So what risks do I run without a backup?You can't make a nand dump until after you've downgraded. But once you're on 9.2 you'll be able to run Decrypt9, which will do the trick for ya.
I don't think hardmoding is an option for me, so I guess I'll just risk the downgrade.The other way to make a NAND backup without a downgrade is to make or get a hardmod done on your 3DS, but that can either be expensive (~$50 for someone to do it in the US for you), or risky, if you're not competent with a soldering iron.
A very slight chance of bricking, though I honestly can't remember the last time I've even seen anyone truly brick when doing a downgrade.So what risks do I run without a backup?
I recommend SafeSysupdater if you're going that route. It gives you the LOWEST chance of a brick though as FenrirWolf said, the downgraders available now as opposed to earlier ones are more idiot-proof.I don't think hardmoding is an option for me, so I guess I'll just risk the downgrade.
A very slight chance of bricking, though I honestly can't remember the last time I've even seen anyone truly brick when doing a downgrade.
Semibricking is the next possible hangup that could occur, but that can be fixed by using recovery mode to go back to 10.7 then attempting the downgrade again.
A partial downgrade could also occur, but that's fixed by just running the downgrader again to complete the downgrade.
And last of all, the downgrade could go off without a hitch and you'll be sitting happy on 9.2. Given how much better the downgraders are now compared to how they used to be, this is the most likely outcome.
Cool! I'll try it later. Anything else I need to know before I try it?I recommend SafeSysupdater if you're going that route. It gives you the LOWEST chance of a brick.
I recommend this guide to help you through the process. It will tell you what files you need and where to get them: https://gbatemp.net/threads/simple-guide-to-downgrading-your-3ds.407888/Cool! I'll try it later. Anything else I need to know before I try it?