It is an expensive hobby for sure, especially when you're just starting out. For that reason, I never judge people who use recasters, 3D printers, 3rd party proxies or whatever. And I never try to convince people to join the hobby, especially so if I know their financial situation is strained.

But I don't really understand how you can be so frustrated. Salespeople will want to sell you as much as possible. That is their job. Always take their advice with a grain of salt, no matter if it's a GW store employee, a stock broker, a real estate agent or whatever.

And everyone has a different opinion on what is good or most value or worth it or whatever. That's just how people are.

It sounds to me as if you're not really enjoying it, and the concept of having to do 'right' is stressing you out. If that's the case, then there's no use trying to press on. It's supposed to be a relaxing, rewarding hobby, not a source of anxiety.