PTravel nailed it, IMHO.

I'm 6'4" and most of me is legs. I feel I have no right to complain about the person in front of me reclining...it is completely his/her perogative. If I get stuck in a situation where my knees are going to likely get banged up, I've done any of the following:

1. Do what it takes to get upgraded. I'm a US Chairman, so my chances are better than most, but I've spent $$ and miles to make sure when it looked doubtful.

2. Ensure the seat in front of me is empty. This has involved all sorts of horse trading, pleading and worse, but I've worked out some decent deals when the situation called for it.

3. Tough it out. Yes I've finished trans cons with bruised knees before. I understand the issue. What I won't do is bother the person in front of me. I figure they have enough to contend with, what with my knees in their back and all.

What I also always do is recline my seat as much as I want. My back kills me if I don't recline and I consider it my right to use it as intended to help my situation. I won't complain if you recline your seat into me, despite my height. I feel that earns me the right to not listen to another passenger's pissing and moaning when I choose to recline. Continued pissing and moaning of this nature will be met with a polite explanation of my postion, silence, chilly stare, verbal warning, and a flight attendant's attention (in that order).

Some may disagree, but I'm comfortable that my stance is at least well considered and consistent.

Jammer