I've been writing a non-tech-related Wordpress blog for 12 years, with comments turned on the whole time. Akismet automatically filters out almost all spam, and pre-approval for first-time commenters catches the rest. I find the comments usually positive, sometimes helpful, and never abusive. I can only conclude that some threshold of popularity, and subjects (like politics and maybe tech) that draw the wrong kinds of people, turn comments into cesspools. Since I'm not blogging for money or fame, or about rage-inducing topics, I'm fine.
To me, blogging without comments would feel like being that guy at a party who drones on endlessly about his own pet obsession, oblivious to the fact that his "listeners" are bored or want to add something.
This has been exactly my experience as well. I've got a blog detailing how I built a small sailboat and the trips I've taken in it. The comments have all been either supportive or questions about some specific detail. I only get maybe 5 comments a year, but it's a good feeling to know my website has helped someone out.
To me, blogging without comments would feel like being that guy at a party who drones on endlessly about his own pet obsession, oblivious to the fact that his "listeners" are bored or want to add something.