first off, why does it matter what we think is ok?

Second, if you think you're in control and you're not getting loaded on a regular basis, you can consider yourself pretty well off. I consider myself to have a problem and I usually drink 12+ drinks about 4 or 5 days a week. Now if 3 margs is enough to get you blitzed, then you should consider that too much. If 3 margs is just enough to take the edge off, then I see no problem.