Originally Posted by FBinNY

I try to explain things in a way that people can understand the key points and make sound judgements for themselves. I don't know if that's a good thing or not, but it's the way I do things.

When I teach mechanic courses, I start with the basics and explain the key difference between brake and derailleur cables. Brake cable transmits force, so good tension/compression strength is the priority. Derailleur cable primarily transmits position. so good dimensional accuracy is most important.

The other way people can look at it is to assume that the folks at the major component companies aren't total idiots and have valid reasons for making two different types of housing, and use them accordingly.