: The time it would take to make your own and the cost of the bulk materials
: isn't worth the effort. Is $5 going to break your bank?

Time is not important because you are already in the shop waiting for 1, eopxy to cure, 2, glue to dry, or 3, inspiration to strike.

As for the costs of materials, they are made from scraps readily at hand from the kayak building process. (might have to scrounge for some copper wire scraps though)

It all boils down to the fact that they are 'free' float, and easily replaceable. Also that 5$ can be used for more kayak building supplies

YMMV
Tony