What I read many times on this site is. ...go purchase 1 of 2 recommended test kits before we give advise and that's pretty much it.
I spent a lot of time behind the scenes, following newbie threads that came on here for the first time needing help. As I started to read about the results these people had, I purchased the TF100 and have had only one problem since then (due to neglecting to test regularly over a period of two weeks).
So I'm not sure these people are foolish. I'm sure most of them are fed up, do a Google search which leads them to post up the problem they have and the first, and often the only response is, go buy a test kit that's affiliated with what we do here.
I don't post too often based on my work schedule but try to jump in here and there. I will say I appreciate all the regulars who guide people to a better place that ultimately saves them $$$.