Interesting, and completely valid point.
Most hobbies have “entry level” stuff. Your “maybe I won’t get too into” purchases that will allow you to test, shoot (exposures or projectiles), get out on the water or the road, and then move up and on. Ham does seem to be “grow into stuff” which few grow into.
I know only the most basic functions of my Icom HT, and I have no idea when my license is up for another renewal.