[jerry56]

I also agree...
Since this thread was started in 2016 it seems it was a worry back then too.
Blender is right there are a whole lot more options available now still kind of pricey in the 1/14 size but available....
I've only been doing this for about 4 years mainly because I like building things, I really like doing the old metal toys that I played with as a kid. Plus, they are closer to 1/16 so the cheaper WPL drive trains work perfect.
I can get a Tonka dump truck up and running in the $200 to $300 range, driving and dumping a bed full of dirt.... No I can't pull a small child around a show hall but I can play in the dirt AND I build it myself...It's not a detailed as a Tamiya but it doesn't cost 3 to 4K either. I would have never started this if that was my only option I wouldn't be able to justify the cost.
I think the entry level Huina and Huina clones, Diecast Masters, in the $200 to $500 range has brought more people in.
More events would be nice, there are 3 a year on the east coast (that I know of) that are in driving distance...