Plus, you have the mid westers that say they can drive in the snow......still they meet our snow! As noted, about as slick as slick can be. 5-15% grades are not uncommon in the lowlands here. You need the chains to stop, more than to allow you to go forward.
Plus I have heard. Metal traction devices are illegal in some states etc. That would be both chains and metal tire studs. I can do with out stuff, but chains a re a different better animal to have.
Marty