^^^^ Good points, and I've often wondered the same thing myself! I only went DIY because money was tight (unexpectedly laid off that summer/fall), and I also thought it would be a good project. These last two years I used the Little Giant because a friend gave it to me, and it works fine for my one clutch per season. But I think next year I'll go fancier, since a few of my younger girls are officially ready to breed.
Pretty sure some people swear by DIY, though, and claim it's better than store-bought. Could be true, especially if you're the particularly handy type. Which I am clearly not, LOL.