We usually streeeeetch the rules a bit with our carryons to avoid paying to check our bags, and have two flights w\ Ryanair next month.

What is your experience with them and carryons?
Their website and a few posts scattered throughout the internet seems to indicate that they're pretty uncompromising with carryons.

They even threaten a 60 pound surcharge if they catch you with an oversize carryon and make you check it at the gate!!!! WOW!! Has this ever happened??

WE'd hate to pay to check our bags since that fee is almost as much as the fare!!