Hand cutting with a torch and then using a grinder to clean up is time consuming in itself not to mention swapping bottles, cleaning tips, running cords for grinder, etc.. and there is a cost for the consumables like gas, tips, grinder blades, etc... When you take all that time and expense into account you realize that there is certainly a cost for cutting your own saddles as well. Just a matter of which ends up costing more and which takes more time for your situation. Trying to manually do what a machine will do for you is not always cost effective. Minimizing fitting time and maximizing welding time can certainly help speed a project up as well.