario on hard surface to aid subsequent recovery, and knowing that the skids have shoes attached designed for such events.