I didn't read all of the responses, but here's my $0.02 on most of the issues regarding "gadgets":
1) I've never seen the need for a laser on any of my guns. I'm a full-time police officer, and no one I know has ever used one.
2) A lot of people may not directly say that they want a piece of equipment to substitute for training, yet many people still buy the "extras" and expect that they'll automatically be a better shot!
3) In many cases -- mind you, not all, but many-- the extra money would be better spent on range time, etc.
As a case in point:
The very nice Eotech Holosights have become very popular with officers in my department for our patrol rifles (AR-15's). I think these sights are a great tool, and they've impressed me when I've worked with them... I can shoot faster with it, and it is of particular advantage to me (a cross eye dominant shooter) because it allows me to shoot with both eyes open.
But, herein lies the question: Is it necessary to have such a sight on your rifle? I say absolutely not! Some folks in my department have engaged me in heated debates, stating that only a fool wouldn't have one on their gun...
Yet, I consistently outshoot the most outspoken critics every time we go to the rifle range for quarterly qualification, even though I'm using the standard "iron" sights (our courses vary to include CQB type scenarios, speed drills, positional shooting, etc).
Thus, in my opinion, an item such as this sight can make a skilled shooter faster, but it certainly isn't to be thought of as a crutch to lean on! Similarly, I think a lot of folks lean on a crutch of a laser sight, rather than mastering the more critical skills of defensive shooting! Your mileage may vary, and everyone is different... But, I'm not rushing out to buy a laser any time soon