This thread, where the OP there has deeper pockets (or perhaps corporate pockets....) than I and uses Firgelli actuators, made me wonder if there are any hobby-grade (read as: cheap) linear actuators.
I'm an engineer by qualification so I fully subscribe to the need for properly engineered and built components when it comes to moving heavy things safely, reliably, effectively and efficiently, but I do wish there was a cheap alternative to those commercial grade products, just to "play" with.